Small steps can lead to large career gains

Careers in the News: According to a large majority of career experts, a recession does not signify the inevitable death of all career aspirations.  No matter the financial downturn, unhappy workers can always be taking small steps toward more satisfying careers.

While a stable paycheck is undoubtedly cardinal in a poor economy, an unfulfilled employee should spend his or her free hours striving for career satisfaction; whether that is changing industries, starting a business, or advancing within one’s current field.  This can be accomplished by interning, volunteering, an informational interview, and shadowing.  Also, such employees should not simply chalk up the hours spent at a ‘survival job’ as a necessary evil.  Alternatively, they may use this time to take on projects and assignments that are relevant to real passions and career dreams.  One might gain some valuable insights into marketing, branding, accounting, computer systems, etc.  - but will never know until he or she branches out.

And remember, whenever you are feeling disheartened at your ‘9-5,’ and feel the sudden urge to write a prolific blast-email to everyone via Tom Cruise in Jerry Maguire, focus on Bill Murray’s mantra in What about Bob? instead: “I’m baby stepping Doc, I’m baby stepping!”

Written by Amberly Scott

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Image by William Hook