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JenG

Montgomery, AL

Research Associate, IHMC

Science

Everyday Bright

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Faith C Hey folks, anyone here in Career Changers transitioned onto a completely new plane (different from what you were trained in), or moved on to different paths in the same field? Please share on your challenges, motivations, and thoughts. Thanks!

109 weeks ago from Career Changers

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JenG: I'm in the midst of changing from biochemistry to (mostly) full-time writer/blogger. The hardest part for me is letting go of my old identity, ...MoreI'm in the midst of changing from biochemistry to (mostly) full-time writer/blogger. The hardest part for me is letting go of my old identity, even though I'm incredibly excited about the future. It's hard to say no to projects you know you'd be good at, even if they are no longer the right fit for you.
108 weeks ago

amanda cabrera: I'm a licensed RDA and have been in the dental field for about 6 years. I decided to go back to school and finish my bachelor's degree in ...More I'm a licensed RDA and have been in the dental field for about 6 years. I decided to go back to school and finish my bachelor's degree in Communications to get a career in recruitment. Talk about a switch!
However, I am ready for the drastic change to take flight. I have friends and family supporting my decision to take on a new venture.
The challenge is probably the most attractive attribute to my switching careers. I have been feeling stagnate at my place of work. Being the social person that I am, I feel this will be better suited for me, and has more room for growth.

Best advice I can give someone in a career change, is that you never know until you try. You live once, so take on what it is you dream of doing. No regrets! Work hard! You can achieve happiness at a work place if you follow your desires.

-AC

108 weeks ago

JenG There's a lot in the blogosphere about the value of setting really audacious goals. I don't disagree, but I also know that big goals can spook you enough that you never get started. In this post, I offer a case study showing how one of my readers used a system I created to convert small wins (like talking to strangers) into BIG wins (like getting the attention of a NYC book agent). It's truly a fascinating and inspiring story. http://t.co/iN9GPxk

56 weeks ago from Personal Development, Career Changers, Creating a Life You Love and What I Wish I Knew Then 2 more

Sadya Siddiqui and Natasha Smith recommended this

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Tatiana Christian: I really loved your entry/blog. It's so awesome. I often times find setting goals to be difficult because I never know what I want.
55 weeks ago

Edward Antrobus: I'm not sure that the oldest daughter was suffering from a lack of confidence. I'm the same way. I know I'm awesome and can tackle pretty much ...MoreI'm not sure that the oldest daughter was suffering from a lack of confidence. I'm the same way. I know I'm awesome and can tackle pretty much anything technical if given the opportunity. But when things go wrong, I freeze up. I can only operate with a plan. When the plan fails, I can't do ANYTHING until a new plan is formed.
33 weeks ago

TOP IDEA: JenG When you're not happy in your job, sometimes it's hard to know if you need a different job, a new career, or just a long vacation. In a guest post for Zen Habits, I discuss the three scenarios when I think only a new career will do. http://zenhabits.net/3-clear-reasons-to-change-careers/

39 weeks ago from Creating a Life You Love and Career Changers

Chris Paugh, Sadya Siddiqui, Jason H. Parker and Noel Rozny and 1 others recommended this

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Dan Becco: You mentioned a Chris Bilbo (sp?) how do i find out more about making money ideas? thanks. dan
36 weeks ago

Borislava Slavova: Dan, it's Chris Guillebeau, and you can read this article and the comments - MoreDan, it's Chris Guillebeau, and you can read this article and the comments - http://bit.ly/mVHy0A
35 weeks ago

JenG Last night I did an awesome webinar with Leo Babauta called "5 Shortcuts to Finding Your Passion." We talked about how to tell if your passion is career material or just a hobby, anti-passions and why you can't ignore them, and so much more! We also answered live questions. The recorded webinar is up on Zen Habits. Worth watching! http://zenhabits.net/passion-webinar/

36 weeks ago from Career Changers, Creating a Life You Love, Entry-Level Young Professionals, Professional Development and Personal Development 3 more

Borislava Slavova: Your presentation was just great! And your answers were right on spot!
35 weeks ago

JenG Were you bummed you had to go back to work after the long holiday? Do you suffer from the Sunday night blues? I may have something that can help: free training for career changers on how to find the career that makes you come alive. http://www.noregretscareeracademy.com

