Confidence

Facing a Career Crossroad: Should You Stay or Should You Go?

pictured: four signs saying "career" and pointing in different directions

Facing a Career Crossroad: Should You Stay or Should You Go?

November 13, 2023

pictured: four signs saying "career" and pointing in different directionsShould you stay in your current job, or should you go?

In my recent blog posts, I delved deep into recognizing the red flags that might signal it's time to reconsider your current job, as well as the green flags that indicate you're right where you should be.

But what should you do once you've identified these signs?

How do you navigate the nuanced process of deciding whether to stay or go?

Making a career decision, especially one as significant as whether to stay in or leave a job, is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. Deciding whether to push through challenges or when to seek new opportunities is rarely straightforward. It's filled with variables, personal values, and considerations that will be unique to you.

Let’s explore how to process these signals and make an informed decision that feels right.

Balancing the Red and Green Flags

First and foremost, no job is perfect. Recognizing that every position will have its mix of pros and cons is crucial.

Your goal is not to find a job without challenges, but rather to find one where the challenges are balanced by rewards and where you see a positive trajectory for your future.

Quantify the Flags

Create a list of all the red and green flags you've identified. Assign a weight to each based on what’s important to you. For example, if work-life balance is a top priority, you would give it more weight than something else. This will provide a clearer picture of which issues or benefits are mere inconveniences and which are deal-breakers or major positives.

Assess Personal Impact

Reflect on how these flags affect you, both personally and professionally. Are the red flags causing stress, impacting your relationships, or stifling your growth? Conversely, are the green flags promoting your personal well-being, driving your career development, and giving you a sense of purpose?

Seek External Perspectives

Talk to mentors, a career coach, trusted colleagues, and your friends. These discussions can provide you with a fresh, external perspective and help you see things you might have missed or validate what you've been feeling. Keep in mind: Your perspective matters the most! But it’s easy to get stuck in a singular perspective. Use these conversations to help you think more broadly.

Questions to Ponder

The world isn’t static. There’s often room for change, either on your end or somewhere else… within reason! Here are some additional things to think about.

Can the Red Flags Be Addressed?

Before making a move, consider if there's room for change. Can a conversation with your supervisor or HR address some of the issues? Would a small move (perhaps internal to the company?) create enough of a shift to mitigate the red flags?

Is There a Future Here?

If you can see yourself growing, learning, and advancing in your current position, it might be worth staying, even if there are red flags. If there's no clear future, it might be time to consider other opportunities.

What Are Your Personal and Career Goals?

What you want for yourself matters! Ideally, your job is a stepping stone toward achieving your broader objectives. If it's diverting you from what you want for yourself, it's worth reconsidering.

Looking Ahead

Now that you’ve looked at both red and green flags, what’s next?

If you decide it's time to move on, remember that it’s best to do your job hunting while still employed because it offers advantages. You're less pressured to accept the first offer that comes along, allowing you to be more selective. Furthermore, having current employment can be appealing to potential employers.

On the other hand, if you decide to stay, be proactive in addressing any red flags. Open up lines of communication, seek opportunities for growth that appeal to you, and regularly revisit your feelings to ensure you remain aligned with your career trajectory.

Ultimately, the decision to stay or move on from a job is deeply personal and complex. It involves weighing the good against the bad, and also considering your long-term aspirations and personal well-being. By thoughtfully evaluating both red and green flags and seeking external advice, you can make better decisions that align with what you want for yourself.

Remember: The goal isn’t to make a perfect decision, but a more-informed one. Trust your gut, trust the process, and know that each decision you make moves you closer to a more fulfilling career.

What if you could find out about job openings before they were posted?

Download the guide, The Secret to Getting to the Front of the Line, and learn how to access the hidden job market.

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Seeing the Green Flags: How to Tell if You Are in the Right Job

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Seeing the Green Flags: How to Tell if You Are in the Right Job

October 30, 2023

pictured: green flag with a blue sky and clouds behindHave you ever been in a place where you felt completely in sync with your job? Where the issues were challenging but surmountable, the environment was uplifting, and your contributions were recognized and valued?

Those moments of alignment are what I refer to as "green flags"—the signs that you're not just in a good job, but the right job for you.

