What do you do if you're considering a career change and need guidance?

I may be a bit "old school", but the words of Stephen R. Covey come to mind. Habit # 2 - Begin with the End in Mind...Identify your roles and goals; understand your ultimate destination; determine your center. What are your long-term goals and what do you want to accomplish? What image or vision do you have for your life as a whole? Those are important questions to answer before truly making a career change. At the core of it all...your career must be aligned with your values, your purpose, your WHY.

As you're assessing your goals, I always encourage my clients to zoom out to the big-picture level and think through their life goals first. Why? Because your career lives within the context of your overall life. So, start there and then zoom in to your career goals. Without that step, you run the risk of making career decisions based on the financial aspect alone which could lead you into a professional situation that conflicts with the other important aspects of your life- your family, your stress and health, your time, your sleep, and overall energy level. But when you start with your life goals, you're better able to identify the pieces that are important to you in your career and set goals with those key factors in mind.

Build on Your Purpose The dialog around purpose seems to be more confusing now than ever, when it should be simple. You don’t “find” your purpose, you build it like a wall, stone upon stone. Start with a candid look at your real strengths. That’s the first stone. What are the things you’re gifted with a talent or ability to do? Then add your values - the spiritual code by which you live and work. That’s the next stone. Now think about who you are most drawn to help - what people or causes pull you in? One more stone - the one that brings it all together - what impact do you want to create. How do you want to be remembered? Let your answers be like a wall made of rock and they will form a foundation for the work you were born to do.

While evaluating and planning a career change , very often I meet clients who are deeply aware of what they don't want, what they are moving away from and what they want to leave. Which are all negative vectors and important to know. However, to provide energy positivity and sustain efforts I have seen clients who anchor career change on what they are moving towards, what they want, future vision of life (not limited to money) and next purpose normally happier and generally more successful in the process.

We humans are generally externally goal oriented e.g. money, title, autonomy, prestige, power, etc.. However, when looking at a career change it is crucial to first look internally at your purpose, values and motivation. Becoming clear on these internal workings will raise your consciousness about what really lights you up, what you were born to do. Being highly conscious about your purpose, values and motivation then allows you to align to your career. Like in a sweet running car, with great alignment, you'll get a fantastic career ride! And when you're misaligned, you'll feel excessive stress, pressure and frustration that will continue to impact you and others. Don't forget the internal workings and alignment for any career change!

Look Back to Move Forward Whenever my executive coaching clients are considering a job change, I urge them to start by remembering the moments in their professional life when they were the happiest and most fulfilled. I call this the “5 Rights” 1. You were the right person - you were using your true talents 2. You were doing the right thing - your work had meaning 3. You were with the right people - you were serving those you were drawn to 4. You were doing it in the right way - you had mastered your craft with excellence 5. You were doing it for the right reasons - actions were aligned with your purpose Look for the patterns and insights these moments offer and you will find clues to what your next chapter should be.

What's the why, behind your Why?Connect with professionals in the areas you are curious about. Volunteer in areas you are curious about in your community. Your craving to be a Public Speaker is becoming a change in your community, learn active listening to enjoy deeper conversations.

It can be both an exciting and stressful time just in the consideration phase. The more you share the idea with those around you, the more opinions you’ll recieve on what you should do … while useful, these opinions will be based on ‘their’ lived experiences, fears and dreams for you. As you listen to others and dive into researching alternatives, you will need objectivity, someone in your corner, ideally a coach to guide you, to bounce ideas, fears and scenarios off of and to hold you accountable. They will help you to define what it is that is missing in your current career, be able to narrow the focus when options become real and be there to keep you focused on the goal.

Having clarity about the job is pivotal for making any decision. Need thorough study and clarity about job requirements - skills, competencies, qualification and experience. Also having understanding about the expectations of the organization from this role, culture, values, vision and mission of the organization. Get help from the executive coach to get clarity around where you are standing currently on skills and competencies and other aspects to have realistic understanding of your options.

A complete 360 degree.. if not even 720 degree analysis can be done to understand which industry the client is interested in & what all other industries they have taught about. The JD, KPI, industry standards, Company Knowledge etc.., Today we also ask people to network with the other similar professionals through LinkedIn. This will also give hands on details during the research.

