Welcome to BW’s Smart Money podcast, where we answer your real-world money questions. In this episode:
Learn how to decide if it’s time to change jobs or careers and understand how to strategize before you make a big career move. How do you know if it’s time to leave your job? What steps should you take before making a big career move? Host Sean Pyles talks to author and SiriusXM host Dawn Graham about how to evaluate your current job satisfaction and recognize the signs that it might be time for a change. They discuss identifying personal values, assessing career alignment, and tips for navigating conversations with managers. They also delve into strategies for approaching major career shifts, from exploring new fields to building the skills and network necessary to succeed. They discuss actionable strategies for testing a new career path, overcoming the challenges of starting over, and networking effectively to stand out.
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How is the job going? Are you generally satisfied with your career and daily grind, or are you thinking it might be time for a change? It’s a new year, and change is in the air. How do you know if it’s time to go?
Whether you’re in a job search now or will be soon, remember the value you bring to the market. Confidence breeds confidence, and you have a lot to offer.
Welcome to BW’s Smart Money podcast. Host Sean Pyles explores how to know when it’s time to move on from your current job situation. Whether looking for a change within your current company or outside, there’s much to consider, from pay to workplace environment to personal goals.
Today, we talk with careers expert Dawn Graham about questions to ask yourself when considering a career change and advice on how to start the process without jeopardizing your current position.
We want to hear from you! Are you thinking about making changes to your job or career in the new year? Leave us a voicemail or text the Nerd hotline at (901) 730-6373 or email a voice memo to [email protected]
Our guest today is Dawn Graham, a corporate psychologist, career switch coach, and author of “Switchers: How Smart Professionals Change Careers and Seize Success.” Welcome, Dawn!
Let’s start with the basics. How do you know when it’s time to start looking for a new job? What signs should you pay attention to?
One of the biggest signs is feeling stagnant and not growing in your current position. Building your skill set and staying relevant in a changing world are key factors to consider.
If you find yourself in a challenging work situation or your work environment no longer aligns with your family needs, it may be time to consider making a change. Whether it’s a shift in your role or a desire for something new, there are many reasons why people choose to look for new opportunities.
When considering a new job or a new career, it’s important to reflect on your values and what is important to you. If being present for family dinners is a priority, for example, it’s crucial to ensure that your career choices support that value.
Making a career switch can be intimidating, but it’s important to identify what you want and why you want it. This may require stepping outside of your comfort zone and being open to new challenges.
If you’re looking for a new job within the same career field, it’s essential to understand where your professional energy lies and what activities energize you. By identifying these aspects, you can seek out opportunities that align with your interests and values. Additionally, networking and seeking advice from professionals in similar roles can provide valuable insight into potential career paths.
Ultimately, whether you’re considering a new job or a new career, it’s important to prioritize your values and professional goals to ensure that your choices align with your overall well-being and happiness. Could you spare 15-20 minutes of your time to share with me what your typical day looks like?” Do those closest to you understand your career goals and aspirations? Are they aware of your desire for something new, specifically? I challenge you to ask those who know you well to describe your job in detail, not just a general idea. Often, our cheerleaders and supporters have no clue about the specifics of our work.
To reignite your passion for your current job, first identify the source of your lack of inspiration. Is it the job itself or external factors? Reflect on what initially drew you to the job and focus on the positive aspects that allow you to do things you enjoy. If you still struggle to find fulfillment, it may be time to consider a change.
If you’re contemplating a complete career switch, consider what you’re willing to sacrifice. This could include salary, time spent gaining new skills, or adjusting to a different work environment. Be prepared to potentially give up autonomy, relationships, or other comforts you’ve built in your current career. Transitioning to a new career may require starting from the bottom, paying for certifications, or facing ego challenges. It’s important to be realistic about the sacrifices and challenges that come with pursuing a new career path. What are some ways to begin making progress in a new field? It may be necessary to return to school in some cases. However, going back to school should not be your first step. Unless you are entering a highly regulated field like nursing, simply obtaining a degree may not guarantee a job at the end. It is important to remember that the brain is wired to seek the easiest path, but in a career switch, this may not be the most effective approach.
Instead of immediately pursuing a degree, consider shadowing professionals in the field, reaching out to industry experts, and building relationships with them. Take the time to explore the intricacies of the career you are interested in and try different roles to see what fits best. It is essential to be comfortable with ambiguity and self-direction when embarking on a career change.
If you are unsure of which career path to pursue, start by exploring different options and having conversations with professionals in various fields. Create experiments, build connections, and evaluate your options to gradually narrow down your choices. This iterative process may require trying out different roles, volunteering, or taking on projects to gain a better understanding of the career landscape.
To position yourself in front of decision-makers in your desired field, be bold and proactive. Networking is key, so reach out to individuals within the industry, including hiring managers and professionals in relevant departments. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to connect with key players and establish yourself as a known entity within the company. Building relationships strategically and focusing on a clear Plan A can increase your chances of securing a job in your target field.
Changing careers can be emotionally challenging, especially if it means starting at a lower level. It is important to be prepared for the potential hit to your ego and be willing to work your way up the ladder in your new field. Adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to learn and grow are essential qualities for success in a new career. To navigate through the discomfort of being in a challenging mental space, it’s crucial to anticipate and acknowledge the tough emotions that may arise. By preparing yourself for the discomfort, it can soften the impact when it hits. Avoid falling into the trap of comparison, as everyone’s journey is unique and comparing yourself to others can only lead to negative feelings.
Seek guidance from individuals who have gone through similar experiences. Remember that what you see online is often a curated version of reality, so don’t make assumptions based on someone’s polished profile. When considering a career change, the decision of whether to stay in your current job or take a break to explore new opportunities is significant.
In today’s competitive job market, it’s generally advisable to secure a new job before leaving your current one. However, if feasible, starting a side project, consulting business, or gaining additional skills can enhance your prospects. Building a strong foundation before actively seeking new roles can make a significant difference in how you are perceived during interviews and networking opportunities.
Looking ahead to 2025, remember that your sense of security should come from within. Your skills, experiences, and relationships are valuable assets that you carry with you, regardless of your job title or company affiliation. Maintaining confidence in your abilities is key to navigating career transitions with resilience and self-assurance.
As we conclude our series on financial matters, remember to listen to previous episodes on budgeting, housing, investing, and financial goals to help you achieve your money-related objectives in the upcoming year. If you have any financial questions, feel free to reach out to the Nerds for guidance. Stay informed and follow the show on your preferred podcast platform for new episodes.
This episode was crafted by Tess Vigeland, with editing assistance. Thank you to Amanda Derengowski for fact-checking and Megan Maurer for audio mixing. Special thanks to BW’s editors for their support. Please note that the information provided is for educational and entertainment purposes only and may not be applicable to your specific situation. Until next time, rely on the Nerds for financial insights and advice. sentence: Please make sure to lock the door before you leave the house. sentence using different words:
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