The Positive Impact of Being in the Right Position

Being in the right job is not just about satisfaction during working hours. This positive alignment has ripple effects that impact your overall well-being, motivation, and even your personal life. When evaluating your career satisfaction, we need to adopt a holistic view that considers both your work and its broader impact on your life.

Here are some of the key green flags to look for that indicate you’re in the right role:

Consistent Engagement and Drive
When you wake up on a workday, do you feel energized and driven? This isn’t just about not dreading the day, but about looking forward to what’s in store. Tasks feels purposeful, you feel like you make a difference, and you're keen to tackle challenges head-on.

Personal and Professional Growth
Do you feel like you’re evolving, not just as a professional but as an individual? When your company provides avenues for you to learn and invites you to step out of your comfort zone in a safe but challenging way that is in alignment with the direction you envision for yourself, it’s a sign that you’re in the right place!

Alignment with Your Personal Values
Do you feel a sense of pride when you tell people where you work.? This is a sign that your company's ethos and values resonate with your own, making you feel like you're part of something bigger.

Beyond your individual role, we also want to look at your overall professional environment. Let's dive deeper into these signs.

Green Flags: Recognizing When You're Where You Need to Be

Fulfillment and Job Satisfaction
It’s okay to occasionally feel down about going to work, like at the end of a great weekend or vacation when you need to switch back into work mode. But if they’re few and far between, it’s not a bad sign! No job is perfect every day, but if the majority of your time is spent feeling accomplished, valued, and fulfilled, you’re probably in the right place.

Opportunities for Advancement
You should see a clear path for where you can (and want to!) progress. If you can visualize your future with the company and that feels like vision you want for yourself, this is a really positive sign.

In Sync with Company Culture
Do you feel like you “fit in” with your company’s culture? Or even better – do you feel like you can thrive there? These are indications that your company’s culture complements your own personal work style and ethos. If there’s mutual respect, understanding, and a sense of community, take it a sign that your company’s values are in sync with your own.

Work-Life Balance:
If you are feeling like you can create the space that you need for your personal life, then your company likely respects boundaries and promotes a healthy balance. This is much better than feeling drained or like you have to sacrifice your personal time for work. There may need to be an occasional give-and-take, but if you feel like you are balanced more often than not, then it’s a great sign that you can maintain a fulfilling personal life alongside your career.

Recognition and Fair Compensation
Are your efforts regularly acknowledged, and do you feel fairly compensated for your role? It’s essential that your contributions are recognized in ways that resonate with you.

Trust and Transparency with Leadership
Do you feel like there’s open communication between employees and leadership at your company? If you see decisions as being transparent, and there’s a mutual trust that empowers you to do your best, then you’re at a company where you will likely thrive!

Valuing the Green Flags

Spotting these green flags doesn’t mean there won’t be challenging days or moments of doubt. Challenges and down days are a normal part of life. But when there are way more good days than bad, that’s an indicator that the good far outweighs the bad, and that you’re in a place that aligns with your career goals and personal values.

So, while it’s essential to be vigilant about red flags, it's equally, if not more, important to recognize and appreciate the green flags. They're a sign that you’re on the right path, and that your current position is a stepping stone to the career you envision for yourself.

Remember: Being in the right job doesn't mean it's easy; it does mean it's worth it.

What if you could find out about job openings before they were posted?

Download the guide, The Secret to Getting to the Front of the Line, and learn how to access the hidden job market.

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Seeing the Red Flags: Is it Time to Leave Your Job?

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Seeing the Red Flags: Is it Time to Leave Your Job?

October 17, 2023

pictured: red flag with a cloudy sky behind itWe've all had those mornings. You know… the alarm goes off and the first thing you do is start thinking of reasons to call in sick.

While everyone has a rough day now and then, how do you know when those feelings are a sign that something worse is happening. Are you just in a rough patch, or is the job itself a problem and it’s time to move on?

The Personal Impact of Staying in an Unsatisfactory Position

Staying in a job you don't love isn't just a professional decision—it affects you personally. If you're consistently unhappy, it will show up in your sleep, your eating habits, your stress levels, and even your relationships.

More than that, it can hold you back. It can stop you from reaching your potential and growing in your career. Not just in terms of missed opportunities, but emotionally too. If a job drains you, it can also stifle your ambition or your drive to excel.