37 weeks ago from Creating a Life You Love and Career Changers

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Edward Antrobus: @Noel & @JenG, Thanks. And 6 day weeks aren't bad. It's all a matter of expectations. The 40-hour and 5-day work-week are inventions of the ...More@Noel & @JenG, Thanks. And 6 day weeks aren't bad. It's all a matter of expectations. The 40-hour and 5-day work-week are inventions of the 20th century. If you don't expect to have Saturday off, then you won't miss not having Saturday off. It doesn't get rough until you wind up with no day off to sleep in (till 7 for me) and recharge. A couple jobs ago, I had a stretch where I worked 93 days straight.
36 weeks ago

Heather Gaona: i only had the Monday off, and it felt like a mini vacation. :) I am starting to feel the crunch working one and a half jobs, partly thanks to my ...Morei only had the Monday off, and it felt like a mini vacation. :) I am starting to feel the crunch working one and a half jobs, partly thanks to my office neighbor who has pointed out I only get 4 days off a month. hmm...
36 weeks ago

Edward Antrobus Leaving aside what the actual numbers are or how you actually go about getting there, if you had/have a budget surplus, what would you do with it? If you've covered the expenses of everyday life and got your savings for future needs (emergency fund, retirement, etc) squared away, and still have a solid chunk of change left over, what would use it for? Had a chat with a financial advisor and not knowing my own answer to this question limits my ability to move forward with a plan.

39 weeks ago from Untemplater and Rocky Mountain Networking

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JenG: I felt the exact same way! Having worked myself out of debt and then embracing saving like a zealot, it was hard for me to draw on my "safety ...MoreI felt the exact same way! Having worked myself out of debt and then embracing saving like a zealot, it was hard for me to draw on my "safety funds" when I needed them. I worked on it. I mean, what's the point in saving if you never, ever use it?!
36 weeks ago

Edward Antrobus: I don't see any point in having money if you don't spend it, but NOT spending is so ingrained that it would be easier if there was just enough ...MoreI don't see any point in having money if you don't spend it, but NOT spending is so ingrained that it would be easier if there was just enough money instead of too much.
36 weeks ago

TOP IDEA: Ty Unglebower Today I am beginning the process of unfollowing, and unsubscribing, and just plain giving up on some of the "must follow!" gurus, blogs, Twitter feeds and websites I sort of fell for in 2010. Actually I didn't totally fall for all of them, but I was acting on the water cooler premise that if I read what everyone else read, I'd have more to talk about and hence more to network about. But it was inauthentic. I'm tired. No more "Godin-like" sites for me without some unique appeal.

72 weeks ago from Networking Tips, Creating a Life You Love, Baltimore Brazen and Washington D.C.2 more

Ryan Healy, Rachel M. Murray, Mehul Kar, Robin Mills and Whitney May Parker and 2 others recommended this

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Ben Donahower: Yep, I get what I call RSS creep all of the time. Every six months or so I need to pare down.
71 weeks ago

Reneida: Completely agree Ty. This is particularly a problem with Twitter...before you know it you're following way too many people (especially the ...MoreCompletely agree Ty. This is particularly a problem with Twitter...before you know it you're following way too many people (especially the "gurus") and absorbing absolutely nothing in terms of content that is sincerely relevant to you. I only follow a few people that I find interesting and in line with what I want to learn/know. Sure, my follow back numbers suffer as a result, but I did not sign up to that SN for the popularity but rather the value.
70 weeks ago

TOP IDEA: Sadya Siddiqui BEST Brazen post 2010: Here are the best blog posts in my opinion to be featured on Brazen. JEN GRESHAM- Career Design, Part 1: Why Three Jobs Are Better Than One http://bit.ly/fj1g2X CAMERON PLOMMER- http://howtobeextraordinary.com/the-sex-and-cash-theory-keep-your-day-job/ JAMIE NACHT FARRELL- What Kind of Wall Will You Build? http://bit.ly/idf925 Consultants Why Some Make it &some CRASH http://bit.ly/hV1dTQ

74 weeks ago from Ask Penelope Trunk!, Brazen Careerists on Twitter, GenYJourney: Tips, Insights, Experiences For Young Professionals, Entrepreneurs and Slash Jobs 3 more

