I have a friend who is looking for a new job. Not just a new job, but a role that’s a good fit. My friend is talented, smart, and has a great work ethic. Did I mention creative too? A problem solver who takes the initiative to make things better.
My friend is looking for a new role because they just don’t fit into the one they are in very well. Their skills and talents aren’t being used to the fullest and they feel they can add more value. But my friend is also hesitant to let on to what they really like doing, what they are really good at. They are not sure their skills, talents, and experience will be appreciated or needed.
When I think of my friend I remember the stories of when they made work a better place. Sometimes it was a kind word to a coworker going through a tough time. Other times it was taking initiative to improve a process that the organization hadn’t realized could have been more efficient. And other times it was improving the morale of the people around them with their positive attitude and respect for fellow colleagues. And sometimes it was accomplishing something awesome and valuable.
So what should I say to my friend who is looking for a new role? I can tell they are a little down and unsettled because they don’t have the confidence in their skills, talents, and experience like I do. I know the world needs them to add the value only they can add. But I also know it would be easy to take a job because they think that’s the job they are supposed to take. They look at jobs with a little more responsibility because they think that’s where they should go next. Or at jobs where they would do what they are doing now.
I want to encourage my friend to explore roles that fit what they actually want to do, not what they think they should do. I know from experience that takes a lot of reflection and honesty with oneself. Doing something different is scary, and we don’t always get all the support we would like when exploring new avenues.
If we apply the scientific method, my friend would come up with a hypothesis about the new type of role they want. Then they would go out and see if the hypothesis was true or false. They would do this by talking to people doing what they want to do, and researching companies and roles. Once they get sufficient data they could make a decision about whether they want to continue pursuing the hypothetical role or pivot to something else.
Taking time to prove or disprove the hypothesis takes time. I’d say to my friend that they need to hang in there and keep pressing on. The answer, and opportunities, will come. And when my friend gets a little down about the process and how long it is taking, I’d say to them that I believe in them, I believe in the value they have to offer, and I will believe for them if they can’t quite muster the spirit for it at the moment.
Well, my friend, you have a unique combination of skills, talent, and experience that, when applied to the role that’s right for you, will add tremendous value. And, when you find the right role, you will find satisfaction in adding your unique value.
Friend – keep pressing on. You are amazing!