If you’re gearing up to relaunch your career after a hiatus or pivot into a new field, you can glean valuable insights from those who have navigated similar transitions. Whether due to life circumstances, personal choices, or industry changes, many people find their resumes resembling Swiss cheese—full of gaps and varied experiences.
At Lead with Curiosity, we’ve gathered some tips to help you successfully navigate your career relaunch, drawing on the collective wisdom of those who have mastered the art of the career pivot.
While a relaunch might look different for everyone, these tips can be applied to any journey.
Tip #1 - Make Time for Goal Setting
Why do you want to return to work? For some, work might be tied to self-worth, confidence, or fulfillment. For others, it could be about financial stability. Take the time to define your goals. There are no right answers, only what’s right for you and your current season of life.
Goal setting often extends beyond personal ambitions to family goals. Discuss your plans with your partner to understand how they might impact your household. Having these conversations early on allows you to approach changes as a team.
Tip #2 - Think About Your Skills Differently
Sometimes, we are too close to our own skills and quickly discount our superpowers. To gain a fresh perspective, explore tools like CliftonStrengths® to uncover and understand your unique talents. Curiosity is key here—ask yourself, "What are my natural strengths, and how can they shine in new roles?"
Seek feedback from others who know your work well, whether from past experiences or volunteer roles. Their insights can reveal strengths you might have overlooked. Embrace this curiosity to highlight how your skills can adapt and add value across different industries.
Tip #3 - Define How You Want To Work
The rise of remote work is both a blessing and a curse. The blessing is that you can now find and keep a job regardless of where you live. The curse is that you’ll need to find a job that fits both your skills and your preferred work environment (hybrid, remote, or in-person).
Before you begin your relaunch, decide what you truly want. If you’ve never worked remotely, talk to friends who do and learn about their experiences—what they love and what they don’t. Be honest about your preferences and ensure your search aligns with them.
Tip #4 - Prioritize Available Resources
Not every resource is right for every job seeker. Focus on those that fit your current needs and goals. Resources can include job fairs, career counseling services, resume workshops, interview preparation, fellowships, and networking opportunities. Don’t forget to utilize LinkedIn to support your networking efforts.
Tip #5 - Consider Entrepreneurship
Freelance, contract, and service-based businesses are gaining traction in our economy. Starting a business or pursuing freelance work can be a great option for those seeking more career flexibility.
If you’re interested in entrepreneurship, consider taking courses or attending local workshops to develop your skills. Various Small Business Administration resources are available for entrepreneurs, including grants, mentorship, and funding opportunities.
Tip #6 - Be Flexible and Adaptable
Think creatively, adjust your goals for the season, and take breaks if needed—options you should embrace unapologetically. This is your life, your family, and your dream; comparison serves no one, least of all you and your path.
For every story of someone who found the perfect relaunch position, there is a story of someone who took a chance on something unexpected and discovered new purpose and fulfillment. Be clear on your goals and values, and remain open to the unexpected.
Tip #7 - Lean On Your Community
Lean on those who have been there. Ask them about their favorite resources and which ones fell short. Request introductions to people in their network who align with your goals. If they had a successful relaunch, inquire about what they would do differently. You’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed or underqualified. The more time you've been away from employment, the deeper these feelings may be. Reach out, ask for help, and believe in your worthiness of support.
If you’re not on LinkedIn, now is the time to join. The professional community on LinkedIn is invaluable. Ask your questions, and you’ll likely receive a wealth of resources from others who understand the challenges of relaunching a career.
Tip #8 - Consider Hiring a Coach
Navigating a career relaunch can be daunting, but hiring a coach can provide invaluable support. A coach offers personalized guidance, helping you clarify your goals, develop a strategic plan, and stay accountable. Specifically, a strengths coach can be a game-changer.
They use tools like CliftonStrengths® to help you identify and leverage your unique talents, ensuring you align your career choices with your inherent strengths. This tailored approach enhances your self-awareness and boosts your confidence as you step into new roles. Investing in a coach is investing in your future success. Review our tips for finding a coach, here.
Final Thoughts: Relaunching or pivoting your career can be challenging, but it's entirely possible with careful planning and consideration. By identifying your goals and priorities, recognizing your transferable skills, exploring remote work options, and leveraging your network and resources, you can carve out something new and exciting for yourself.
Ready to relaunch your career with confidence? Dive into these strategies and start implementing them today. For personalized support, consider partnering with a coach who can help you navigate your journey and leverage your unique strengths. At Lead with Curiosity, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us now to explore how our coaching services can make your career relaunch a success.
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