From an early age, we are asked, “Who do you want to become?” – a question that subtly implies we should choose one path to follow, one profession to define us. We’re made into decision-makers, with the indirect suggestion that although it’s okay not to know exactly what we want to do in life, if we don’t choose correctly, it could define our whole course.
This perception places an immense burden on us, creating a rooted belief that we must stick to a single trajectory.
Career development, on the opposite spectrum, recognizes that as we grow, so do our experiences and skills; therefore, we can’t be defined by any one single experience.
While some people find their dream jobs rather quickly (and good for them), it’s perfectly okay if you’re one of those still on a journey of career discovery.
Our Career Path Isn’t Linear
As a child, my vision for a dream career was simple; I was going to be a singer. I still remember the excitement of unwrapping an electronic piano with a small microphone for Christmas and spending hours practicing my first melodies. Yet, as I grew older, a need for more practicality kicked in, and I began to question how I could pursue something creative that would also meet others’ expectations of a stable career.
That’s when I discovered journalism – a perfect balance of creativity and structure. However, even after completing my bachelor’s studies, I still felt like something was missing. Rediscovering my passion for English and storytelling, I decided to turn the wheel in a different direction and enrolled in a Creative Writing program.
Maybe you’re wondering why I am telling you this, and perhaps thinking this ‘switch’ wasn’t so difficult since both programmes share some similarities. While I completely agree, the point I’m making is that in our careers, we often find ourselves caught between multiple identities, unsure exactly where we stand. Even now, I don’t consider myself solely journalist or creative writer, but rather something in-between.
The skills you obtain from one job or one program can turn out to be incredibly valuable in your next role.
The Myth Behind ‘New’
Our society often promotes the idea of a “fresh start” as a way to escape our past difficulties or disappointments. We’re constantly surrounded by phrases like, ‘This new product will transform your home,’ or ‘Try our new fitness plan and change your life.’
While new beginnings can definitely be a powerful force for a positive change, helping us replace aspects of our lives that no longer serve us, it’s important to recognize that our careers – just like our personal experiences – evolve over time, shaping who we are today.
The skills and lessons we acquire from our past job roles pave the way for future opportunities.
Rather than starting from scratch, we can build upon what we’ve already learned, carrying forward our abilities, insights and resilience. This ongoing process strengthens our adaptability, helping us stand out in future roles.
In fact, this adaptability can be very appealing to employers, who often seek candidates with the ability to transfer their skills effectively.
Identify your Transferable Skills
The job market is gradually embracing skills-based hiring, a trend that has gained more popularity in recent years. Rather than focusing on traditional job requirements like a degree or minimum years of experience, companies prioritize candidates with the right skills for the job. So, if you’re able to demonstrate how your skills match the company’s needs, your chances of being hired will naturally increase.
But how do you identify your transferable skills?
While each role has its own requirements, many skills can be applied universally. Let’s look at communication. Good communication is a skill highly valued in nearly every profession, whether you’re in customer service, healthcare or business.
Knowing how to communicate your thoughts in a clear and straightforward way not only improves your interactions with colleagues and clients but also contributes to to a positive work environment and greater productivity.
If you know how to address unexpected situations and cope when stress arises, you can add another great skill to your resume – which is problem solving. If you’ve ever handled a difficult customer or needed to address and unexpected issue, you’ve likely demonstrated problem-solving abilities.
In a different context, like IT, problem-solving would look like diagnosing a technical issue and resolving it with your technological knowledge.
While some job transitions may require additional qualifications, many roles today focus on how existing skills can be applied in new settings. No matter where your career journey takes you, the skills you’ve developed from your past experiences can become a strong foundation to build upon in your next job.
Know You’re not Alone
According to statistics from 2023, 91% of millennials change their jobs every three years.
This number reflects a growing trend of people searching for greater fulfillment, work-life balance, and a sense of purpose in their careers.
As our world evolves, so do our beliefs. The traditional notion of staying in one job for decades is becoming forgotten, as people are seeking roles that align with their passions, and which provide flexibility. This shift in mindset is not only seen in millennials but across all generations, redefining what success looks like.
If you’re feeling uncertain or worried about making a career change, remember that you are a part of a much larger, global movement. Our careers are a journey, shaped by continuous learning. You should be proud of yourself for thinking outside of the box and finding the courage to seek opportunities that simply work better for you.
Embrace Your Unique Career Journey
Sometimes we find ourselves at unknown crossroads, unsure of which direction to take.
But with a little patience and courage, we eventually find our way forward. Shifting roles is not a step backward but a valuable opportunity for growth, adaptability and resilience.
So, the next time someone refers to your path as a ‘new career,’ gently correct them.
Explain that your career is a puzzle made of diverse experiences that have shaped the knowledge and skills you have today. Embrace your unique career path and treasure every piece along the way – after all, the puzzle wouldn’t be complete if one of them was missing.
At ELE Hub, we are here to support you with your career and employability. Attend our upcoming event ‘Help for Career Changers’ where you will have the opportunity to ask top experts your questions and connect to practical experience opportunities.
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