Ryan Paugh, Kelly Seiler and JenG recommended this

Sadya Siddiqui: and since I'm cringing over how mangled & badly formatted the text above looks i'm adding Penelope trunk's Perfectionism is a disease Moreand since I'm cringing over how mangled & badly formatted the text above looks i'm adding Penelope trunk's Perfectionism is a disease http://bit.ly/eQByyC
74 weeks ago

JenG: Thanks, Sadya, for the mention. But my personal favorite is YOUR guest post on my blog, Much Ado About To-Do Lists MoreThanks, Sadya, for the mention. But my personal favorite is YOUR guest post on my blog, Much Ado About To-Do Lists http://bit.ly/aX1WxJ

That's the one that gets my vote!
74 weeks ago

TOP IDEA: Jenny Blake "Use what talents you possess: the woods would be very silent if no birds sang there except those that sang best." -Henry Van Dyke

110 weeks ago

Wanda, Mozart, Sean Masters, Ty Unglebower and Gideon and 2 others recommended this

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Jenny Blake: Hi Woody - thanks so much for the cupcake cheers! Big congrats on your book too :D
100 weeks ago

: hi
52 weeks ago

JenG I love setting (and accomplishing) big goals, but sometimes that leaves me feeling really overwhelmed and tired. People talk about findign work/life balance, and changing priorities, but what about the crazy idea of mixing focused intensity with periods of rest? It's called taking a break, and it turns out most people (myself included) don't do it enough. Here's how. When Wonder Woman Isn't Feeling So Wonderful http://t.co/48plkou

46 weeks ago from Career Rocketeer, Personal Development, Productivity & Time-Management and Creating a Life You Love 2 more

Rebecca Thorman, Nikita T. Mitchell and Brett Kunsch recommended this

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Mike Ambassador Bruny: Thanks for that one Jen, good to know that even Super Woman takes a break.

I've been threatening to take quarterly time off from work and my ...MoreThanks for that one Jen, good to know that even Super Woman takes a break.

I've been threatening to take quarterly time off from work and my business to reflect and plan. I see it taking place at a retreat center somewhere. I'm not sure if this qualifies as a total break, but it's a break from "just keep going."
45 weeks ago

Mona Abdel-Halim: I agree. In my company we enforce taking vacation, even half days, and have half-day "work on whatever you want" Fridays...Zoning out on a random ...MoreI agree. In my company we enforce taking vacation, even half days, and have half-day "work on whatever you want" Fridays...Zoning out on a random project can be good for your attention when you dive back in...Personally, I like to focus on smaller goals to also make me feel a sense of accomplishment and reduce the guilt if my bigger projects aren't showing results yet.
45 weeks ago

JenG What does college or grad school really teach you? In the words of my former graduate advisor, "I learned I could teach myself anything." I love that. I also love fellow Brazen member Jenny Blake's book, "Life After College." Jenny and I talked about getting out of the achievement mentality that school often encourages and learning how to succeed on your own terms. Read the full interview here: http://bit.ly/gMjPeI. She's brilliant!

57 weeks ago from Education Conversations, Professional Development, Career Rocketeer and Career Changers 2 more

Jenny Blake and Sadya Siddiqui recommended this

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Teresa Potter: The biggest thing college taught me was WHERE to find answers to the questions I had. Electronic Databases, Google Books, how to actually use a ...MoreThe biggest thing college taught me was WHERE to find answers to the questions I had. Electronic Databases, Google Books, how to actually use a huge library, how to actually utilize your professional network and, most importantly, where to look for help when you don't know the answers.
45 weeks ago

Cooper: I think it depends on the field. I am pretty certain I needed grad school, but my graduate degrees are not in business.
45 weeks ago

TOP IDEA: Carrie Clark Confessions of a Hopeless Optimist - http://www.brazencareerist/2010/04/11/confessions-of-a-hopeless-optimist

110 weeks ago

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Carrie Clark: @JenG: Hahaha! That sure sounds like a compliment to me.
110 weeks ago

Ashley Evans: I think that being optimistic is a must. Why live a life of worry and negativity? Life wouldn't be any fun, I wouldn't have a reason to get up in ...MoreI think that being optimistic is a must. Why live a life of worry and negativity? Life wouldn't be any fun, I wouldn't have a reason to get up in the morning if there wasn't something to look forward to.
109 weeks ago

