The Art of Transitioning
I remember very clearly the first time a friend called and asked how I had transitioned from one career to another. At the time it seemed like a simple thing. I had moved from youth ministry, to the senior pastorate, to the chaplaincy, and then to VP of the university. To me they seemed like natural transitions or steps that were taken in the process of a career. What I have come to discover is that making changes, moves, and transitions isn’t easy for everyone.
We’ve been very fortunate and blessed as we have transitioned careers and jobs. There are numerous individuals who have played a role in my growth and advancement. Looking back these are some of things that I have learned and hope to pass on to others who are wanting, hoping, and sometimes needing to move on:
It takes a LOT of work: Be prepared to spend more time than you realize looking, writing, filling out forms, making phone calls, and emailing for a job. It is like having another part-time or full-time job. You have to work at it. Locating the job you want or need doesn’t happen by accident.
Connections/Networks/Relationships are KEY: Always remember that you’re going to need those relationships you’ve built over the years. Many of those individuals have connections with others who know employers, board members, and head hunters who are looking to fill a position or role. Lean into those relationships. Use Facebook, LinkedIn, and other social networking sites to your advantage.
The higher your pay or title the longer it takes: I discovered pretty quickly that my salary and title requirements were making it more difficult for me to locate a job. I soon realized that top level administrative jobs were highly competitive. It can take a while. Do NOT assume that you will locate you next job in two to four weeks. I know it happens, but those tend to be outliers.
Learn from the experience: Personally, I believe you should always be willing to talk and consider a new job. The more you interview by phone or in person the better you become at the process. Learn what you do well and what you need to improve on when you fill out a resume or sit for an interview.
Diversify: I have resumes, cover letters, and reference lists for different jobs and careers. I have resumes for non-profit work, higher education, pastoral ministry, and development. And for each these I have a unique set of references. I seldom use the exact same cover letter. Every job or employer is looking for something different. I have to send information about myself that fits the job they are trying to fill.
Know Thyself: Socrates is known for making this simple yet challenging statement. The better you know yourself, your gifts, graces, weakness and strengths the easier it is to speak to them in an interview. Take all the personality and strengths finder quizzes you can. List those on your resume. Most employers want to know what kind of person they are hiring and your ability to communicate that clearly gives you the best chance of finding not just a job, but a good fit in your job.
Know what you have to have: You want to have a clear picture of what you need from a salary and benefits stand point as you think about your transition.
Be patient: While I said it earlier please remember finding a job can take time. It is a process that tends to move very slow.
Don’t ever count your chickens before they hatch: Just because you got the interview doesn’t mean you have the job. We know that, but it is easy to stop looking once you get the interview. When you do that you lose momentum. Keep looking until you land the job.
You might read this today and think, that’s not me. I’m in a great job and everything is awesome. I have learned though that our context can change quickly. You are always wise to think ahead and always remember that the organization won’t take care of you. Only you will look out for you. Look ahead and be prepared. You may never need to locate a new job but if you do you’ll be ready.
Don’t hesitate to email if I can assist or help in anyway. I’m always happy to share thoughts and experiences with those who are traveling the road with me.
