In today's economy, many people are concerned about their future as an employee of XYZ Corporation or ABC Agency. If you are someone who is wondering what tomorrow brings, it would be better to use that energy and time taking some positive actions instead of just "wondering".
To begin with, if you do not have a resume, or your resume is not up to date, that is where you need to start. even if you do not need to (or have to) look for a different job right now, I think it is always good to have an up-to-date resume. For one thing, if you have been working for very long in in the same position, you are likely doing some tasks that you did not do when you started. The best way to keep track of your accomplishments and job changes is to have it written down. Not only does that mean you will be closer to a 'ready' resume, if you need it unexpectedly, but it can also be a boost to your esteem to remember what you have accomplished over the last few years.
Of course, many people use the opportunity provided to them to look for a different line of work. Some of the people I have worked with whose positions were being eliminated were actually ok with the opportunity. Maybe they had been unhappy for some time, but did not feel a real push to do anything about it. Having their position eliminated gave them an opportunity to create a work experience that was more in line with their current interests and skills. Other clients decided to continue their education and needed a resume to go with their application to graduate school. So, I update my resume at least once a year, whether I need it or not.
Additionally, if you have not really thought about what you would like to do next, you can use this time to think about the kind of work you would like to do - if given the opportunity. I generally encourage my clients to consider their interests, skills and abilities, values, and personality strengths in considering what type of work would be a good fit for them. If you need some help doing an assessment, that is certainly available.
Once you have clarified what you know about your self, then you may need to learn more about the world of work. New jobs are being added to the Dictionary of Occupational Titles (published by the Department of Labor) practically every day. Doing a little research to learn more about some of the job titles that exist can be helpful. Additionally, you may need to know whether the kind of work you want to do next is likely to be readily available or hard to find type of job.
By doing some of that research and assessment now, you can begin to clarify what you would like to do next and develop a plan to get there - on your time schedule perhaps, not your employer's.
Mary Ann Davis, M.A., is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), designated as a Master Career Counselor (MCC) by the National Career Development Association, and a Distance Credentialed Counselor (DCC). In addition to over 20 years' experience as a career counselor and coach, she also has years of experience as a college academic advisor. She provides career coaching and counseling for life's transitions in person at Holistic Counseling Care of Cincinnati and at a distance through Your Career Plan.
Visit her web site at www.YourCareerPlan.com. Contact Ms. Davis at (513) 665-4444 x3 or YourCareerPlan@cinci.rr.com.
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