Career transition is a dance. When both partners are in sync, it appears effortless, like gliding across the dance floor. But, dont be fooled. It takes work to get the steps down. To be successful, you must do your homework. Doing the work upfront will decrease the likelihood of settling for less than what you want.

Relationship Significance

To identify what you like in a partner (career), think about the relationships you have with friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, customers, etc. Focus for a moment on the ones you enjoy the most. What is it about those relationships that makes them enjoyable?

Now do the reverse. What are the characteristics of the difficult, unpleasant relationships in your life?

Pinpointing these traits and dynamics will help you with your job search. When you are interviewing, youll be able to quickly categorize the people and places based on the homework youve already done.

Strengths = Value

Of equal importance is to know your value before you start to interview. Take some time to list your strengths in all aspects of your life. Even the little things. Really get to know yourself. Have a good handle on what you bring to the table. When you believe in your true value, it will resonate from you. The interview dance will take on a different look and feel. Youll find yourself speaking from your authentic self not as an interviewee but as you.

Other Factors

Now add in other key factors: environment (both physical and psychological), compensation, benefits, flexibility (or lack thereof), communication channels, advancement opportunities, expectations (yours and theirs).

After completing this exercise, youll not only know who you are, but what you need and want from a career. Youll search for those elements and they will present themselves to you.

Copyright2006 Diane Helbig