Figuring Out Your Next Big Thing
Kent R.
“I need to change careers. What should I do?”
I can’t answer that question. That is heavy lifting that you have to do. But that doesn’t mean I can’t help.
In a recent post on the value of the resume writing process, I wrote about the clarity that a new resume can provide and how that clarity can help you determine your next big thing. However, the frequency with which I get that question made me think that I should probably provide another tip on how to figure out what your next big thing might be.
Believe it or not, your resume may contain clues that can serve as guideposts and help you start answering the “what's next?” questions.
Start by ignoring your titles.
When you love what you do, you tend to do it well. And when you do something well, you tend to excel. So obscure your titles and responsibilities and just look at your achievements. Now ask yourself “why did I do it so well?” That answer is a guidepost as to what energizes you. And whatever you do next should require that you do a lot more of what energizes you. Period. Keep in mind, though, that just because you're good at something, it may not energize you. Be aware of that distinction.
When it comes right down to it, you can’t figure out your next big thing until you figure out you. If you need help, reach out. Sometimes the process of creating a new resume is just the boost you need. And sometimes you need to dig deeper. Either way, I can help.