Given these uncertain times, it is ever more important for each of us to consider how marketable and prepared for change we are. Here is a list of considerations:
1. Professional Reputation: Is your professional reputation an asset you have been nurturing? Sometimes we put our heads down and forget that we need to develop our profiles.
2. Sector Trends: Are you in a growing or declining sector? Is it dominated by domestic or multinationals firms? If it is Public Sector or Not-for-Profit, what are the trends? You may need to leave it even if you love it!
3. Functional Experience: What have you added lately? Could you look to add responsibility to your current role to increase your offering?
4. Personal Network: Do you have a strong network? If the answer is “no,” do get started before you need it, as networking is the key to landing new roles. According to my research, 70% found their new roles in this fashion.
5. Personal Motivation: Are you motivated by what you do? If not, can you begin to take action to learn what could work better for you and maybe even make a commitment to pursue it?
6. Personal Support: Do you have support of family and friends? People do get isolated by the demands of their work, so now would be a good time to consider your relationships and start to take action, if necessary, to rebuild them.
7. Financial Situation: Are you in decent financial shape? My clients who have flexibility find the transition process much less stressful.
8. Personal Presentation: Are you presentable? Age is not adjustable but it is important to be in good shape as it projects energy and vitality. It also helps to be attired properly.
9. Education: Are there courses you have been intending to take? You can start by accessing a MOOC (Massive Online Open Course) as you would be amazed at what is available for free.
10. Openness to Change: Are you open to change? Change requires preparation, a lot of hard work, and sometimes, an attitude adjustment. Do find some quiet time and give it some thought because it could come your way…even if you are not looking for it!