Save yourself time and years

Stuck in a career that is unfulfilling and not sure how to go about getting into something different? A little forethought before applying for your next role may save you years – literally. It is very common for a person to have multiple jobs in different areas or disciplines within their working career. For baby boomers the figure was about 2-3 different roles across their working life. Nowadays, the figure is more like 6-7! Why? We live in an age where there is more choice, more acceptability and understanding with wanting to pursue something that will lead to a fulfilling career, and ultimately giving your employer the best performance you possibly can.

Too many roles within a short period of time

This doesn’t, however, mean that having multiple jobs is ok within a short period of time. Having too many changes in roles within a short period of time (say, 5 years), is an indication of two things.

Firstly, that you have been unfulfilled in your roles and keep changing your mind. This suggests that you are unable to learn from your choices to ultimately make the best decision for your career, and that you change your mind before giving something a ‘real go’. This shows lack of commitment.

Secondly, that you are incompetent at your role and you have been let go a few times (or have had a mix of both – usually from desperation in finding a new role). Neither of the above is attractive to an employer. What is attractive to an employer is someone who knows what they want and has their goals aligned with the employer’s goals. This shows forethought and someone who is driven by accomplishment.

Is it a bad thing to have multiple changes on your resume? It depends on the time in your life that you are looking for a new role. If you are in a stage where you are feeling unfulfilled; rather than look for another opportunity for the sake of securing a job (we all have our financial pressures), take a moment to really think about what it is that you are good at and what it is that you want to achieve.  If you don’t, you could end up taking a role that sound great, and then realising a few months later that it isn’t what you really wanted. This will then lead to a lack in engagement and performance and ultimately will lead to you either looking for another role or being let go – all within 6 – 12 months.

If you have taken this on board, you may have had a few changes in the past, but the next role you apply for will show the employer that you truly are passionate about that choice and you will find, if it turns out to be true, that you will have been in the same role for at least 2 years before contemplating another position. Why? Because you are feeling more fulfilled and enjoying what you do.

As the saying goes:

“If you love the work you do, you won’t have to work another day in your life”

If you would like some advice on how to approach your next career opportunity, call us for a confidential discussion. We’re sure that we can help you find something that will fulfill you and give you the confidence to approach new employers and land that dream job!