— PhillyPat

“Venturing out” certainly must feel like a big move at this point in your life. You have already taken the first step by deciding that you want to look for a job and reaching out to ask this question. 32 years with one organization means that it has been awhile since you have looked for a position. I will point out that you have already redirected your career once, from corporate employee to caregiver, so I hope that accomplishment gives you confidence to move forward with your next change.

You will want to discover information about yourself as well as learn about the current job market and how to navigate a job search in 2006. Breaking the process down into manageable steps will help you get started without being overwhelmed.

First, I encourage you to engage in a self assessment as a first step in your decision-making. This assessment will include looking at the broad range of skills you have developed during your corporate career and in volunteer, academic and personal areas of your life. What are the skills that you find satisfying to use at this point in your life, and what skills would you rather not be using? Sounds like you may not want to use some of those “office skills”.

Clarifying your values and needs helps to guide your career decision. How important are the values of financial reward, collaborating with others, status, idea innovation or time flexibility to you now? You mentioned your energy and passion; are there interests or issues that engage that energy and passion? Personality characteristics can also guide your decision-making. There are many career possibilities that you might consider; the challenge will be finding the career redirection that fits your self-assessment and the person you are today.

This self assessment can be completed using tools suggested in our site’s  explore your future  section. There are many books at your local library or bookstore that contain exercises that lead you through a self assessment. You may want to take a course or workshop that guides you through a self assessment. Check out your local community college or adult night school classes. If you decide to seek the advice of a career consultant, you can find local experts through the Association of Career Professionals International. 

After identifying career alternatives, you will want to research your ideas and conduct information interviews to determine which careers make the most sense as a next step. You will prepare a resume and learn current job search strategies. Building and expanding your network is an important step, as is interview preparation. Many of the resources mentioned above can be helpful with these steps. There are job search support groups at local churches and community organizations. The Internet is full of information, but keep in mind that it is not a substitute for the valuable conversations you will have with your friends, neighbors, co-workers from the corporation and others in your network.

This is an exciting time for you and your career.  Take some time to explore your options and be open to new ideas.  Thanks for writing and we look forward to hearing about your career journey.