Career Tips for 2016

SEASON’S GREETINGS AND CAREER WISHES FOR EVERYONE IN THE NEW YEAR.....

Over the past 19 years I have had the privilege and opportunity to meet and work with several thousand individuals from every career field, and industry, all with unique personalities....all with their own story to tell and their own challenges to tackle.  Each and every person has been amazing and interesting, blessing my life and my career in so many ways, and I thank you.

Through the years, I have experienced firsthand and through the people I work with the emotional rollercoaster that is our working life – exhilaration, tremendous fear and anxiety, the urge to stop, the anticipation of change, the joy and excitement, relief and so much more....given we spend 40 or 50 years working, everyone has to deal with so very much – the good, the bad and the ugly! 

As I look ahead to 2016 I have many thoughts about our ever evolving and changing world of work that will impact people regardless of where you are in your career journey....so as we wrap up 2015 I want to leave this year by sharing some career tips for 2016 that infuses some hope, encourages reflection, and encourages continued giving, sharing and supporting others on the world of work rollercoaster.

For those who are currently or will be seeking new opportunities in the coming year – always remember that there are opportunities everywhere; we just need to stretch outside of our comfort zone and be creative when tapping into these opportunities.

Know that you have talents and experiences to offer the world – determine what they are and articulate them to those that will need your valuable contributions – oh the world has so many needs...find them!!

No one is perfect, we are wonderfully flawed human beings, so own your flaws and mistakes, acknowledge others flaws and mistakes, but don’t let these flaws become centre stage throughout your journey – focus on the opportunities and situations that use your strengths and talents!

Be fearless – when you want something, go for it!  Be prepared, be appropriate and be ready for what can happen when you shift from fearful to fearless, but not arrogant!

Be true to yourself – There is no perfect job, workplace or person but knowing your core values and your deal breakers will help you to determine when to accept situations and opportunities and when to walk away for the sake of your health.

Know that nothing stays the same – usually when the unexpected happens, we are taken off guard, so take a moment to gain your footing and then focus on all the opportunities and positives that will occur due to the change.  I know that every time there is a change, there is positive and negative outcomes – you can choose which you focus on.

I believe the wisest people are those who constantly pay attention to the world beyond themselves, who seek wisdom from others, those who open their minds to different perspectives while staying true to their core values.  Be wise in 2016!

For everyone, one of the most powerful gifts you can give another person in relation to their working life is the willingness to have a career conversation...to share advice, give feedback, and just listen.  By saying YES to someone’s request to have a conversations with you can literally change someone’s life. 

My philosophy has always been ‘unmet needs and idle human beings co-exist’....so always remember that regardless of what the media reports on our economy, our unemployment etc., there is a place for everyone in the world of work!

Be safe, stay healthy and see you in the new year....

Lynn McCabe, a career coach and career transition consultant with LAM & Associates