How to change jobs when clueless about the next move: Things to know

NEW DELHI: Are you planning to quit your job but have no clue about your next move? Or are you a fresher with no idea about where to start? You will not find direction in your current state of awareness and will need to energise your thinking with fresh inputs, experiences and perspectives. Here’s how.
Time focus
First, remove any deadlines for finding your perfect career.When you do that, your mind will be relieved and can create worthwhile solutions. Keep yourself occupied in a project or a temporary job if that stops you from worrying or if you need an income. Else take a break from work.
Self focus
Focus on yourself. Do not dwell on limitations like a lack of education, money, contacts or personal circumstances. You will miss the big picture if you anchor yourself in today’s challenges. Invest in reading, people, and new projects to build a larger bank to draw from. Think of travelling, starting your business, trying internships at startups, volunteering at an NGO or working in an area of your hobby.
Job content focus
While considering and rejecting new career options, you are probably operating from a limited world view of what the work might feel like. “Salesperson” can lead to different experiences depending on whether you are selling over the phone, in person, to individuals, to corporations, whether you are selling small ticket items or a single large sale. Seek advice from people who are successful in those roles.
Contribution focus
Think about what you can contribute to the new employer, colleagues, customers, business and what impact that has on the world. A contribution perspective changes your world view and increases your motivation.
Goal focus
Stop thinking about the skills required. Think about creating a goal instead. If you identify a goal that is a few years away, you can generate many paths to reach your destination. Once you select a path, shift focus to the present and master skills one at a time. Remember that the goal must be work related and not an outcome.
Person focus
Stop thinking about your next job and instead ask yourself – who do you want to work with. Working alongside a great boss, a successful leader or even a sorted peer will give you immense learning, clarity and perspective in a short time.
Life focus
Make sure other areas of your life are in order. Remember you have multiple identities as an individual—a friend, family member or contributor to the community. While you are worried about your next job, you do not want other areas of your life to break down simultaneously. Stay invested in all your other areas to retain the balance you need. Leverage your support system and involve them in your efforts. You will gain different perspectives.
Completion focus
The final step is to complete what you start. Most learnings and insights will come from completions you achieve. Abandoning short-term plans midway will reduce your confidence and slow down your journey to finding your dream career.
(The writer is founder and CEO at QuezX.com and HeadHonchos.com)