Is it time for you to look for a new opportunity? Let’s dig into the red flags that can serve as a powerful hint.

Red Flags: Signs it Might Be Time to Move On

Dissatisfaction and Dread:
We all have off days. But if that "I'd rather be anywhere but here" feeling is a regular morning companion, it's time to listen!

Stagnation and Lack of Growth:
Do you feel like you're stuck on a treadmill, running but going nowhere? If the company you work for doesn’t offer any room to grow or the opportunity to learn new things and expand your skills, it might be time to consider a change.

Misaligned Values and Company Culture:
If you feel out of place or notice that the company's actions don't resonate with your personal values, it can be hard to stay motivated or feel proud of what you do. If naming your workplace makes you wince, this is a powerful sign that there is an important misalignment that you should address.

Frequent Overwhelm and Burnout:
Sure, everyone's busy. But if your level of "busy" is creating constant stress or feeling like you will never catch up, that's a problem. If you’re not allowed to say no to projects even though your desk is already full, if you’re required to work late constantly to stay caught up, or if you’re regularly in a state of anxiety, these are big red flags that are leading down a dark path.

Feeling Underappreciated or Undervalued:
A simple "thank you" can go a long way. If your hard work consistently goes unnoticed or you feel you're not compensated fairly, it's worth reassessing whether you’re in the right place. If you are regularly handed additional work or responsibility but not compensated for those extra duties, this is a bad sign.

Trust Issues with Management or Leadership:
Trust is a two-way street. On one side, you need to trust that the decisions made by leadership are in the best interest of the company and its employees. If you find yourself frequently questioning their decisions or sensing a lack of transparency, it's worth taking a closer look at what’s happening there. On the flip side, it's equally important that the leadership trusts you. If you sense they're regularly second-guessing your decisions or hesitant to entrust you with more responsibility, it raises concerns about whether you’ll be able to grow in that environment.

Weighing the Red Flags

But hold on a second—don't send in that resignation just yet! Your best first move should be to take a step back and look at the bigger picture.

One bad week or a single incident might not mean it's time to go. It could indicate red flags, or the challenge might be easily addressable!

It’s always a good idea to talk about what you’re experiencing with your boss. And if you're still unsure, try keeping a work journal. Jot down how you feel each day. Over time, patterns might emerge that can create clarity.

Preparing for the Next Step

If you’re leaning towards making a change, start your job hunt while you’re still employed. Dust off that resume, reach out to contacts, and ramp up that networking! If you're feeling uncertain, seeking advice from a career coach or mentor can be invaluable. I've often encountered and assisted clients right at this juncture, when they're contemplating whether to stay or make a move. It's a significant decision and having the right support can make all the difference.

Here’s what I want you to keep in mind: Your well-being and growth should always be a priority. Trust your gut! If something feels off, try to figure out what it is.

Remember: Every job or experience, good or bad, gets you one step closer to where you want to be. Stay tuned for our next post, where we'll explore the "green flags" that signal you're in the right job!

What if you could find out about job openings before they were posted?

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Building Trust: The Cornerstone of Lasting Connections

Pictured: 2 men in professional clothing shaking hands and smiling.

Building Trust: The Cornerstone of Lasting Connections

September 11, 2023

Pictured: 2 men in professional clothing shaking hands and smiling.As you consider your professional relationships, have you ever wondered what really cements a connection?

The answer is: Trust.

Trust is that intangible bond, that invisible thread, which ties us together in the professional realm and beyond.

Why is trust so crucial?

While networking events might give us a plethora of contacts, trust is the element that determines which of these contacts evolve into fruitful collaborations, partnerships, or even friendships.

Trust isn't just about believing someone will do as they say. It's about genuinely understanding the essence of a person, recognizing their values, and establishing an emotional connection.

When you trust someone, you're more willing to take risks with them, share your thoughts openly, and support each other in pursuing your goals. In the professional realm, this translates to collaborative projects, new business opportunities, and the sharing of valuable resources and information.

When trust is present, you know the other person has your back. This trust significantly reduces the energy and time spent on verifying, cross-checking, and second-guessing. The result? It saves time, reduces stress, and brings you peace of mind!

How to Cultivate Trust: The Actionable Steps

Building trust is akin to planting a tree. You sow the seeds, nurture them, and patiently wait as they sprout and grow. But what does that look like in real life?

