So Many Career Choices!
Sometimes having too many choices creates a problem. A book by psychologist Barry Schwartz entitled The Paradox of Choice – Why More Is Less notes that the dramatic explosion of choices paradoxically becomes a problem, especially among consumer offerings. Often, the result is inaction. Have you ever looked at the assortment of goods on a store shelf and become so fatigued by the process of trying to determine what’s best for you that you simply move on and buy nothing?
I frequently see that phenomenon among people I coach and advise on careers, especially those early in their journey. New graduates have many paths they can take; their degree often equips them for many potential roles. The problem is compounded by the fear of missing out (FOMO.) What if I make the wrong decision and end up in a bad job or one that isn’t as lucrative as another potential opportunity? Will people judge me if I make a mistake?
These feelings are completely understandable. However, they can cause people to freeze or feel bad during their career search. While it can be uncomfortable, change can also be fun and energizing, especially when it leads to a situation you love.
Here are some things to keep in mind to make you more effective in your career journey:
1. Engage in Curious Conversations – Learning and communicating are the keys to successfully navigating career exploration. If you don’t put yourself out there and have curious conversations with people to learn about different types of organizations and jobs, you’re never going to figure out what truly interests you. There are as many perspectives and opinions as the number of people to whom you could possibly talk.
2. Learn from Videos – Conversations aren’t the only way to learn about organizations and jobs. The Internet is full of videos of presentations and panel discussions on careers and companies. Watch a few of them. You’ll be surprised how much you can learn.
3. Keep Your Eyes Open for Opportunities – Exploration is not a sequential process. So much of your career will be the result of randomness and luck. Who you sit next to in an airplane, on what accounts you are staffed, what your fiancée’s parent does, etc.
4. Determine Your Definition of Success - Don’t worry about being judged. We live among so many social media platforms on which successes are trumpeted. Rest assured that more triumphs are posted than stumbles. Remember that it’s more about your own measure of happiness and definition of success than what others think.
You are bound to make mistakes along the way in your career (and just about every other dimension of life!) However, every situation is a learning opportunity about yourself and others. With a bit of grit, you will course correct and work towards finding yourself in a better position. The most important thing is to be as prepared as possible for and open-minded to opportunities. Then, when you decide on your next step, give it your best shot!
I offer individualized career coaching and advising (remote and in-person) along with text, email, and phone support to help job seekers succeed. I've hired more than 100 people and interviewed over 500 candidates. I've worked at large global companies like Morgan Stanley and a company that is now part of Bank of America Private Bank and founded/worked at six startups. I welcome you to contact me and join my mailing list.