Taking charge of your own destiny is what we are all about here at The JA and here we are offering you some advice that should illuminate your career trajectory. It’s good to know where you are going before you decide whether or not it’s the right direction. So, in true JA fashion here are some questions to ask yourself to get the root of your feelings of dissatisfaction.
Are you Earning Enough?
I know, I know, your dream career isn’t all about money. We work because we love what we do, or at least that should be the case. However, it is important to know your worth and the amount you earn should be reflective of how much work you put in. If you believe you aren’t paid enough for your skills, don’t be afraid to speak up. We will speak more about asking for a pay rise in another article, soon.
Is it too Easy?
Being paid to perform tasks means your boss trusts you & you are competent enough to complete those tasks. After a while this gets tedious and you need opportunities to test yourself. Not that it isn’t nice to know you’re supremely competent but new challenges met and bested means you will grow. Re-start your career with a change of scenery maybe. We recently published an article where we explained why good employees quit. Check that out if you feel like you need some more reasons to take the plunge.
What are they Saying?
Apart from reading this article (well done you), there are other sources of information. The primary reservoir of wisdom you should be nourishing yourself from is, well, yourself. This sometimes can give you tunnel-vision, though. Fresh eyes and giving your lens a refocus can help. Industry professionals are out there and even colleagues working similar jobs will likely have some insight as to where you are in your career. Perhaps you could be reaching for the stars but have settled and found your level too early. Your potential is often very obvious to those around you. Even if you agree it’s always nice to have it confirmed!
What’s the Forecast?
All sectors experience an ebb and flow of growth and deterioration. It really is just luck when it comes to what side of history you happen to be on. Print media and vehicle manufacture, for example, are on the decline in the UK unfortunately and the social media job market is soaring. It’s nobody’s fault but the marketplace is always evolving. A cursory check for job sector growth in the news will tell you all you need to know. Furthermore, the company you work for currently might have boundless potential or be a sinking ship. You are your company and if it looks like the company itself is stagnating then you will as well. Never be afraid to uproot your professional life in search of something better.
