A Model of Career Change: Part 2

Last week I discussed a different take on traditional approaches to career planning. Viewing an individual’s career aspirations through the lens of self-understanding, planning and implementation is a tough-ask when you are stuck in a career rut. So, I raised the idea of our Do-Meet-Be model of career planning, which focusses on taking action. The first step looked at the “Do” part of the model. This week, I introduce the second component.

Step 2: Meet. The biggest single hurdle to shifting career is not having any networks in areas outside your past experience. Many people stay in their ‘rut’ because they don’t have the networks - and therefore the information, leads and ideas – that will help them find other opportunities.

By doing different activities you’ll meet different people. These people will expose you to new ideas and new possibilities that you hadn’t previously considered. Attending events or having a one-on-one coffee with someone outside your normal sphere of friends is a great way to meet different people. Think about someone who you’ve met only once or twice through a mutual friend – acquaintances are a great start. Give them a call and ask about their career story or organise a more formalised setting to undertake an informational interview.

Increasing your exposure to new ideas through exploring other people’s ideas and garnering knowledge means you will be more equipped to start formulating your goals. You’ll also get the heads up about possible opportunities.

I’ll discuss next week Step 3: Be in the final part of this blog series.