How to Design and Navigate Non-Linear Careers
Lars Schmidt
Change Agent ? Talent Leader ? Author of the Bestselling Book, Redefining HR ? Fast Company Contributor ? Optimist
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Welcome to the latest episode of The Riff, co-hosted by Lars Schmidt , AJ Thomas ?? , and Q Hamirani .
In this lively discussion, they dive deep into the world of careers, offering valuable advice for those navigating their professional journeys.
Embracing Nonlinear Career Paths
Lars kicks off the conversation by noting the importance of embracing nonlinear career paths. Often, people feel pressured to follow a traditional, linear trajectory, but our hosts argue that taking detours and exploring various roles can be incredibly beneficial.
AJ emphasizes, "Don't be afraid to have a nonlinear career. Detours into different business areas can make you a better practitioner, especially in fields like HR."
The Concept of Ikigai
Q introduces the concept of Ikigai, a Japanese philosophy that helps individuals find their purpose by identifying the intersection of what they are good at, what they love, what the world needs, and what they can be paid for.
Q calls his version "Qwikigai" and explains that it's about self-reflection and aligning one's career with personal life goals and passions.
"It's really just a form of figuring out what you want from life and what you want from a career," Q explains.
The Power of Asking
AJ shares her approach to navigating her career, which involves a simple yet powerful strategy: just ask.
Whether she's negotiating for what she wants or exploring new opportunities, AJ highlights the importance of communicating your value and being proactive.
"You deliver enough value in the conversation that people see what you bring to the table," she says.
This approach has allowed her to transition successfully across various roles and industries.
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The Importance of Saying No
One recurring theme in the discussion is the power of saying no. As Lars points out, time is a finite resource, and managing it wisely is crucial, especially for entrepreneurs.
"Every no paves the way for a bigger yes," AJ adds, emphasizing the need to focus on meaningful projects and surround yourself with a supportive team. This strategy helps maintain balance and prevent burnout.
Career Reflections and Advice
Towards the end of the podcast, each host shares a piece of advice for viewers:
Conclusion
The conversation wraps up with a reminder that careers are a journey, not a destination. Lars, AJ, and Q highlight the importance of continuous learning, self-reflection, and flexibility.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to make a change, their insights offer valuable guidance for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of professional life.
For more insights and updates, follow AJ and Q on LinkedIn, and stay tuned for future episodes of The Riff.
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Passionate Brand, Culture, & People Ops Advisor | Strategic Leader & WHY Coach | Experienced in Building Remarkable Brands & High-Performing Teams
9 个月As someone who has 100% embraced (and massively benefited from) living a non-linear career (not to mention a big fan of Ikigai), I loved listening to you three riff this morning. Thank you for my daily dose of inspiration Lars Schmidt, AJ Thomas ??and Q Hamirani. Always feel re-energized after listening to your perspectives on things ??
Talent attraction, retention, and engagement for industry disruptors and innovators. | Talent Acquisition & People Operations | High-Growth Tech
9 个月"Ikigai, the Japanese philosophy that’s all about finding joy at the crossroads of what you’re good at, what you love, what the world needs, and what you can get paid for." I recently learned about Ikigai through one of Jenny Lustig ??'s newsletters, and I find this to be so inspiring and eye-opening. This should be taught in classrooms and revisited throughout the various stages of one's career and life.
Talent @ ???⊥ | Hype Man ??
9 个月This is why Recruiting will leapfrog ER/L&D. We'll soon see more CPOs from a Talent track. Recruiters in early stage companies have deeper insights into the motivations of team members. Using the data they extract from the first screening call they apply rapid pattern matching for non-linear development programs through aligning folks in the org who share the intrinsic motivations and values. #QualityofHire
General Partner @ Good Trouble Ventures | CEO @ The Troublemaker Lab | Forbes Contributor | Advisor & Executive Coach | Award-Winning Children's Book Author | Mom of ???????????? ????
9 个月This was incredibly fun. Being able to share these unscripted real-life experiences after years of friendship and learning from you both continues to be such a gift. In a world where we are so conditioned to deep dive on the Why, How, and What of things - let’s not forget about WHO. A “career” is a by product of a set of learning experiences about who we are and what value we bring in any experience. It’s not just linear approach - be a super learner and don’t be afraid to get insatiably curious about who you are becoming as you learn. ??you’ll end up looking back having 10X’ed your original career goals.