At some point in our careers, this is something most of us we’ll have to face. Sometimes the decision is made for you through downsizing or new technology that makes your job obsolete. Maybe you’ve reached retirement age and it truly is time to move on. Quite often you’ll find you’ve outgrown the position. It’s time for you to transition to something new and more challenging. But what if you’re in a job you really hate and you just can’t take it anymore?
Going to work is such a struggle for you. You actually hate going and you live for the weekend. When things seem this bad, many people will hand in their notice out of a feeling of desperation. You choose to quit because you hate the job so much, or hate the people in it. Maybe you just feel like you are not paid enough for all the work you do. But when you hand in your notice out of desperation, you really aren’t prepared for what comes next.
Before you quit your job, you should have a plan in place and possibly a new job already lined up. But if you’ve handed in your notice and you’re not sure what to do next, don’t panic. Here are a few strategies that can help you find a new position in no time.
Keep Yourself Employable
Being without a job might seem like fun at first, but it does get really tough when money starts draining away. One of the best ways you can keep yourself employable is to go and do things like volunteering. Try to find a volunteer position in an industry related to the type of work you want to do. This puts you in such a better position for hiring. It also shows your willingness to work. It lets people know you’re hard-working and dedicated to staying current in your career field.
Go For Your Dream Job
Something to stop and think about is why exactly did you hand in your notice so abruptly. One of the reasons might be because you discovered what your dream job is. You would rather spend your days doing that rather than wasting time in a job you don’t like. But to land that dream job, you might have to put in some extra effort.
For example, if you were interested in lean manufacturing, you may need to consider taking some online classes to gain the knowledge you need. Positions like these often require some type of degree or at least certain classes. Taking the initiative by taking the classes would put you in a great position to be hired for the role. It’s all about realizing what it’s going to take to get you to your dream job, and getting there!
Going Through The Hiring Process
Then there is the hard part. You have to put yourself out there and apply for the various positions. For some people, this is can be difficult, especially if you haven’t had to look for a position in some time. Make an effort every day to do something related to your job search. It can be meeting for an informational interview, networking or submitting your resume to a company. If you find yourself struggling in this area, consider working with a career coach or counselor. They can help you explore career fields, write your resume, and prepare for interviews. They can also assist in providing support, guiding you and helping you stay motivated throughout the process.
If you find yourself dreading going to work and you are ready to transition to something new, have a plan before you quit. Even if you have already given your notice and you aren’t sure what to do, start by creating a plan and include these strategies. If you find yourself stuck and you’re looking for a career coach to work with, send me an email at cowens@infinitycoaching.net. Together we can create a plan that will have you on a new career path in no time.
Carolyn R. Owens has over 25 years of proven experience and serves as a Career Strategist, Executive and Leadership Coach. She is the President of Infinity Coaching, Inc. where she can help you up-level your skills, so you can up-level your income, career, business or life. Infinity Coaching, Inc. provides coaching, organizational training, personality assessments, and a signature program, the Infinity Coaching Inner Circle. Carolyn is certified to give both The Energy Leadership Index Assessment and Myers Briggs Type Indicator Assessment. You can find out more about both assessments and other products and services at https://infinitycoaching.net.