Bring All Your Gifts I’ve coached many people who spoke of their “work self” vs their “real self” - people with talent and creativity, who longed to use gifts outside their designated role, but were never called on. For one client, her financial aptitude had actually become a glass prison. She had a deep passion to lead initiatives on purpose and culture, but sadly, was advised to “stay in her area.” ???????? ?????????? ???? ?? ?????? ???? ???????? ?? ????????????, ?????? ????’?? ???? ?????? ???? ?????????? ?? ????????. She described the inability to use all her gifts as being “half alive.” Don’t let unused gifts become your deepest regrets. Make every day one where you are fully alive.

Take time to explore your skills, your strengths and your weaknesses. A coach can help you with this, but you can also gather constructive feedback from peers, friends and managers. Next you need to know what skills are required in a new role or area you have identified (if you know) so you can assess the gap. If you don't know what you want to do yet, a coach can also help you explore areas based on your strengths, skills and likes/dislikes. Equipping yourself with knowledge about yourself in these areas will provide clarity and motivation and make you feel more positively about the future rather than feeling stuck.

Doing skill analysis will help you to compare what are skills required and what you currently possess. This will help you to understand the gap between the required and available skill set and accordingly devise a plan to develop required skills. The executive coach will help you to understand the gap and also what actions you need to take to bridge this gap. This support will help you to gain more confidence to take actions.

I like to begin with strengths and innate talents when working with clients. My favorite assessments for identifying strengths are VIA Character Strengths and CliftonStrengths. Skills are acquired through education, training, practice, and experience. An individual may be skilled at something; however, receives no enjoyment from using that skill. If they enjoy using a particular skill, incorporate that knowledge into career targeting. If not, set that skill aside and focus on identifying roles that leverage strengths, innate talents, and other skills they do enjoy using.

Are you embarking on a career change journey? Discover the power of skill analysis to navigate your path with confidence and clarity. Conduct a thorough analysis of your current skills, strengths, and interests. Consider what aspects of your current role you enjoy and excel at and areas where you may need further development. Explore the job market to identify roles that align with your skills and interests. Look for trends and growth opportunities in industries that appeal to you. Skill analysis is a crucial first step in making a successful career change. By understanding your skills and the market demands, you can confidently make informed decisions and pursue new opportunities.

Networking is an often overlooked (or avoided) component for career changers. I get it, when you're not used to networking, it can be scary, but only because it isn't a well-developed skill... yet. To network effectively, a mindset shift is necessary. Think of it as connecting with like-minded people and building mutually beneficial relationships. Yes, perhaps you may be reaching out to someone at the moment because you need something. So find opportunities to return the favor, either now or in the future. That favor could be a life-changing one.

Networking is often underestimated, but it is essential for a successful career, but not selfish career networking along the lines of "I meet people who can be useful to me". Get to know as many people as possible from your company, your industry and other interest groups. Invest relationship capital and help others proactively. Many will return the favor later. Make friends, not just when you need them. Simply put, make sure people know you. If career decisions need to be made, they need to be in the minds of those making them.

Networking is often viewed as challenging, time consuming and 'a bit fake', but it can be incredibly helpful. It can lead to new opportunities and connections, and allows you to see that there is life outside of your current role and immediate circle. It often helps with confidence as you start to believe in the skills you have and that they are in demand elsewhere, as sometimes we lose confidence in ourselves particularly if we have been in the same place for a while. Look for opportunities to network and identify key companies, events and people you would like to connect with. People will remember you but only if you make the effort, and this needs to be more than just once. Keep connected, communicate and keep going to those events.

People sometimes misunderstand networking. Networking is an essential part of the journey of a job seeker. By networking you are able to connect with a different set of people and those connections might help you to get an opportunity. Connect with the people of your interest, field and companies you would like to join. Take the help of the executive coach to have strategies for networking and even the coach might connect you with his acquaintances who are crucial for your career transition.

Embarking on a new career path can be daunting, but it can also be exhilarating with the proper guidance. Begin by reflecting on your passions, strengths, and values to clarify the direction you want to take. Contact professionals in your desired field for informational interviews or join relevant industry groups to expand your network and gain insights. By proactively seeking guidance and building connections, you can navigate a career change with confidence and clarity.

Almost all of my coaching clients have reached the midpoint of their lives and I literally love working with them. The youthful illusion of endless tomorrows is gone and in its place is clear-eyed clarity - they know that without action, the things they’ve dreamed of will never happen. But here’s the key: the second half of life is no longer about success. It’s about significance. Titles, income, prestige and power are seldom the driving forces. Instead they are driven by meaning, the desire to make a difference and leave a legacy. My primary coaching begins with this powerful question: ?????? ???? ?????? ???????? ???? ???? ????????????????????? Once this answer is clear, we then build a step by step plan for creating it.

