Doing What You Love
Over the past few weeks, several friends and former colleagues have come to me to talk about their next job move. I am not sure what is spurring on the dialogue. My guess is a combination of an increased need for personal satisfaction in work, coupled with a new found confidence in the economy. Regardless, the conversations were interesting and healthy and got me really thinking about what makes people fulfilled in their work.
In all cases, I sensed that the people I was talking to were approaching their job search in the wrong way. There was too much focus on their specific skill set and targeting specific jobs. I suggested thinking about their search in a different way. First off, I encouraged them to think about what they were passionate about. What products, technologies, and industries were compelling to them and why? The next step I ask them to take was to try to find companies that fit into what they were excited about. Lastly, to look for open roles or people they knew in those companies to find out more or actually trying to find a specific role in the company. Obviously, a job search takes a lot of time and energy. It is important to think through why you want to leave your current job and be very thoughtful about thinking through what is going to make you fulfilled.
I have had many people in my life move jobs to make more money or work for a company that was “high profile”. While sometimes it works out, often times it leaves people pretty empty. Another friend took a pay cut to work for a company that was aligned to what he loved to do. He was a big cyclist and the company produces cycling clothing and equipment. He has been there for 6 years, and remains very happy. Make sure you think through what is important to you and have a well thought out preset criteria to help you with your evaluation.
Suggested Criteria:
The Mission/Vision of the Company
Are you excited about what the company does? Are the values of the company aligned with your personal values?
The People
Do you feel a strong camaraderie with the people you met and interviewed with? How about the person you will be reporting to? Would you want to go have a beer or a meal with the people on your team? Are the senior leader’s people you respect?
The Company Culture
How do others feel about working for the company? How does work get done? While you are in common areas do people seem energized to be there?
The Ability to Learn and Grow
Is the work challenging? Will you learn a new skill set or increase what you already know? Will there be opportunities for you to take on more responsibility (if that is important to you).
Other
Work life balance, commute, financial upside, travel, etc. What else is important to you and your family?
It is also important to have the right expectations about your job. Most people cannot be totally fulfilled just by their job. It is important to love what you do, but also to focus on having a rich life outside of work. Be sure you are clear on what you want from work before you change jobs. The grass is not always greener on the other side and often time people leave for all the wrong reasons. Be thoughtful and patient as you approach your job search.
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http://www.nikkigoldman.com nikki
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chelseapollen
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bethsteinberg
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http://www.facebook.com/debow Daniel Debow
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danielberkal
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http://www.facebook.com/debow Daniel Debow
