This economic slowdown has played havoc on so many of our jobs and careers. Even if you have a job that is fine, you most likely know someone who is unemployed, under-employed or just not happy at their current job. This uncertainty is exactly what may have you thinking about your own career choice.
Spherion just came out with a survey that says 54%of current employees are going to look for new jobs once the economy starts growing. Are you in this 54%? If you think you are, this is a good thing! The recession most likely has given you a chance to examine closely the strength of the industry you are in, your specific job, your company and most importantly your future. It is always easy to assume you have a great job when the economy is booming, but a recession allows you to take a personal career inventory.
What can a recession teach you about your career?
1) The strength of your industry. The construction industry is hurting right now. If you have been a homebuilder for the last 15 years, what did you do during this time that will transfer into other industries until this one rebounds?
2) The strength of your company. If you are in the insurance industry, why are some companies laying off while others are hiring? Companies can’t hide behind bad financial statements during a recession.
3) The strength of your job. Where you first to be let go? If so, was it because your job wasn’t bottom line significant? What will you do to change that in your next job?
4) Education and Training. Where you still learning new skills even though things were going great before the recession?
5) Wrong career choice from the beginning? It happens, but in a recession this causes you to really dislike your job because you usually have to work longer hours and always feel like you are on a hot seat to produce results. Time to move to another career.
6) How important it is to maximize earning potential in the good times. Did you have opportunities that you turned down when things were going well? In times like today, many new programs and promotions are all being put on hold.
The good news is the recession will pass. You can have what you want in a career if you answer these six things honestly and then make the changes. If you are claims adjuster and enjoy your job, are you working for the best company in the world? If not, you may not be maximizing your future potential.