After reaching a certain stage in the career, money, fame, position doesn't make any difference in life. People look for passion, meaningful work and flexibility in their career after reaching a stage. The executive coach will help you to understand what is important for you in your career? And this clarity will help you to explore the opportunities in a better manner.

For making some major strategic plans, the executive or leadership coach is very important. The chances of the client missing a few important aspects while making strategies will be possible. But the coach will help them to see the unseen. By this, the client will have a complete picture while making the strategies & move forward with confidence & aspirations.

Embarking on a new career path can be daunting, but with strategic planning, it can become an exciting journey of self-discovery and growth. Begin by assessing your skills, interests, and values to align them with potential career options. This introspection will help you identify the right path. Conduct thorough research on industries and roles that interest you. Then, network with professionals in those fields to gain insights and advice. Strategic planning is key to successfully navigating a career change. It enables you to make informed decisions, set clear goals, and embark on a fulfilling new chapter in your professional life.

There are many successful careers. However, achieved career goals quickly lose their luster when family, friends or personal interests have to take a back seat in favor of influence and material wealth. If you want a career, you need to focus on the right goals. Your career will thrive if it fits your life and values. Discover what you are particularly good at and what you enjoy. Because in the long run, you won't achieve anything if you don't like what you do and aren't really good at it. As in chess, you should think 2-3 steps ahead to see if your next move is actually going in the right direction. I challenge my clients to develop a convincing, sustainable career plan.

Emotional readiness is hugely important when changing career as the uncertainty and potential for doubt can come in many different forms - from the fear that can arise from leaving something you know and moving into the unknown, to the rollercoaster that is job hunting. Prioritise the mindset work needed to maintain resiliency, and practise self-compassion by the bucket-load! A coach, and your broader support network, can help with maintaining perspective, reframing the challenges and providing support when it feels tough.

There would be certain emotional rollercoaster rides may happen during this phase. The emotional side of the client can be handled well by the coach. The coach will help the client to understand the limiting beliefs & make them more resilient, strong and healthy. This will make them feel more comfortable with their moves. This will significantly change their life in a progressive direction.

You should be aware, how emotionally are you ready to take that jump? As you are well aware, career change is where you are going to get out of a familiar environment to an unfamiliar environment. In this situation an executive coach will help to identify your emotional readiness to take that call and how you can overcome the "fear" and address the emotions of uncertainty by deploying your strengths and values.

Anyone seeking a promotion must be able to demonstrate the behavior required of them tomorrow already today. Putting yourself in your future position and looking at the issues from this perspective provides new insights. On the one hand, this enables everyone to recognize whether they are already up to the new role and what may still be missing. On the other hand, the environment, especially superiors, will quickly recognise that someone has outgrown their shoes.

Reflect or utilize tools to help identify your strengths, weaknesses, and what brings you joy. The intersection of your strengths and where you find joy through your work contribution will be your bullseye. This may lead you to an industry or career that you never have envisioned before, but will be the most rewarding work you have done in your life! Joy in the workplace is not the absence of hard work but rather finding purpose in your work and your contribution being valued by your employer. Yes, it is possible to find an employer where this is possible. ;)

It’s important to look at your strengths and see which you can use and how, in this transition. Moreover, it’s important that the new direction you’re heading towards is aligned with your core values. When we play on our strengths, and we are heading towards a vision aligned with our values, we become unstoppable. Drawbacks will become easier to overcome, and we will be energized by the process and purpose we have.

I would say follow your heart with the things that hat light you up but do your homework… Speak to people in the profession you are interested in - many jobs can seem super exciting as an outsider when you don’t fully know what is involved…

Before the career change, few things to consider are 1. The confidence level of changing 2. The growth or elevation analysis 3. Monetary benefits 4. Learning aspects 5. Global exposure 6. Being cognizant towards new change Mostly before shifting the base, a good financial savings should be there to support our risk. Even if it fails, the savings should help us to move forward.

A coachee came to me with a problem that she was not able to take a call about a job change. Identified the road blocks: - fear of unknown (new environment, new challenges, leaving known people & environment) - emotional attachment with the present organization. - family pressure to continue with current organization. When explored, she realised that the job change is important to get out of comfortzone and having challenges, which will help her in her career to grow as professional.