Rethinking our careers, and what we truly, truly want to gain from how we spend so much valuable time and energy was the topic of a walk I gave to a local organization this week. As my fave insider group, I'm also sharing some of the key takeaways.
๐ข Keep an ear out next Tuesday too on the Beyond UX Podcast to hear myself and the lovely Jeremy Miller discussing careers, the paradigm shift and how to know if management is right for you. ๐ข
Redefining Your Career: From Ladder to Playground
In today's rapidly evolving professional landscape, the traditional concept of a career ladder is becoming obsolete. Instead, we're witnessing a shift towards viewing careers as a collection of fulfilling experiences - a playground of opportunities rather than a rigid climb to the top.
Speaking at UXPA MN, Hosted by West Munroe (thanks Elli!)
I explored this paradigm shift and its implications for modern design professionals. Here are some key takeaways:
Embrace the collection of experiences: Rather than focusing solely on vertical progression, consider how each role contributes to your overall growth and satisfaction.
Understand generational differences: With younger generations averaging just 2.2 years per job, the emphasis is now on diverse experiences rather than long-term loyalty to a single company.
Advocate for yourself: Identify what energizes you and communicate your aspirations clearly to your superiors. Don't limit yourself to traditional promotions - consider flexible work arrangements, stretch assignments, or cross-departmental opportunities.
Navigate different types of bosses: Whether you have a passionate advocate, a lazy advocate, or a detractor as a boss, tailor your approach to maximize support for your career goals.
Consider non-traditional paths: Don't shy away from unconventional career moves. Taking a sabbatical, teaching abroad, starting a business, or pursuing further education can all contribute to a rich and fulfilling career.
Reply to this email to let me know if you want me to go deeper on one of these takeaways as a longer blog post. ๐
Remember, your career is not just about climbing a ladder - it's about creating a tapestry of experiences that align with your personal goals and values. As you navigate your professional journey, ask yourself: "What would my most assertive, confident self do?" and "What beliefs about careers am I holding onto that may not serve me?"
By reframing our perspective on careers, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities.
A sketch of a playground, with options of sidesteps, promotions, starting a business, or management.
Step off the ladder and onto the playground - what are you going to enjoy next? โ Your Coach,
p.s. As I was doing research for this presentation, I learned that the etymology of the word "career" comes from the middle French and stems from jousting tournaments and how knights and their horses would plow forward with momentum on a straight course. Not to be confused with the word "careening" which includes a side-to-side movement.
Yes, I'm a dork!
Curator & Community Coach
Alison Gretz, ACC
Executive Coach, future of work & Leadership Development thought leader, Mum to 2 small humans, prior leader to teams of hundreds.
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