Career Shift

Taking chances with one’s career is the last thing on people’s mind these days and the general tendency is to hold on to the jobs we have and look out for any change only after things improve.

In these days of job uncertainty and economic downturn, this might be the wisest thing to do but what if you get indications that your company’s future is uncertain or you could face a salary cut or even be laid off. Not a nice notion surely and it makes sense to have a backup plan in place in case something like this happens.

On the flip side, this might be the best time to consider actions and decisions that might be at other times considered as career risks, yet they may be worth taking and you could actually benefit from them eventually. But these risks have to be taken with caution.

One option is to go for further education or pursue a course. This can be a good choice especially for those who have taken up a career right after college and feel that enhancing their qualification through a higher degree or an added qualification will increase their prospects.

Before deciding to pursue a course consider the purpose, whether it is to change your career path or for further growth. The choice of course depends on your motives. If going further up in your present job requires additional knowledge / specialization, then you can pursue a course that will help you handle, for instance, managerial functions then you need to pursue a management course. Such a course will help you look for jobs outside your present area and widen your options too.

Pursuing a course need not be at the cost of leaving your present job, unless you have decided on a full-time course. You can also talk to experts and seniors in your field to get more information. This will help you make the right decision. Some of us may be in jobs that do not fully utilize our skills and talents or do not cater to our true passions and interests. But we are still stuck to it, because of its familiarity and our sense of comfort in that particular work environment. If your future in the job seems ambiguous, then this may be the right opportunity to look for another one. This can provide the motivation to get out of your ‘cushy’ job. Do a review of your priorities and goals and search for a job that makes you truly happy.

The choice to be on one’s own, or to start a business is another option you can choose. Of course, you will have to let go of the financial security and the other benefits that working for a company offers. But if you have saved enough money and have the right contacts to help you in your venture, then it could be a risk worth taking. You can use this time to build your business and be ready when the economy picks up.

Uncertainty can provide the right impetus to revamp your career, know the right way to do it. A proactive approach in considering options and working on them even before a job loss stares us in the face can help us get ahead. Bookmark this on Delicious