Career paths. Straight, Squiggly, Making your own.

It's been quite a long time since I last wrote here. Being completely honest, life happened. Perhaps in the most amazing way possible. Full of ups and downs, successes and failures, memorable evenings and mundane Tuesdays. Summer has come and almost gone and with it a whole myriad of opportunities and new horizons ahead. That said, I've taken some time to continue where I last ended up with a topic that is very close to my heart. The constant struggle of getting recognized and valued not only for your role, but also for your potential. It's a topic that was very close to my heart and his remained so since the summer of 2018 where I faced this exact struggle before I landed my first role as a dedicated Account Executive. For many, this is one of the most crucial Catch 22 situations as we might yearn for much more, but might not be given the chance to take that leap until we have already done it before. Therefore, today I want to note down some of my own thoughts on how I've processed this dilemma and contextualize it in the unique bias that is my perspective.

But first, why do I think this is even important? I sincerely believe that the concept of a “linear career path” is quickly becoming outdated as the main or sole source of progression. Gone are the days when a predictable transition from entry-level to senior management was the norm. Instead, we are witnessing the rise of what’s known as “squiggly careers” – diverse, non-linear paths that reflect a broader range of experiences and skills. In this article, we’ll explore the idea of "squiggly" careers, why they’re not just acceptable but valuable, and how you can position your unique journey to be recognized even if it doesn’t perfectly align with the traditional expectations of a job role or a future position you might want to have.

The Beauty of a Squiggly Career Path

Let’s start by embracing the squiggle. Unlike the straight lines and sharp angles of a traditional "linear career", a squiggly career weaves through different industries, roles, and experiences, often reflecting personal growth and adaptability. This path may include lateral moves, career breaks, or even complete career pivots. While this might sound chaotic, it’s actually a powerful way to build a rich tapestry of skills and experiences that can make you uniquely qualified for roles that demand creativity and problem-solving. So, where is the value? The key is to recognize that each twist and turn in your career adds a layer of depth to your professional story, making you a more resilient and resourceful candidate.

The challenge for many with non-linear careers is how to communicate the value of their diverse experiences in a way that resonates with potential employers. Here’s where storytelling becomes crucial. It’s not just about listing your past jobs or stating your skills, but about crafting a narrative (a story) that connects the dots between your experiences, highlighting the skills you’ve developed and how they align with the needs of the role you’re pursuing.

For instance, if you’ve transitioned from marketing in the fashion industry and into project management within tech, emphasize your ability to understand customer needs and drive projects to meet those needs. If you took time off to travel or pursue a passion project, focus on how these experiences broadened your perspective and enhanced your problem-solving abilities. The key is to show that your career "squiggles" have equipped you with a unique skill set that adds value in ways a traditional path might not. It's all about embracing your story and making it a strength, not something to hide.

Overcoming the Fear of Not Fitting the Mold

One of the biggest hurdles for those with squiggly careers is the fear of not fitting into the mold of what a “perfect candidate” looks like. I'll be honest. Everyone has dealt with impostor syndrome in one way or another at some point in our lives. But even here, it is important to remind oneself that we aren't built from a specific mold and just because we haven't done something before, it doesn't mean we can't do it in the future.

It’s easy to feel insecure about not having a straightforward career trajectory, especially when you’re up against candidates whose resumes seem more linear and polished. However, it’s essential to shift your mindset and see your diverse experiences as strengths rather than liabilities.

Instead of apologizing for your non-linear path, embrace it. Be confident in the fact that you’ve gained a wealth of knowledge and skills from various roles and industries. This confidence will translate into your interviews and interactions, making you stand out as a candidate who is not just qualified, but also adaptable and innovative.

Closing Thoughts

In a world that’s constantly evolving, a squiggly career is not a disadvantage – it’s an asset. The twists and turns of your professional journey make you more adaptable, creative, and prepared to handle the complexities of today’s job market. By positioning your experiences as strengths, overcoming the fear of not fitting the mold, and leveraging your network, you can ensure that your unique career path is not just recognized, but celebrated.

So, the next time you find yourself feeling uncertain about your non-linear career, remember: it’s not about fitting into a predefined box, but about creating a narrative that showcases your unique contributions and potential. Embrace the squiggle, and let it guide you to the opportunities that align with who you truly are.

Until the next one...

Daniel