Career change clients often come with a series of expectations that are not realistic. It’s not surprising: books and television shows can give you the wrong idea. Here are 3 myths to demolish right away.
“Career change follow a recipe.” Actually, every person’s path is different. You’ll have a different game plan depending on your industry, location, experience, and ability to relocate. And it’s more like a zigzag (or a feeling that you’re in the eye of a hurricane) than a straight line.
“Career tests will tell you what to do.” Career tests will tell you that you are very good at doing what you’ve done for the last 10 years. More here.
“Career change happens fast.” Some clients say things like, “My husband says I need to get over this. It’s been six months already.” Or, “I’ve been searching for a new path for a long time now. What’s the holdup?”
In reality, career change can take as long as three years, sometimes more. Often your greatest challenge is simply taking time to explore. For more, listen to the replay of my Blog Talk Radio show on this topic.
To learn more, Career coaching starts here.
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Boy, you’ve said a mouthful! I set out to make a career change almost two years ago. I’d have to sound out emphatically, vociferously, and vehemently that career change takes a long time. And I’m convinced that luck, chance, and a whole bucket full of serendipity are vital elements in making a career change.