Dawn Lennon Performance appraisals routinely focus on leadership behaviors as though that's the full measure of a leader. The driving force behind great leaders are their principles, their uncompromising code of beliefs. What are the principles that you consider the most important for a leader? I looked at a couple here and what they require a leader to do in practice. http://wp.me/pJhPc-mp

46 weeks ago from Career Rocketeer, Career Changers and Inspiring Leadership 1 more

JenG recommended this

JenG: Interesting perspective, Dawn. I've thought about leadership for years, and never saw it quite this way. Love it!
46 weeks ago

Dawn Lennon: @Jen Thanks for much for recommending this idea and for your comment. Glad it struck a chord. Made me smile! ~Dawn
46 weeks ago

JenG Having trouble getting recognized for your efforts? Following the most common advice for up-and-comers can get you stuck in your position for decades, until you're so beat down you stop trying. Once I developed more nuanced strategies, everything changed. Of course, by that time, I wasn't even sure a promotion was what I wanted. But I did know I wanted to set the direction of my career myself. Here's what I learned: 7 Lies That Undercut Your Chances Of Promotion http://t.co/CFQlvET

50 weeks ago from Gotta Mentor, Professional Development, Creating a Life You Love and Career Rocketeer 2 more

Ben Donahower, Sadya Siddiqui and Michael Rubino recommended this

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Marty Lake: This is really a very intuitive look at some sacred cows in the career growth industry. With all the self-help gurus out there, it really has ...MoreThis is really a very intuitive look at some sacred cows in the career growth industry. With all the self-help gurus out there, it really has become an industry!

Really well written and very genuine. I remain hopeful that people will start to wake up and realize what this whole thing is all about - that it was always about the music and we were supposed to be singing and dancing the whole time.

A big step IMO to living a more fulfilling life is to decide what life you want to live and then get busy doing it. Allowing anyone else but yourself to define that for you is setting yourself up for a life of unintended misery. I feel you really brought that out in a very clear and succinct way in this article.

If a McMansion is what drives a person, then this article will not resonate. However, in my own home, I can point to many things I've built myself, being totally free and creative, while the superstars were traveling the world working 16 hour days away from their families, looking for that elusive next rung on the ladder. I just prefer to build my own ladder. :)
46 weeks ago

JenG: Thanks, Marty. I think it's possible that someone out there could be fulfilled by a McMansion, and if so, great. Go for it. I completely agree ...MoreThanks, Marty. I think it's possible that someone out there could be fulfilled by a McMansion, and if so, great. Go for it. I completely agree that success is something you have to define for yourself, and there's no right (or wrong) answer. But so few of us spend the time really thinking about what it is we want (and how that feels--no experience makes it hard), it's easy to get sidetracked.

Thanks for the kind words on the post, Marty. Appreciate it. Hope you'll join me at Everyday Bright from time to time. I'm always looking for luminaries (what I call my readers, which is fitting because they're so smart and thoughtful!). :)
46 weeks ago

Harriet May Outside of work, keeping fit is extremely important to me. I have already signed up for a 5k, a half marathon, two sprint triathlons and a tower race (gulp!) this year. But sometimes I don't feel like working out or going for a run because I'm tired or have some work that I haven't yet done. How do keep up the motivation to exercise around all the other stuff you have going on? Is it a case of just making it routine? Or are there other things you rely on? Or is it just second nature to you?

63 weeks ago from Triathlon, Work/Life Blur, GenYJourney: Tips, Insights, Experiences For Young Professionals, Fit Freaks and Entry-Level Young Professionals 3 more

Rebecca Thorman recommended this

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Edward Antrobus: Actually, both eating and grocery shopping are things I've forgone when I get busy. Just about the only thing I've never skipped is my shower ...MoreActually, both eating and grocery shopping are things I've forgone when I get busy. Just about the only thing I've never skipped is my shower after work, but that's mostly because by the time I get home, I can't stand the smell of myself. :)
48 weeks ago

Ines Ynzenga: Hi, I am new on Brazen!...in my case, it has become such a routine, that I look up for the time to train, and if there is a day I can´t do it, I ...MoreHi, I am new on Brazen!...in my case, it has become such a routine, that I look up for the time to train, and if there is a day I can´t do it, I feel I missed something important for me. My opinion is that definately it is just making it routine..
46 weeks ago

