Taking Ownership of Your Career in 2019

Taking Ownership of Your Career in 2019 Taking Ownership of Your Career in 2019 1If you’ve resolved to take control over your health, your home, or even your finances this year, here’s another smart thing to add to the list: your career. By taking ownership of your career, you’ll set yourself up for success in so many ways, from being more satisfied in your job to even having better work-life balance, as well. At least, that’s the message shared in the Forbes article titled, “Resolve to Take Ownership Of Your Career- Whatever Your Generation.” While the information in the article is broken down according to generations (i.e., boomers, gen Xers, and millennials), anyone at any age and stage in their career can utilize these tips to create their dream career! Stick to the skills. More than ever, employers are looking at the skills that job candidates possess and how they can be applied to the job they’re interested in. So take stock of your skills to see how you can use them to your best professional advantage. If you’re looking for a remote job for the first time, it’s important to highlight those soft skills that can make you more marketable (such as your ability to self-manage, your knack for effortless communication, and your desire to be a team player in a remote work environment). And if you’re planning on a career change, transferable skills (i.e., the skills that you had in your previous job that can apply to the job and career you’re after) are what you need to highlight on your job application. Pay it forward. When it comes to your career, chances are you’ve had some help along the way. Be it a mentor, well-meaning friends who’ve recommended you for jobs, colleagues who were quick to give you a recommendation- even a former boss who vouched for your excellent work ethic- all contributed to the professional you are today. That’s why you need to acknowledge those who have done you a solid by doing something positive for someone else. Maybe you can offer someone who’s just entering your career field some inside tips on how to succeed, or pass along a lead on job that isn’t quite right for you to a fellow job seeker. Assess your career. No matter what point in your career you find yourself, it’s always a good idea to step back and do a career assessment. Are you happy in your industry, or are you feeling more been there, done that? Just because you’ve always worked in one field doesn’t mean that you’re married to it for your entire career. If you find that your field isn’t quite a fit anymore, ask yourself why. Maybe you’re stuck in an inflexible 9-to-5 job (but still love what you do). In that case, you might need to look for a remote job in your industry. Or maybe a part-time position would be better for you at this juncture. Or it might be that you’re looking for something….else. Going over your professional past can help prepare you for a fantastic future. Make your portfolio your priority. In an ideal world, many job seekers would like a full-time job with dreamy benefits. But for some (particularly older workers), landing a full-time job can be challenging. Instead of focusing on full-time employment, think about making a portfolio career instead. Create a portfolio of work that represents all of your skills, education, and experience that will make you more marketable for a wider range of jobs than those just found in your field. Can’t find a full-time job despite your best efforts? You might choose two part-time jobs that equal your desired full-time salary- but give you work-life balance and additional education and experience you might not have gleaned from just one gig. So whether youre searching for full-time work or a side hustle, flexible work options are a must for 2019. After all, being able to work remotely gives you ownership over your career- and allows you to live your best life, too. Wish you could talk through your job search and career questions with someone? SIGN UP FOR CAREER COACHING