Education & Career Trends: July 11, 2024
Curated by the Knowledge Team of ICS Career GPS
Excerpts are taken from an article by Caroline Ceniza-Levine, published on forbes.com.
Feeling stuck in a job that drains your energy? The dilemma of wanting change but being too busy to pursue it can be overwhelming. That’s where the concept of a “transitional job” comes in—a bridge that allows you to maintain financial stability while regaining clarity and pursuing new career avenues.
A transitional job serves as a temporary escape from professional dissatisfaction, providing both financial support and the space needed to recharge and strategies.
Here are Some Approaches to Finding the Right Transitional Job:
- Consulting and Project Work: Consider leveraging your skills through consulting or project-based roles. Agencies specialising in temporary placements can connect you with short-term projects, offering flexibility and exposure to diverse environments. This not only keeps your skills sharp but also expands your professional network, potentially leading to long-term opportunities.
- Align with Passion: Explore opportunities in fields aligned with your hobbies and passions. Whether it’s working at a museum, theatre, or media company, transitioning into a role that resonates with your interests can rejuvenate your career outlook. Even if the role is entry-level, the experience gained and enthusiasm shown for your passion can impress future employers.
- Target Companies of Interest: Directly pursuing roles at companies you admire can provide insights into their operations and culture. While immediate openings may not always be available, networking and demonstrating your commitment to their mission can open doors for future roles. Plus, working at a company you admire can provide personal satisfaction and potential discounts on their products or services.
- Explore University Roles: Universities offer diverse opportunities beyond traditional academia. Leverage your administrative and organisational skills in roles supporting admissions, alumni affairs, or career services. Being an alum can give you an advantage in the hiring process, although be prepared for potentially longer hiring timelines.
- Balancing Financial Needs with Career Growth: Sometimes, you may need to take on strictly-for-the-money jobs temporarily. Pairing these roles with pro bono or volunteer work related to your career interests keeps your skills current and expands your network. This approach allows you to manage immediate financial needs while actively pursuing long-term career goals.
Conclusion
Navigating a career transition requires a strategic approach to balance immediate needs with long-term aspirations. Whether through consulting, aligning with passions, targeting specific companies, exploring university roles, or balancing financial jobs with pro bono opportunities, each pathway offers unique benefits and challenges.
Embrace the transitional job as a stepping stone towards a fulfilling career change, where every experience contributes to your professional growth and personal satisfaction.
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Have you checked out yesterday’s blog yet?
Emerging Trends in Management Careers
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the article mentioned above are those of the author(s). They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of ICS Career GPS or its staff.)
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