Jamie Nacht Farrell People always talk about the upside of networking, but what about the downside? I have trouble keeping up with all of my colleagues and friends in person - doing so remotely has taken up hours and hours. Does anyone else have issues with this? How do you decide who to spend time on or not? I developed a list of criteria for myself in order to "trim the fat" and not spread myself too thin. Is this a good or bad idea? Any other options? Criteria here: http://bit.ly/fFnkBb

71 weeks ago from Ask Penelope Trunk!, Entrepreneurs, GenYJourney: Tips, Insights, Experiences For Young Professionals, Creating a Life You Love and Consultants R US 3 more

Sadya Siddiqui and Andrea Wilson recommended this

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Billy Mayfield: I feel that on any given day a person you've crossed paths with may need you or vice versa. After a year or so if you still have that business ...MoreI feel that on any given day a person you've crossed paths with may need you or vice versa. After a year or so if you still have that business card(and no correspondence) transfer the data to a digital archive and trash the card.. That way you can create file categories according to your needs. That may help a little..
71 weeks ago

Kim Luu: I handle my relationship similar to Kelly. I don't worry about maintaining so much. We only have so many hours in a day. I set expectations with ...MoreI handle my relationship similar to Kelly. I don't worry about maintaining so much. We only have so many hours in a day. I set expectations with people as well such as "give me a call whenever you're in town" or "chat with you again when we run into each other years from now".

Does it hurt my network? I don't think so. We have an unspoken agreement. I've picked up with people 5 years later and get help. The reverse is true as well with friends of friends calling me up and using someone's name. I always double check first that it is a valid connection before I help.

The only insane thing that I deal with is Holiday cards because I start writing the months in advance personalized notes to get all my 1500 cards done by Christmas. I handle this by keeping a stack of cards on hand and writing a joke or comment when someone comes to mind. Then the card is done.

I have a strict definition of true friends vs. casual friends (there are 4 layers). The only people I make strong efforts to stay in touch with are family and true friends. These are the people that I would drop everything and move the earth to come running if they need help.
71 weeks ago

Jamie Nacht Farrell I don't hate to travel, but I hate being apart from my husband. I'm unsure if its how I was raised (my parents did not travel for business and were / still are always together) or just that we've only been together for 7 years; regardless - I'm averaging traveling about 20 days out of 30 over a month time. I'm not happy about it; but at this juncture no other option. Anyone else ever feel this way? I almost beginning to resent clients that I'm traveling to; which is awful - any thoughts?

81 weeks ago from Consultants R US, Travel for Business, Entrepreneurs, Shotgun Startups and Location Independent 3 more

Rebecca Thorman recommended this

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Jamie Nacht Farrell: Apologies for taking so long to get back but I was traveling ( ; figures. To address over all first; My "home" as I consider it is in South ...MoreApologies for taking so long to get back but I was traveling ( ; figures. To address over all first; My "home" as I consider it is in South Florida - this is where we own our house. FOr the past 2 years, we've been living in Dallas. I really could care less about being tied to the community here as we are moving home over the next few months (ok, in about 6 months), but it's the 'interim' that sucks and Ihave to travel all the time. When I'm in FL, this will not happen as much, so really - all I need is to develop some patience... not my strong suit. The other side of this is that we've been spoiled; we've always worked together and thus are not only used to being together all the time at home, but at work as well; so this has been a bit more jarring. It seems that many people (I know a lot of consultants) travel from M-TH every week, but we have both made the conscious decision that we would hate that/not to do it.

@Rick - I am definitely keeping my eyes "open" for an opportunity - I actually have several of them and am acting as a COO right now for a business that is looking for me to sign on FT. That said, the job is in Chicago and I'm not willing to move there (or anywhere else but back to FL) for that matter. I've been told by several recruiters, NYU's career coach, etc. that I don't need to take a job afar because based on track record, I should be able to get whatever I want in FL; again - just no patience...and unsure I'm looking to go back to work UNLESS the "team" is the right one as I know I would be taking a large paycut going back to any company in really any role.

