Revitalize Your Career This Fall

Fall is in the air . . .
 

The leaves are changing.

There's a crispness in the mornings, and pumpkin spice lattes (warm apple cider for me!) are back.

It's a season that naturally inspires change and new beginnings. And just like nature, maybe it's time for your career to experience a bit of a refresh too.

As a mid-career woman, you've likely achieved a lot professionally. But perhaps you're feeling a little stagnant, or you're wondering if there's more out there for you. Fall is the perfect season to re-energize your career and set yourself up for continued success.

In this blog post, we'll cut through the fluff and give you actionable steps to revitalize your career this fall. From getting clear on your goals to learning new skills and expanding your network, we'll cover the essentials to help you make real progress.

So grab your favorite fall drink, get comfortable, and let's dive in!

1. Reflect and Reassess: Where Are You Now, and Where Do You Want to Be?

The first step to any change is understanding your starting point. Take some time for self-reflection:

• Job Satisfaction: Are you genuinely happy in your current role? If not, what specific aspects are causing dissatisfaction? Is it the work itself, the company culture, or something else?
• Skill Assessment: Make a list of your top 5 skills. Are these skills still relevant and in demand? Research which skills are most valuable in your field or desired field and identify any gaps you need to fill.
• Career Goals: Where do you envision yourself in the next 5-10 years? Do you want to climb the ladder in your current field, explore a new industry, or perhaps start your own business? Create a vision board or write a detailed description of your ideal work day to help clarify your goals 

2. Invest in Yourself: Upskill and Stay Ahead

The professional landscape is constantly evolving. Investing in your skills is crucial for staying competitive and opening up new opportunities:

• Formal Education: Consider pursuing an advanced degree, certification, or specialized training program that aligns with your career goals. 
• Workshops and Webinars: Many organizations offer professional development workshops and webinars specifically tailored to mid-career women.
• Online Learning Platforms: Take advantage of online learning platforms to acquire new skills or deepen your expertise in a specific area at your own pace.
• Mentorship and Coaching: Seek out a mentor or career coach who can provide guidance and support as you navigate your career journey.

Before paying out of pocket, see if your company provides subsidies or other resources that you can use to upskill.

3. Expand Your Network and Build Relationships

Networking is essential for career growth at any stage, but it becomes even more valuable as you progress in your career:

• Industry Events and Conferences: Attend conferences, workshops, and networking events to connect with other professionals in your field and stay up-to-date on industry trends. Take advantage of free events.
• Women's Networking Groups: Join professional organizations or networking groups specifically for women in your industry.
• Online Networking: Optimize your LinkedIn profile, join relevant groups, and actively engage with others in your field. You can also add recruiters from your target industry.
• Reconnect with Former Colleagues and Mentors: Reach out to people you've worked with in the past. They can offer valuable insights and support and you can do the same for them. 

4. Take Charge of Your Job Search 

If you're looking for a new job, fall can be a great time to ramp up your efforts:

• Refresh Your Resume and Cover Letter: Highlight your most relevant accomplishments and tailor your resume and cover letter to each specific job you apply for. Remember to quantify your accomplishments. Those are a big plus for recruiters to notice your resume.
• Utilize Online Job Boards and Company Websites: Explore job boards and company websites to find open positions that align with your skills and experience.
• Craft a Compelling Career Story: Develop a clear and concise narrative that showcases your unique value proposition and career journey.
• Practice Your Interview Skills: Prepare for common interview questions, research the company and role thoroughly, and consider doing mock interviews with a friend or mentor. Check out my other article on how to answer hard interview questions. 

Fall is a season of change and new beginnings. As a mid-career woman, you have the experience and skills to take your career to new heights. Use this fall as a chance to grow, learn, and create a fulfilling professional future that truly excites you. It's never too late to make a change and chase your dreams!

So go out there and make it happen!

Cheers,

Lauren

P.S.

If you need more help in revitalizing your career this fall, let’s chat!

Please book a session through this link.