As you contemplate your next career move, recognize the significance of making a choice that aligns with your long-term goals and personal motivations. Your decision today could profoundly impact your career trajectory. While I am not suggesting that you “play it safe”, it is very important to consider how your next role will affect you and your career.
Perhaps start with considering the importance of intrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation refers to the internal drive that fuels your passion for your work. For example, if you are genuinely passionate about creative problem-solving, a role that allows you to innovate and experiment will be far more satisfying than one focused on routine tasks. Take Stephane, a marketing professional who thrived in a role where they could design unique campaigns and strategize creative solutions. Their passion for creativity drove their success. Taking on a role that is more data-focused and less creative would have likely led to dissatisfaction and disengagement.
When you choose a role that aligns with what excites you intrinsically, you set yourself up for a more fulfilling and productive work!
Equally important is a pragmatic self-assessment of your skills and abilities. This involves a realistic evaluation of your current competencies in relation to the demands of potential roles. For instance, if you’re currently a project coordinator with strong organizational skills but limited experience in strategic planning, it might be unwise to leap into a senior project management role that requires extensive strategic oversight. Doing so could lead to an overwhelming experience and poor performance, which might hinder your professional growth. Instead, consider roles that gradually build your skills and prepare you for future opportunities. This approach allows you to gain the necessary experience and avoid the pitfalls of overextending yourself.
Another crucial aspect is envisioning where you want to be professionally in the next ten years. Working backwards from this vision can guide your decision-making process. Suppose you aspire to become a leader in the water and wastewater industry. Look for roles that offer leadership training, exposure to strategy, corporate project execution opportunities (leaders need to learn how to deliver!), and other positions that develop the skills that you will need to lead!
Be cautious about roles that may demand more skills or experience than you currently possess.
For example, consider Alexi, who accepted a senior analyst position despite having only intermediate analytical skills. The role required advanced statistical knowledge and strategic decision-making capabilities, which Alexi struggled to master. As a result, he faced performance issues and eventually had to leave the role. This not only affected his immediate career but also created gaps in his resume that could raise concerns for future employers. This example highlights how stepping into a role for which you’re unprepared can have long-term negative consequences on your career narrative.
Selecting the right position is a crucial step in shaping a successful career. By aligning your role with your intrinsic motivation, realistically assessing your skills, and planning for your long-term aspirations, you can enhance both your professional satisfaction and growth. Your career is a journey, and making informed, strategic choices will ensure that each step you take moves you closer to your ultimate goals.
If you ever need advice, please feel free to reach out for a chat!
Written by: Austin Meyermann, Founder and President of Hunter Crown, LLC
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