@Tom - you definitely dont sound like a DICK ( ; and you are 100% right on looking at different options. I've been doing so and really just need to be patient is key.

@Jen - your advice is perfect...and I'm the itiot - because I "cant say no". I guess this is one area where ambition and money is a downfall. Funny, because I thought I was at a point where I had found a solid "balance" and then BOOM - got slammed with 4 opps I couldn't say no to. What I am going to do this weekend is go through all jobs and schedule out. Good call.

@Jeff - I like the idea of the "lever", that said - unfortunately my areas of expertise are truly training and managing sales and marketing depts; I need to be there. So, while I could make the decision NOT to travel there - it would affect the company and my performance and I'm not willing to let that happen. I do like the idea though and for different types of projects, will definitely employ.

@Thelma - another great idea and we do this usually once / month. When I go to business in FL, we usually stay at the Ritz for a couple days first. In NY, we do the same. Unfortunately, I have 4 weeks of non stop right now and i like to be in Dallas on the weekends b/c I love my doggie almost as much as my husband -hahahaha.

81 weeks ago

: Have you thought about working to build a network/system that would work for you? It seems that you have a great business, but if you stop flying ...MoreHave you thought about working to build a network/system that would work for you? It seems that you have a great business, but if you stop flying around so much and in essence, "stop working", will you revenue stream still come in or would it stop? Taking the time in building such a system would allow you and your husband to enjoy life together, as it's meant to be. Don't want to sound like a salesman here, but I have such an opportunity that is extremely easy. Just takes diligence and persistence. Just something to ponder. Visit my website (http://www.blakegates.com) Or call me, 513-393-1835 if you would like more information.
80 weeks ago

TOP IDEA: JenG You hear a lot about the importance of innovation. Because I work in science and technology, many of the organizations I work with or for have specific "innovation" programs. But I started to realize there are actually many cases where imitation may be preferred to innovation. What do you think? How do we erase the stigma of imitation and put it to good use, both personally and professionally? http://su.pr/1cbjqL

103 weeks ago from Career Rocketeer, Consultants R US, Productivity & Time-Management and Professional Development 2 more

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Raquel Elle Bell: @Jonathan - That is they key in your last sentence. Do you understand enough about the work that you are imitating to improve it. It is extremely ...More@Jonathan - That is they key in your last sentence. Do you understand enough about the work that you are imitating to improve it. It is extremely even more frustrating when someone takes bits and pieces and expects it to work as intended usually resulting in a poor product and that makes your product look bad as well.
102 weeks ago

Jonathan van de Veen: @Raquel: Exactly.

In software development we have a name for people who take pieces of other peoples work, slap them together and expect them to ...More@Raquel: Exactly.

In software development we have a name for people who take pieces of other peoples work, slap them together and expect them to work. They're called script kiddies.
102 weeks ago

JenG I love hearing stories about people fighting for their dreams, esp. those willing to take a big risk. I recently got an opportunity to play a minor role in such a story. Thought you might enjoy reading about it: Help Cara Stein Quit Her Job http://t.co/5SgwiJk

48 weeks ago from Personal Development, Professional Development, Career Changers and Creating a Life You Love 2 more

Megan Atkinson and Noel Rozny recommended this

JenG: Thanks for thumbs up. Cara is the one who really deserves it, but I'm happy to share. Cheers!
48 weeks ago

Dawn Lennon We get an inkling at a young age about "what we want to do when we grow up." Too often we don't follow our internal voice because the obstacles seem too much. Artists typically face tough choices about which path to follow. How true have you been to your internal voice? Here's what one young graphic artist has achieved in his twenties. http://wp.me/pJhPc-lt

49 weeks ago from Personal Branding, Career Changers and Entry-Level Young Professionals 1 more

JenG recommended this

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Edward Antrobus: I've generally found my internal voice to be wrong. After I grew out of my boyhood obsession with dinosaurs and astronauts, my internal voice told ...MoreI've generally found my internal voice to be wrong. After I grew out of my boyhood obsession with dinosaurs and astronauts, my internal voice told me two things: be a teacher and get out of the "sticks." Teaching turned out to be an abysmal failure and I've discovered I love horticulture.
48 weeks ago

