Career Advice

Time For A Career Change?

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The thought of changing careers can seem daunting! We often look out at the end goal and fear what lies in between…like it will require a miracle for you to reach your goal.
In the beginning or at the very start we may see a career change as making one GIANT leap into a totally new life. I can guarantee you that you will not wake up an accountant one morning and a doctor the next. Career changes are a PROCESS and require dedication, reflection, focus, and hard work. 
It’s easy to see everyone else (especially on social media) talking about easy ways to achieve career or business goals. We can’t get caught up in all that hubbub! Focus on the aspects of  YOUR career change that you are in control of and break those smaller goals into manageable steps. Some of the steps may be more difficult than others but that is expected!
Don’t lose hope if something doesn’t come to you easily as you’d thought it would. You’re stepping out of your comfort zone for a reason. That reason is to find a career that is more challenging, exciting and meaningful to you.
 
How do you get started?
 
First, ask yourself these three questions:
• What parts of my job or career do I enjoy? What do I not enjoy?
• If I could have a new job tomorrow what would it be?
• What experience or skills do I need to get for that job/career?

 

Once you’ve identified and researched the skills needed for your new career you need to create an execution plan. I find it helpful to create weekly plans (and goals), with monthly and yearly goals. Make sure that your weekly goals, monthly goals and overall end goal are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time bound). These tactics will give you incremental victories on your way to your main goal – a NEW CAREER!
As you create your plan be sure to consider the amount of time it will take (For example, a 6-month coding boot camp) and how much you will be committing to financially. I would not recommend going into debt or taking out major loans unless that is the only option. Be sure to research the return on your investment from the training programs or schools that you’re considering.
As you begin your journey make sure to have someone like a friend or mentor that can help keep you on track and motivated. No matter how motivated we are in the beginning it’s hard to stay focused and motivated when we’re in the thick of it. It’s ok to have weak or down moments. You’re human…but DO NOT let those weak moments DEFINE you. Reaching your goals is not going to be smooth sailing, there are several elements that are out of your control, but you always have control of your attitude and your personal actions. Stay positive, focused and don’t forget to help others along the way. You’ll be receiving a ton of help and support from others – it’s important to share that same gift with others in your position.
Build your bridge, get rid of the gray area, and start actively taking steps to lead you towards your career goals. You have the ability, heart, and fortitude to be a MASSIVE SUCCESS!
– C.C. Coach 
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Career Advice, Job Search

The POWER of NETWORKING

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3 Ways to Network with Prospective Employers

& Build Relationships with Industry Leaders.

I recently read a quote that said: “85% of people found their jobs through networking.”
Whoa! Mind-blown! As someone that moved to a new city a couple of years ago…this would’ve been a scary statistic.  I didn’t know ANYONE when I moved to Boston in 2015. Thankfully, I worked for a tech start-up that was active in the community and constantly networking with local businesses in the area. 
Building a network from scratch can be a daunting task but you can’t think about building a WHOLE network all at once. Build it ONE connection AT A TIME. 
Here are THREE strategic ways to build your network:
  1. Venture Capital Firms – Check out local firms that specialize in your industry. For me, it was a firm that focused on investing in tech start-ups (OpenView Ventures in Boston). Firms like this are always working to help their portfolio clients as they scale and build out their internal teams. The firms usually have recruiting teams that are assisting hiring managers within their portfolio companies. Research their portfolio companies and directly reach out to those businesses or send your resume to the firm and explain your interests in their portfolio clients.
  2. Public Meet-ups – meetup.com and Eventbrite are the most popular sites. Both are constantly creating new events that you can attend within your area of expertise, career focus or personal interests. Sometimes going to an event that is focused on one of your hobbies or personal interests is a great way to have fun, meet new people, and connect with potential employers.
  3. Organizations & Associations Events – You can either join or attend an organization’s events. Some organizations events cost money or require you to be a member. If a membership is required try reaching out to the events main point of contact directly and explain to them why you’d like to attend their event. It never hurts to ask. Also, I’d recommend that you arrive early and stay a few minutes after the event. This is where most of the networking happens!
When it comes to your network quality is more important than quantity. 
It’s also important to have the right expectations going into each event. Relax and be open to meeting and learning from new people at an event. Keep the conversation focused on their company and what they do. It’s easy to start talking about yourself – you don’t want to dominate the conversation. To clarify, I’m not condoning that you go mute during a conversation but chime in when you have something to add to the conversation.
For example, say you meet the VP of Engineering for a company you’ve been wanting to apply to and he starts talking about a new Artificial Intelligence (AI) start-up. You can then mention an article you read or a podcast you just listened to on AI. 
This is a great way to share your interests and show how you relate to others – in one conversation!
When networking always be yourself…maybe a slightly more polished version but nonetheless don’t forget who you are! You don’t have to fit into their mold. When you work for a company it should be just as important that you like the work and company culture as much as they are deciphering if you’re a good fit (skills & cultural fit).
You’ve got this!
Feel free to send questions to your Cafe Career Coach here!
– C.C.Coach
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