6 Powerful questions to ask that will guide your next career move.

Three years ago I came to the conclusion that a big shift was needed.  I was constantly tired.  I worked more hours than I wanted to.  And I wasn’t making the impact in my work that I needed to satisfy me.

I needed space.  Time to assess what was really important. Making a career change was one of the best decisions I ever made.

This is where a lot of people are right now

The last 18 months has given many people more time to think.  They’ve started asking questions like “what do I really want?” and “what motivates me?”.  Now, the answers differ significantly from how they would have previously answered.

The pandemic and the impact of what’s happened to others has driven us to consider what’s important.  When confronted with the fragility of life we start to think about maximising the time we have.

The mundane nature of the now virtual world means the desire for change has sped up. The considerations that were in the back of our minds have been catapulted to the forefront.

What’s even more prevalent in our thoughts is: what am I no longer willing to compromise on?

If you are considering a career shift here are 6 powerful questions to ask that will guide your next career move:

1. How can I create space and time for thought?
   It’s hard to really understand what you need/want when caught up in the drama of another role. It’s essential you make the time and space to reflect. How many times do you have your best ideas when first waking up or out for a walk?

   You can create this by removing yourself from your usual place of work. Take yourself into a new location and allocate time to slowing your pace before you consider your options.
   

2. What are my values?
   Values are things that are important to you. They are what make you tick. These are usually derived from life experiences and significant people in our lives. A role that aligns to your values will give you significantly more satisfaction.

   Ask yourself: What’s important to me in the way I live and work?  What drives my decision making? When am I most happy?  What makes things fulfilling?
   

3. What are my key achievements and how I did achieve them?
   Some people find this hard but it’s an important exercise. Reflecting on your achievements both personal and professional serves as a useful tool for what comes next. It also acts as the perfect confidence booster.

   Write down your top 10 achievements and 10 things you are good at. As you compile the list take time to really absorb your accomplishments then add to the list over time.
   

4. What’s my flex?
   Finding the perfect job is hard to achieve. However, there are good reasons for you making this transition. It’s about knowing what is non-negotiable vs what would simply be a bonus.

   Be clear on what you are willing to compromise on.  Categorise your role requirements into must have, nice to have and not important.
   

5. How can I explore my options before committing?
   Once you’ve taken the time to evaluate your needs and requirements assess your options.

   As you consider what’s feasible think about ways you could trial your ideas prior to committing.  Options might include part-time work, short courses or projects.  Who could you speak to that has made a career pivot?
   

6. What else is going on for me right now?
   Changing jobs takes a significant amount of effort. A shift into new territory even more so. Think about the work involved in applying for the right role and also in establishing yourself. If you’ve been with a company for many years leaving can be difficult. The emotional strain of transitioning shouldn’t be underestimated.

   Assess how comfortable you are on a scale of 1-10 in the following areas: home, finances, health and family.  If two or more of these are not going well right now adding a third source of stress may not be a good idea.  Consider the timing of your transition carefully

If you’d like help to explore these questions to guide your next career move I can help contact me