Tatiana Christian: When I was a kid, I wanted to be an animal scientist - marine biologist, zoologist, etc. But when I got to college, I realized that I wasn't doing ...MoreWhen I was a kid, I wanted to be an animal scientist - marine biologist, zoologist, etc. But when I got to college, I realized that I wasn't doing very well in the maths and sciences. So I ended up doing work in the liberal arts (french and film) instead. A huge part of me wishes I could still do work in the animal sciences, but I don't really see that happening since I don't want to go back to school. Now, my career focus is on the arts and entertainment/media, which is heavily saturated but interesting to me!
48 weeks ago

Tyna Chua Wanted to share my career change story! Two years ago, I was in the supply chain field. My interest in social media was growing, and I wanted to explore a career shift. To get my experience base in social media, I started volunteering for social media projects. I was AMAZED at how much people were willing to help. Two years later, and I am now in social media. It was even a promotion for me. I hope my story inspires folks who are thinking of a career change to seriously explore it. :)

49 weeks ago from Career Changers

Rebecca Thorman, JenG and Coleman Foley recommended this

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Tyna Chua: Thanks Anthony! I found volunteer projects within my own company. Wasn't like me at all, but I emailed our VP of digital strategy and asked for ...MoreThanks Anthony! I found volunteer projects within my own company. Wasn't like me at all, but I emailed our VP of digital strategy and asked for his advice. He referred me to the manager in charge of web analytics, and I got to write an article for their blog. I also started my own blog on supply chain (to marry my then current role with my desired one). I volunteered to be a wellness ambassador and did a presentation on how to use social media to generate buzz for the program. My most important learning: strangers are happy to help!
49 weeks ago

Tyna Chua: Anthony, sounds like you are working on an exciting change! Would love to hear how you use LinkedIn and Twitter for your career advancement.
49 weeks ago

Dawn Lennon Fear and self-doubt about our ability to perform well often show up when we least expect them, inevitably when we really need to hit our version of the home run. The consequences can be dire and disheartening. How do you prepare yourself to deal with those moments? LeBron James's performance in the recent NBA Championship series is a sobering example discussed here: http://wp.me/pJhPc-lF

49 weeks ago from Career Changers, Career Rocketeer, Inspiring Leadership and Entry-Level Young Professionals 2 more

JenG recommended this

JenG: Dawn, I'm a big fan of yours, but this post may well be my favorite. It's definitely one of your top ideas! Or maybe it's just that it hits so ...MoreDawn, I'm a big fan of yours, but this post may well be my favorite. It's definitely one of your top ideas! Or maybe it's just that it hits so close to home. Someone was recently congratulating me on my blogging success, and I couldn't enjoy the compliment. I had to admit I felt like failure because I hadn't been able to sustain my growth numbers while teaching my first online course and trying to move across the world on short notice. After the words came out of my mouth, I realized how ridiculous they seemed. Those internal demons sneak up on the best of us. In fact, what no one tells those seeking fame and success is that the demons often grow in proportion. Your post reminds us it doesn't have to be that way. We can feel proud of what we've accomplished, proud of having tried at all.
49 weeks ago

JenG Much career advice is about grooming: your resume, your connections, your suit. I'd rather see you transform into the Schwab of your industry, a true thought leader, even if it's an industry you've never worked in before. Some might call me crazy, but I think this idea just might work. End The Agony--Let The Job Offers Come To You http://t.co/iWnP8iB

49 weeks ago from Career Changers, Professional Development, Entry-Level Young Professionals, Job Resources and Career Coaching and Career Rocketeer 3 more

TOP IDEA: Whitney May Parker How do you make the transition from an "Assistant" to a "Manager" or "Director"? After taking all of the career advice about 'getting a foot in the door' by taking on a lot of responsibility, how do you start transitioning from the "do-everything go-to person" to the more senior roles in your company or organization? Any good tips or advice for late-20 somethings out there who are ready to make that transition?

56 weeks ago

JenG and Karolyn Chowning recommended this

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JRandom42: Who's got the time to give an informational interview? Not me, especially since it's NOT billable!
49 weeks ago

Clara Kuo: I agree with Susan about reading about the positions you seek to move into, if you start to do those things usually required of a "manager" or ...MoreI agree with Susan about reading about the positions you seek to move into, if you start to do those things usually required of a "manager" or "director," a good company will notice and promote you.
49 weeks ago