Here’s a roadmap to help you foster trust:

Be Genuine. Authenticity is the starting point. In every interaction, be yourself. People can sense pretense, and nothing erodes trust faster than insincerity.

Keep Your Word. If you say you’re going to do something, make sure you do it. Reliability strengthens trust. Every time you follow through, you’re saying: You can trust me.

Engage with Empathy. Approach every interaction with a genuine heart, listening intently and responding thoughtfully. If you want to know what this might look like, consider Grieving Grace from one of my recent posts.

Keep Lines of Communication Open. Encourage open dialogue. Ask questions and invite feedback. When both parties engage in open communication, it creates a trust-enriching environment.

Recognize and Respect Boundaries. Everyone has their own unique boundaries. Recognizing and respecting these is vital to nurturing trust.

Create Shared Experiences. Spend time together beyond networking events. Shared experiences like coffee chats, lunch, or even shared projects, can deepen the bond of trust.

Trust is a Two-way Street

As you embark on this journey of trust-building, remember: It's not just about you trusting others, but also about making yourself trustworthy. Like the "You, You, Me, You" framework, it’s about mutual respect and understanding. The goal is to create a balance where both parties feel valued, understood, and most importantly, trusted.

Trust is the bedrock of every lasting connection. It's the foundation upon which all successful professional relationships are built.

So, the next time you're at a networking event, meeting, or even a casual get-together, approach each conversation from the perspective of building trust. It's an investment that will pay rich dividends in the form of enduring, valuable relationships.

For more insights on building trust, relationships, and effective communication, I'd recommend diving into my book: "You, You, Me, You: The Art of Talking to People, Networking, and Building Relationships."

Remember, trust is more than a word; it’s the heart of every genuine connection.

What if you could find out about job openings before they were posted?

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Building Connections: Mastering the Art of Networking with Different Personalities

Two people talking at a networking event

Building Connections: Mastering the Art of Networking with Different Personalities

July 30, 2023

Two people talking at a networking eventHave you ever noticed that when you’re networking, each person you meet has a unique personality that you need to figure out how to navigate quickly? Some are easy to work with, but others can feel sticky, frustrating, or confusing. What can you do?

I’ve found that understanding and managing these diverse personalities is the key to having productive and positive conversations that enable us to build meaningful relationships.

In the world of networking, you're likely to encounter all sorts of personalities, so let's focus on four common ones: Hijack Harry, Grieving Grace, Humble Hannah, and Pushy Pete. When you understand how to navigate conversations with them, you can create more authentic connections that will serve you in the long run.

Hijack Harry

Have you ever experienced someone who constantly hijacks your conversation? You start sharing a personal experience, like a trip you've taken, and suddenly, they jump in, talking about their own trip, cutting you off. It's frustrating, right? Well, you've just met Hijack Harry.

Hijack Harry is that person who tends to dominate conversations and steer them towards their own experiences. It can be helpful to recognize that Harry probably doesn’t even realize he’s taken over; It can be helpful to recognize that it’s not a malicious move on his part.

If you catch yourself about to hijack a conversation, take a moment to pause and refocus. Acknowledge the other person's experience and let them share their story. By showing genuine interest, you build stronger connections and create a more balanced conversation.

Grieving Grace

Grieving Grace is the person you’ve just met who is going through a major loss or facing a challenging situation. When talking to Grieving Grace, it's crucial to be an empathetic listener.

Don’t assume that you understand exactly how they feel, even if you’ve been through something similar. We all experience grief differently and without knowing them well, it’s hard to know what to do. Your best bet every time is to listen with an open heart and just let them express themselves. Offer empathetic responses to let them know you genuinely understand and support them during their difficult time.

Humble Hannah

If you meet someone who is very reserved and doesn’t seem to want to share her achievements, you’re talking to Humble Hannah. Especially if you’re looking for a balanced conversation with mutual sharing, this can feel like a bit of a struggle.

When talking with Humble Hannah, you might draw her out by showing genuine interest in her experiences, accomplishments, and interests. Compliment her on her strengths and the positive impact she has on others. When you notice and celebrate her successes, you create an environment where Hannah feels valued and comfortable sharing her achievements.

