The start of a new year often signals new beginnings for many of us. 2012 will bring New Year's resolutions and reassessments of our current positions in life, often with a focus on a career change.
A new year is a perfect time to address how content we are with our current situations. Possibly it is time to look at ways to further our present career path, or maybe even time for a major change of direction.
If you were considering getting into something new, ask yourself whether you are truly happy in your current job. Are you struggling to motivate yourself each day? Do you find yourself complaining about your day to family and friends? Do you wish you could be doing the job that someone else is doing? Maybe it is time to begin looking at some new career options.
Career Services has come up with five top tips to assist those looking to maintain, develop or change their careers completely in 2012. Remember, change doesn't need to be a bad thing — in fact it can bring about new challenges, exciting opportunities and immense satisfaction; many people will go through several career changes in their lifetime.
1. Figure out who you are, and what you want
Before you can make any decisions about your career, you need to establish what you want from work and from life. Explore everything about yourself; from your personality and interests, to your skills and qualities.
2. Stress buster
If you are feeling the stress at work but do not wish to move on to something new, there are a few small things you can do to help handle the things that stress you out. Try turning your phone off when you are overloaded and making a to-do list. Although it might seem simple, it is often doing the simple things that can help to make all the difference.
3. Establishing if it is time for change
If you are unhappy in your current job, the first thing you need to do is determine the source of what is causing this discontent. You need to decide whether you are unhappy with the job or how well your skills are used in the role, or whether it is simply that you don't get along with your boss or colleagues. Once this has been established, you will have a clearer view as to what it is you need to adjust.
It may be that you have been out of the workforce for a while and it's time to get back into it. There is no need to be alarmed that you may have forgotten your skills, in some cases you will have more than gained. Also, look at how you might refresh other skills you haven't used for a while.
4. Plan and act
Once you have decided on what you are going to do — make it happen! It can sometimes be the hardest thing to make it happen. It is important to create a goal, and then decide how you plan to reach it. Goals and visions are important as they act as a guide that will keep you focused. Make a plan that you know you will stick to, but at the same time be ready to modify it and follow unexpected opportunities.
5. Explore the job market
Once you know what sort of career you would like to move into, make sure you do your research in scoping out the job market. Start by talking to people about your chosen profession — get advice from people in the industry and begin networking.
The worst thing to do is to look for a job in a hurry and pick the first one that appears. Remember it is not a race — it will serve you better in the long-run to take your time and avoid rushing into anything. It is essential to take your time and allow yourself to find the opportunity that best fits with your goals, vision and skill set.
Use the new year to address the problems and start making a positive change. Making decisions about your career does not have to be a daunting task; you just need a helping hand to point you in the right direction and help you validate your career goals for 2011.
Article provided by Career Services. Help can be found on the Career Services website www.careers.govt.nz, where you can also chat online with one of our webchat guidance staff to get independent advice to help you with your career planning. Otherwise, you can free phone 0800 222 733 to speak to a representative.
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