I’ve had many people come to me for career coaching who are looking for a specific kind of job, in a certain industry, and have little luck; whether it’s due to the tough economy or something else. I want people to pursue their dream job, and go for the job they really want! But sometimes it’s not going to happen for whatever reason. Don’t give up on the dream, but adjust it.
If your industry was hit hard by the tough economy, (like construction was for example) then those jobs are just going to be harder to find in certain areas. To feel less frustrated in your search, and more in the driver’s seat, give yourself a time frame, like 3 months, to job search. If nothing is moving, start brainstorming additional ideas related to what you’re wanting. For example, if you’re a nurse who’s primarily worked in a private practice; do you need to start looking at hospitals, urgent care centers or for a government or public agency like the CDC to broaden your search? Perhaps you find a job at a university working on a research project. If your search is going no-where, start to think more creatively about what to pursue.
Sometimes we have blinders on and need to consider other career ideas related to your current ideas. Don’t give up on the dream job, but blend being practical along with it.
Hallie Crawford
Career Coach
P.S. Is your dissatisfaction a passing phase or a sign it’s time to move on? Find out if for sure you’re in the right career with our Ideal Career Quiz.