Similarly, if you tend to hesitate to share your own experiences, remember that in the networking environment, you need to tell people about your achievements as part of helping them get to know you. If you worry about sounding like you’re bragging, think about it as inviting them to celebrate with you.

Pushy Pete

Are you feeling like the person you’re talking to is trying to push a sale before they’ve even given you a chance to get to know them? Say hi to Pushy Pete!

Pete is all about the sale to the point where he neglects the essential aspects of building relationships. When dealing with Pushy Pete, try to shift the conversation towards making a genuine connection. Ask questions about the business, how he got into it, and try to find out more about who he is as a person.

Similarly, if you feel yourself jumping into sell mode, remember to avoid pushing for a purchase too soon and let the relationship grow naturally. Trust and mutual understanding lay the foundation for successful transactions in the future.

The goal is not to avoid people who have these personalities; it's about being present and steering the conversation based on who you're interacting with.

Developing these skills will empower you to navigate various networking situations more effectively. You may even find that networking gets more interesting and fun because you’ve started to understand what’s happening and how you can control it better.

And this is just the beginning!

If you want to master the art of talking to people and forming genuine connections, my book, "You, You, Me, You: The art of talking to people, networking, and building relationships," offers valuable insights and practical tips about these and many more personality types.

I delve into specific strategies for creating authentic connections, becoming a better listener, and nurturing relationships that stand the test of time. When you practice the principles outlined in my book, you will elevate your networking skills and unlock the true potential of meaningful connections. This will enable you to build relationships that matter and open doors to endless opportunities in both your personal and professional life.

What if you could find out about job openings before they were posted?

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Finding Clarity in Your Professional Journey: The Power of Career Coaching

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Finding Clarity in Your Professional Journey: The Power of Career Coaching

July 10, 2023

two women sitting across from each other in a coffee shop. One is pointing to a laptop screen that they have positioned between them.Have you ever felt lost in your career, unsure of which direction to take and wondering who could possibly help you? We all encounter moments like this when we could benefit from professional advice.

Reaching out to colleagues or managers can be helpful, but there are times when a dedicated career coach becomes essential. For example, if you want to keep your professional exploration private, or if you want to talk to someone who doesn’t have their own professional interest in your decisions, a career coach is your best choice.

But how do you find the right one for you?

One of the key aspects of working with a career coach is finding someone who specializes in your area of expertise or where you are in your journey. Let's take a look at the types of clients that career coaches typically work with and how they can assist you in getting unstuck and finding a clear direction.

Recent Graduates:

Many recent graduates find themselves feeling lost after completing their studies. They often lack clarity regarding where they want to go in their career, and they may have trouble landing a job.

As a career coach, I often work with new graduates, offering them guidance and support. Together, we delve into their motivations for choosing their field of study and identify the aspects they enjoyed the most. By thoroughly examining their academic experience, including classes, projects, teamwork, and extracurricular activities, we uncover valuable insights that they can use to find a sense of direction. For graduates who are no longer interested in the field that they studied, I help them identify their skills and experiences which can open doors to the career paths that fit them better.

Limited Work Experience:

For people with limited work experience or internships, it can be challenging to demonstrate their capabilities to potential employers.

As their career coach, I help them highlight their educational background, projects, team collaborations, and any relevant summer jobs. We work together to carefully examine their experiences and identify valuable skills and social abilities that employers seek. With that information in hand, we develop a plan to explore suitable career opportunities that leverage these skills and experiences, even if they are not directly related to their degree.

Experienced Professionals:

Experienced professionals who have grown unclear about where their career path is going can benefit from career coaching. It’s not unusual to want to change directions later in your career, especially if your interests and values have shifted.

We begin by identifying their core strengths and skills, focusing on areas where they excel and have achieved notable results. We then delve into their values and desires, determining the kind of work environment, team dynamics, and manager-employee relationship that align with their personality. We also explore their interests, areas of passion, and aspirations to narrow down potential career paths.

Working with a career coach involves unraveling your unique skills, values, and interests to uncover hidden opportunities. My mission as a career coach is to help you gain insights into yourself and guide you towards making informed career decisions.

