Finding a new job in the midst of layoffs, furloughs and economic uncertainty seems like a nightmare. Endless applications and hours of searching can make you feel discouraged and wary. Fortunately, there are many options for new career moves for those still looking for them.
We asked ten thought leaders to recommend options for those who are seeking their next career moves and opportunities. Below, find ideas and suggestions for different paths you may not have considered before.
Beauty and Wellness
The Beauty and Wellness industry is in constant demand for qualified, creative and well-trained professionals. Working in this industry allows you to meet all different kinds of people and aid in improving their self-esteem. It is a rewarding industry to build a career in and if you are innovative and ambitious, there is no limit to your potential.
Vanessa Molica, The Lash Professional
Help Others
When you feel stuck in your current career path, why not help others find their own career path? Working for a recruiting or staffing agency could open the door to an exciting career that changes day to day and opens your eyes to all the exciting industries and positions that exist.
Denise Gredler, BestCompaniesAZ
Align Your Mission With Theirs
Making a career change can be as simple as doing a job you are already qualified to do at a company you are passionate about. Culture is an important part of combating employee burnout. Do your research on companies with mission statements and values that speak to you, and take your skills to non-profit organizations or startups that will give you the change you are needing in your career.
Reach Out for Informational Interviews
Consider reaching out and conducting some informational interviews with leaders in areas in which you’re interested. How did those professionals get started in that industry? What were some of the hurdles? What should they do to prepare for a similar journey? Many professionals are happy to pay it forward by helping others get a new start or a head’s up on a possible new career.
Colleen McManus, Senior Consultant
Sourcing and Supply Chain Management
The outbreak of COVID-19 has really illustrated how fragile our supply chain can be. With many businesses shut down permanently and even more treading in that direction, there is going to be an increasing demand for quality Sourcing and Supply Chain Management professionals. Every company will need to reevaluate their supply chain and find opportunities to become more efficient and eliminate risks. When recessions hit, professionals who can save a company money while improving operations are very valuable.
Adam Sanders, Successful Release
Discover Flexibility in the Job Search Market
Most folks have more career options than they realize. I have seen retail managers become Human Resources pros, bank managers become corporate trainers and nurses become top medical equipment salespeople. The first step is the job market research. Check out actual job postings to determine if your experience can be reframed to fit the qualifications for that job.
Joni Holderman, Thrive! Resumes
Focus on Long Term Ambitions
Think about the skills you need to be successful in your end objective and look for roles that help you build or further this skill set. For example, if your long term goal is to be an entrepreneur, but you’re in the 9-5 grind, think about what roles can allow you to take ownership and bias for action, both vital for success in business.
Ahmed Mir, Nature and Bloom
Find Jobs the Provide the Most Fulfillment
If you are an experienced professional, look back at your previous job experience and find the tasks and jobs that provided you with the most fulfillment. Look for the things that made you the happiest in your professional career. If you have just graduated from school, do the same thing with the classes you took or your personal interests. Choose a career that you can be passionate about because we spend over half of our lives at work.
Dana Felix, HR Analyst
Be Prepared for Your Future Career Move
Although there might not be many job opportunities available at this time, it’s important to stay excited about your future career move and be prepared for it. In the meantime, focus on networking and building relationships with the people who can help you get in when the opportunity does become available. Additionally, take courses to build your skillset, update your resumé, and monitor LinkedIn for new opportunities.
Grecia Olachea, Education SEO Company
Consider What You Want Next
Before making a career move, take inventory of your current skills and your ideal work culture and environment. This is also a good time to consider if you want to continue working a traditional job or would like to look at contract work or starting your own business. There are several websites that provide surveys and resources to help narrow down a search. Additionally, working with a career coach or executive coach might be worth considering.
Nicole Spracale, Coaching & Consulting