Career transitions come in many forms and everyone is unique, so we will jointly create a plan that is tailored to your objectives. By reading about the elements of a job search, you will get an idea of the kind of plan that will be right for you. Or, you can call Anne for a free 1/2 hour telephone consultation to discuss your specific situation and outline a plan of action.

Setting a direction
Every bridge goes from somewhere to somewhere else. You probably know where you are; you may have no idea about where you might want to go. If this is your situation, the first steps could include formal and informal assessments such as:

• The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator ®
• Interests, values or skills inventories
• Collages or narratives

Assessments and brainstorming activities typically result in a number
of alternatives that need to be evaluated. This takes exploration, whether that's online research or talking to people who are already doing the job. Once you've narrowed down the selection, you're ready for the next phase.

Defining a strategy
You've undoubtedly heard the expression "you can't get there from here." In the world of jobs and careers, that's usually not the case.
You can get there with some planning. This phase of a career transition often includes

• Filling any knowledge gaps with education or training
• Targeting specific jobs that are right for you
• Identifying industries and organizations that are growing
• Using your network in an effective way to tap into the
  hidden job market

Strategies will vary, depending on your destination. If you're looking at high tech startups, "follow the money" might be an effective method. If you are going into a non-profit or educational setting, that won't work. An entrepreneurial direction is again completely different. Having a plan based on the right strategy is the key to completing this phase.

Crossing the bridge and getting the job
You know exactly where you want to go and how to get there, and still need some help. In today's economy, there will be many others going in the same direction, trying to land the same job. How do you make yourself stand out in the crowd? The answer lies in sales and marketing. How do you present yourself? How do you convince a potential employer that you bring value to the organization? You will need to

• Focus your resume and cover letter for each opportunity
• Polish your interviewing skills to land the job
• Negotiate the best offer

There is no single resume style that fits everyone. Anne firmly believes that the resume must reflect who you are, and be written so the employer immediately understands how you can contribute to the organization. This emphasis is continued in an interview, and is the only way to get to a successful negotiation.

Maintenance
Just as cars and bridges need periodic maintenance, so does your career. Are you working with a difficult boss or co-worker, or trying to position yourself for a promotion? Often it is better to resolve an issue in your current job than to bail out and start all over somewhere else. A quick coaching session or two can help you navigate the issues and get you back on track.

Contact Anne for a free 1/2 hour telephone consultation to explore solutions that work for you.