Finding a job that suits you involves more than simply applying to countless positions. A strategic approach is required, which includes aligning your skills, values, and interests with job descriptions and effectively utilizing keywords in your resume. Applying for jobs that match your qualifications significantly improves your chances of securing interviews. When you work with a career coach, you can streamline your job search, focus on the most relevant opportunities, and increase your chances of receiving positive responses.

No matter where you are in your career journey, partnering with a career coach can be a transformative experience. By aligning your skills, values, and interests with job opportunities, you'll approach your job search with confidence and focus. With a career coach as your trusted partner, you can navigate the challenging job market and discover the right path for you that leads to your fulfillment and success.

What if you could find out about job openings before they were posted?

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Reclaiming Joy at Work: Transform Your Unhappiness into Professional Success

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Reclaiming Joy at Work: Transform Your Unhappiness into Professional Success

June 26, 2023

woman at her laptop looking unhappyAre you feeling unsatisfied and unmotivated in your current job?
Do you dread going to work every day?
Are you feeling undervalued or like you were meant for something more?

If any of these questions resonate, it's time to take action and make a change!

But how do you make a change in the right direction? How can you be certain that your next job is a better fit?

Here are five things you can do to get clear on where you want to go from here.

Identify Your Values: One of the key factors in finding happiness at work is understanding your values. That’s because your values are what drive and motivate you to do your best work. They are the guiding principles that shape your decisions and actions. Take some time to reflect on what truly matters to you and what you want to prioritize in your career. Are you driven by integrity, honesty, recognition, or something else? Knowing your values will help you align your work with what truly fulfills you.

Establish Clear Boundaries: Boundaries play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy work-life balance and preserving your overall well-being. It's essential to assess whether your values align with the boundaries you have set for yourself. Are you comfortable with the culture and the people you work with? Do you feel supported and recognized for your contributions? By identifying your boundaries and ensuring they align with your values, you can create an environment that fosters your personal and professional growth.

Develop Your Self-Confidence: The key ingredient for achieving success and happiness in your career is your confidence. It gives you the strength to speak up, assert your needs, and advocate for yourself. Building self-confidence takes time and effort, but it's a worthwhile investment. Your increased confidence will enable you to navigate workplace challenges and make informed decisions that align with your values.

Take Intentional Action: Don't let unhappiness at work linger. Take the initiative to invest in your future and find the fulfillment you deserve. Whether you decide to find a new job, acquire new skills, go back to school, or proactively improve your situation at your current company, I encourage you to make choices that are aligned with your aspirations.

Keep Growing: Embracing a mindset of lifelong learning is key to staying relevant and adaptable in today's dynamic work landscape. Commit to continuous growth and improvement. Seek out learning opportunities, stay updated with industry trends, and expand your knowledge and skills. By embracing lifelong learning, you position yourself for long-term career satisfaction and fulfillment.

It is possible for you to be happy at work. That opportunity is within reach! When you understand your values, set clear boundaries, and develop your self-confidence, you can take charge of your career and create a path that aligns with your passions and aspirations.

It's time to take charge of your career—start your journey towards happiness today.

What if you could find out about job openings before they were posted?

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Managing Expectations: Dealing with Silence During Your Job Search

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Managing Expectations: Dealing with Silence During Your Job Search

May 22, 2023

Woman waiting with her hands clasped on desk, waiting for iphone to ringWhen you’re actively looking for a job, not hearing back from employers, network contacts, or interviewers can be extremely frustrating. The waiting game can feel never-ending, and it's easy to become disheartened.

Unfortunately, the answer is not to stop or skip the silence. Rather, you need to learn how to manage your expectations and accept the silence that comes with the process.

Below are three key pieces of advice to help you manage the silent times, which will also help you have realistic expectations and stay confident.

Realistically Assess Your Timeline

The first step in managing your expectations as a job seeker is to realistically assess your timeline for finding a new job.

If I were to ask you when you want to be re-employed, it's likely that you’re thinking: "As soon as possible!" However, it's important to set a timeline that is feasible and takes into consideration the typical hiring process in your industry and location.

For example, if you are planning to spend six to eight weeks to find a job, you should already be in the interview process. The entire process, starting from when you’re first looking for a job to apply for, takes much longer than that. Setting unrealistic expectations for a quick turnaround can lead to disappointment and frustration.

Other factors that can affect your timeline for finding a job include your qualifications and experience. If you have the skills and experience that are currently in demand in your industry and the companies you are applying to, your job search may be shorter compared to someone who lacks these qualifications.

