How to Reinvent Your Career - The Interview

This week I was interviewed on Channel 9's 'Mornings' with David Campbell and Sonia Kruger. If you're busy at work you possibly missed it, but it could be helpful if you're trying to make a move!

Here is the interview transcript...

SONIA: It's the moment many of us have fantasised about..chucking in our day job for our dream job. But whether you're wanting to make the change or are forced to.. reinventing your career can be a really scary prospect

DAVID: Career Expert Jane Anderson however says its never too late and not as hard as you think, she joins us live from Brisbane.

Q1. Jane, this is one of those ideas that sounds great but often ends up in the too hard basket, what's the first step in making the move a reality?

Well life’s too short to do things that make us unhappy but when making these decisions you also need to think about practicality. You really need to identify your key strengths and assets - if I make the switch do I have the skills and do I have the finances to support this change?

I would also suggest reflecting on what you love to do the most (this may or may not correlate to your previous role) and always have your radar on for opportunities that match these factors.

The other thing I often say to my clients is treat finding a job like a job... be relentless in your search - eventually it all comes together. Over 60% of the jobs out there are not advertised so you really need to be proactive and persistent.

Q2. Sometimes you don't get the choice.. thousands of Aussies lose their jobs every year.... What's the secret to getting over a sacking or redundancy?

Well the first lesson is realising that roles are redundant, NOT people. Many say "I was made redundant" important to realise your role was made "redundant." Remember you still have plenty of experience and that you’re walking away with all of your life and work skills you still have plenty to bring to the table. Someone out there wants that, let's make it easy for them to find you!

Q3. You say getting retrenched isn't always a bad thing.. what do you mean...

Well, when you're pushed out of your comfort zone you have to find solutions. I was out of work when I first moved to Brisbane. I couldn't find a job, was newly divorced and I remember my mum telling me it was time to talk to Centrelink. So I got clear about the role I wanted since just looking at jobs online wasn't helping me. So, I researched companies that I would want to work for. I phoned them directly and they had meetings with me but had nothing for me at the time. Two weeks later I got a call from my favourite company and was offered the job I dreamed! Now I've had another career change and I help others in Personal Branding to help them sell and market themselves.

Q4. Women are part of a core group reentering the workforce, sometimes after a long absence, if they've been a stay at home mum...how do they come back with a bang?

Reach out to people you used to work with and who already know you. They will be your biggest advocates! Keep connected while you're on maternity leave through Linkedin and Facebook with your colleagues, even just check in every now and again. This will really help your confidence when returning. I would also suggest listing your resume on sites like www.linkme.com.au . This is where recruiters look for active candidates. Write posts on your area of expertise, these really help you stand out and share them on your LinkedIn profile.

Q5. One of the major worries for anyone of 40 is thinking their age is standing in the way of a new career....but you say it can actually work in their favour...how so?

The over 40's have great networks and fantastic experience! It’s confidence that gets in the way. Over 40 per cent of people who found their next jobs, found it through someone they knew, so get out and connect with those who know you.

You also need to consider up-skilling. Having a break could be an opportunity to move up - take a course and fill any the gaps in your resume. Ideally, the older you are, the more assets you have in place to allow you to upskill and volunteer which can also be helpful. Volunteering is also a great way to keep busy, it's a great way to network. I would also suggest focusing on your health - it not only makes you look better, but it keeps you healthy physically and mentally - that's important to whoever is hiring you. Lastly, be resourceful - don't sit in silence or watch a computer screen. Get on the phone and call everyone in your network. People do generally want o help if they can. They just don’t know if you don’t ask!