What do you do if your Higher Education career is at a crossroads?

The question is: Why am I doing this? If the answer is money, status, esteem or advancement, then you might be on the wrong path. There are certainly better professions to be in to yield these items. However, if you want meaning, self-expression, challenge, fulfillment and variety, there's few better places to find them. The next obvious question to answer is: Whom am I doing this for?

What many folks miss is this reflective step. It’s great to start looking to see what positions are available, but make sure you spend time thinking about what you actually want to do instead of only thinking about what makes sense on paper. Highly recommend the book Designing Your Life (Burnett & Evans) or Working Identity (Ibarra).

At a career crossroads in higher education, the value of seeking advice cannot be overstated. Mentors, colleagues, or even former supervisors can offer a wealth of experience that might illuminate paths you hadn’t considered. Their guidance often comes from navigating similar decisions, making their insights particularly relevant. Moreover, they can open doors to new networks or opportunities within the field. By discussing your situation with those who have walked similar paths, you gain not only advice but also potential allies who can support your next steps in your career journey.

One of the more frustrating aspects of employment in higher education can be the sense of being locked into a single vertical. Because of the specialized nature of so many higher education roles, it's sometimes hard to see other opportunities that your universal and transferrable skills might qualify you for. Working with a mentor, or even seeking advice from leaders in other verticals can help you identify where your strengths lie, as well as how they might apply to working in a new area of higher education.

When at a career crossroads in higher education, it’s essential to explore all possible avenues. This might mean pursuing further education, such as advanced degrees or certifications, to enhance your qualifications and open up new possibilities. Additionally, consider lateral moves within your current institution or transitions to roles that better align with your evolving interests. The landscape of higher education is broad, with countless niches and specializations. By researching these areas, you can uncover opportunities that may not have been on your radar, potentially leading to a more fulfilling career path.

If your Higher Education career is at a crossroads, start by evaluating your interests and strengths. Research various roles or paths within the field, such as administration, research, or teaching. Network with colleagues and mentors to gain insights and advice. Consider further education or certifications if needed. Reflect on your long-term goals and what you enjoy most about your current role. Exploring new opportunities, staying open to change, and setting clear objectives can help you navigate this pivotal moment and find a fulfilling direction.

In higher education, things are always changing, so it's important to keep your skills up to date. Take a look at where you might need to grow and consider taking some courses or workshops to fill in those gaps. Staying on top of the latest trends and technologies not only makes your resume stand out but also gives you new tools to succeed in your career. Committing to continuous learning shows that you’re serious about your growth and makes you more adaptable to whatever changes come your way.

Continuous learning and skill development should already be a part of your personal development plan, but in higher education it becomes even more critical. With the looming impact of the enrollment cliff upon us, expanding your skillsets and expertise through ongoing learning, technical skill enhancement, and professional development can give you an edge as an innovator when new opportunities arise. Universities aren't just looking for skilled talent - they're looking for people with new ideas and innovative approaches to help them grow enrollment and overcome the challenges in higher education today.

If your Higher Education career is at a crossroads, enhance your networking by attending industry conferences, seminars, and workshops to meet new people. Join professional associations and engage in online forums related to your field. Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, and peers for advice and potential opportunities. Use LinkedIn to connect with professionals and participate in discussions. Follow up with new contacts and maintain relationships by sharing updates and offering support. Actively expanding your network can open doors to new opportunities and career paths.

When I entered the education sector in 2010, I did not have any previous higher education work experience. Although, I started in corporate sales and student recruitment, my ultimate wish is to be an academic. Leveraging on my past corporate experience, I jumped on any opportunity to conduct classes as guest speakers and exposed myself to speaking and teaching students. I managed to be transferred to be a lecturer, seeing how I could better move up my career, I focused on getting good student reviews, this got me promoted a few times by agreeing to take upon bigger tasks, till I became a CEO of the same institution that hired me. I believe that planning your own career path is important, and taking up challenges beyond your role is key.

Knowing where you're going can be difficult in higher education, as your path may change based on a variety of factors. Setting short term goals around professional development, shadowing, and being mentored can help you prepare for those long-term goals you have. You need to be precise - reflect on your areas of strength and expertise and focus 20% of your short-term goals on polishing those while spending the other 80% of your short-term goals on building up skills and areas where you're weakest. Coming back to reevaluate where you are every 6 months will keep you moving towards career readiness for those long-term career goals you've set for yourself!