Additionally, the process you are following to find a can also impact your timeline. If you're not utilizing effective and organized job search methods, it may take even longer to receive a job offer.

Seek Realistic Expectations

Another way to manage your expectations is to seek realistic advice from a career coach or other career guidance resource. Many early to mid-career professionals and recent college graduates may not have a clear understanding of the job search process or the current job market.

Seeking guidance from professionals who can provide insight into your specific industry and local job market can help you set more realistic expectations. Career coaches can also help you determine how much work you need to do to reach your goal and provide valuable strategies and insights to improve your job search.

Consider Market Conditions

The condition of the market you are in can also impact your job search timeline and expectations. Job markets can vary greatly depending on the location and industry, and it's important to consider these factors when setting your expectations.

Research your local job market and determine if it's a good time to be looking for a job in your field. For example, some industries may be experiencing high demand for certain roles, while others may be more competitive or have limited job opportunities. If you're considering a career change or looking to transition to a different location, be aware that it may take longer to find a job in a new field or area.

Managing your own expectations is a crucial aspect of the job search process. When you set realistic timelines, seek advice from career professionals, and consider market conditions, you can keep yourself confident and motivated during your job search journey.

Remember that job searches almost always take longer than we anticipate. It's important to be patient and persistent while also being realistic about the process. With the right mindset and strategy, you can increase your chances of success in finding your next job opportunity. Good luck!

What if you could find out about job openings before they were posted?

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Building Your Professional Network: Tips for Early Career Professionals

Group of business people talking at a networking event

Building Your Professional Network: Tips for Early Career Professionals

May 8, 2023

Group of business people talking at a networking eventBuilding a professional network is essential for growing your career.

Networking can open doors to new opportunities that aren’t otherwise available. It can help you find a mentor and give you insight into industry knowledge that you can’t access through the public media or the internet.

But how do you get started? How do you network in a way that will help you build the relationships that you need over the long term of your career?

That’s a real challenge that most people face. Networking takes time, practice, and a consistent effort. Here are some specific things you can do to build a network that will help you grow your career.

Tips for Building Your Professional Network

Start Early: It's never too early to start building your professional network. If you're still in college, take advantage of networking opportunities such as career fairs, alumni events, and industry associations. Connect with professors, alumni, and professionals in your field of interest to build relationships and learn from their experiences. If you're already in your early career, it's not too late to start. Look for networking events, professional associations, and online communities related to your industry or career path.

Be Yourself: When networking, it's important to be genuine and professional. Show interest in others and be respectful of their time and expertise. Choose to be yourself; this will invite them to be authentic with you in return.

Be Professional: Avoid using networking solely for self-promotion; instead focus on building authentic relationships based on mutual respect and value. In other words, give as well as take. Maintain a professional demeanor and be mindful of your online presence, as potential employers or colleagues are probably checking your social media profiles.

Ask for Advice: Don't be afraid to ask for advice from your network. Ask questions, seek guidance, and show curiosity about others' experiences and insights. People love to share their knowledge and expertise; asking for advice can be a great way to build connections and learn from others. Be open to feedback and be willing to learn from others' perspectives.

Give Back: Giving back is an important aspect of networking. Offer your help, resources, or support to others in your network without expecting anything in return. This could include sharing articles or resources, providing introductions, or volunteering your time and expertise. If you aren’t sure how to help, ask them what you can do for them. Even just an expressed willingness to help can go a long way. By being generous and helpful, you can build a positive reputation and create meaningful long-term connections.

Be Proactive: Building a professional network requires that you be proactive. Seek out networking opportunities, attend events, and connect with professionals in your industry. When you make connections, be proactive in staying in touch with them by scheduling coffee or agreeing to go to the same networking event.

Follow Up: Most people don't do this so this is where you can really stand out. When you meet contacts at networking events or online, follow up within 24 hours. You can really make an impression when you send a personalized thank-you note. At the very least, send a follow-up email. Following up is the thing that most people don’t do, so it’s the perfect way to stand out.

Building relationships takes time and effort. I encourage you to be patient, keep working on it, and plan on sticking with it for the long term.

