PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Want a change? 8 questions to answer before jumping jobs

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Want a change? 8 questions to answer before jumping jobs

It's that annual time of each year - when job opportunities in collegiate athletics begin to surface at a high rate. As you look towards your career development and think of taking a possible next step on your career path, consider asking yourself these questions.


see orginial article at The Hiring Hub blog (by Marie Raperto)
images courtesy of blog.abugfreemind.com

Whether you are out of work or thinking of changing jobs, there is a lot to think about. Before making any move, think over what went well in your job … as well as what didn’t.

Make a list of every job your have ever had and then prepare a list of your major accomplishments. Which job did you like the best and the least? Of all your accomplishment, which one means the most? Now ask yourself:

1. Should I stay in the same industry?

Changing industries can mean a learning curve and, in some cases, starting at a lower level. But it can bring excitement back into the picture.

2. Should you look into new fields – a career change?
If you are unhappy or unfulfilled with the work you do, look into other things that are of interest to you. Your choice may require more schooling or training, but you may find what you really want to do.

3. What kind of organization do I like best?
                                                 
Look back over your career and where you did your best work. Was it in a large or small organization, a non-profit vs. a for-profit? A mom and pop organization? Do you like to play politics, be part of a team or work alone?

4. Where do you want to be in five years? Ten years?
Knowing where you want to be can help you determine where to move. It might not always work out in the short-term, but you must think about the future and how you will get there.

5. What do I really want?
Do you want a change because of the work or the environment? Do you want more security, less pressure, more life-balance or, maybe, a fast track and tough competition?

6. What are your long-term goals?
Perhaps you want to be a CEO of a non-profit organization, or perhaps you want to retire to Florida. It’s not too soon to start thinking of how your career will get you there.

7. Has your previous experience helped develop the tools to achieve these goals?
You may need more education/training. Is it time to get that MBA or enrol in some certificate programs? Do you want to do things in your retirement that need new skills?

8. What does my family want?
They, ultimately, want you to be happy … but seeing more of you would be nice, too. If elder parents are in the picture, maybe they want you to be closer to them.

You might not be in a position to get the perfect job this time, but don’t lose sight of it. Wanting a change is telling you that something is not right. So take the time and think about what you really want. Even consider that getting what you want now might now help you get to where you want to be in ten years. Long-term goals are not set in concrete, they merely help you plan.