A professional network is essential for every professional. Whether you're a student, early career professional, or mid-career professional, now is the time to invest in building your professional network. Take action today and watch your network grow and thrive, opening doors to new opportunities and career success.

What if you could find out about job openings before they were posted?

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Strategies for Navigating Psychological Safety in the Workplace

Work team members in an office, talking as a group.

Strategies for Navigating Psychological Safety in the Workplace

April 10, 2023

Work team members in an office, talking as a group. In the modern workplace, employees are expected to bring their best ideas and thoughts to the table. However, for many, expressing their opinions and thoughts can be a daunting task. This is where psychological safety comes into play.

Let’s dive deeper into the concept of psychological safety in the workplace and explore what you can do if you feel that your workplace is not a psychologically safe environment.

What is psychological safety?

According to Garnter, “Psychological safety is an environment that encourages, recognizes and rewards individuals for their contributions and ideas by making individuals feel safe when taking interpersonal risks.”

Taking it from the opposite perspective, the Center for Creative Leadership describes psychological safety as “the belief that you won't be punished or humiliated for speaking up with ideas, questions, concerns, or mistakes.”

What is psychological safety in the workplace?

When you take a look at Psychological safety as it applies to the workspace, Gartner explains that it is “a shared expectation held by members of a team that teammates will not embarrass, reject, or punish them for sharing ideas, taking risks, or soliciting feedback.”

What does this mean for you?

If you have differing point of view with your colleagues or manager, it’s important that you feel comfortable expressing your opinion.

Speaking up to your manager is a courageous act all on its own. If done respectfully, the outcome can be positive.

However, I have learned that many of my clients do not feel safe expressing their opinions at work. As a result, they are stressed, anxious about going to work, and not fully engaged in their workplace. Their overall well-being is affected across the board, both at work and in their personal lives.

Fear prevents employees from voicing their opinions. They are afraid of being fired, or of being given a negative performance review because they were deemed “difficult.” They worry about getting on someone’s radar; if they cross the line just once, they can be labeled and on a powerful person’s bad side from there on out.

If your workplace is psychologically unsafe, what can you do about it?

You could talk to your boss. If you feel like they are approachable and just not aware of the impact on you and your colleagues, a simple conversation might be enough to make the changes that you need. I like to give people the benefit of the doubt. If no one has spoken up to them before, they may just not realize that what is happening is inappropriate.

If the issue is with your manager or your colleagues, and your boss isn’t approachable or responsive to your concerns, consider talking to their manager. (I think of them as the “big boss.”) It is possible that they aren’t aware of the situation and wouldn’t approve of it if they knew about it. This can be a scary option, especially if you’re concerned your immediate boss will be angry that you went over their head and take it out on you.

This is a great time to find a coach. When you talk to your boss or the “big boss” about these types of sensitive topics, it can be difficult to know what to say or how to say it. A coach can help you put together how you want to convey your message. They can also help you gather the courage that you’ll need to take these steps.

This whole scenario is just one reason why it can be helpful to develop positive relationships with your boss and their boss. Ideally, you don’t want the first time you talk to the “big boss” to be when you’re talking about a problem that you’re experiencing.

If neither your boss nor the “big boss” is responsive, that may be the time bring in HR. I consider HR to be the last resort. It’s important to make sure you try other steps first. Once you bring in HR, you’re bringing in more people and a bigger response. This is another good time to have a coach who has your back. They can help you find the right words to explain what you are experiencing and guide you through what may be an emotionally challenging time.

If you experience a lack of psychological safety throughout the company, it’s likely embedded in the culture. Your boss and their boss may not only be unaware that it’s happening; they may see it as “this is just how things work around here.” If they don’t understand the problem (or are so much a part of the problem that you can’t talk to them) it still might be worth talking to HR. It is possible that they don’t realize the negative experience of the culture on their employees. But if it’s truly embedded in the company culture, it’s going to be even more difficult to drive change, especially in a very big corporation.

If you truly feel like there’s no way for you to change what’s happening, your best option may be to leave. If that’s the case, at least you now know more about what you don’t want in the company you work for.

Remember that you deserve to be treated with respect, kindness, and compassion by everyone, especially by your manager and colleagues.

What if you could find out about job openings before they were posted?

Download the guide, The Secret to Getting to the Front of the Line, and learn how to access the hidden job market.

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