Finding the Right Career Path

It's refreshing—and crucial—to remember that not all journeys toward career fulfilment follow a linear path. 

In fact, embracing the twists, turns, and occasional loop-de-loops in your career can lead to richer experiences and more profound growth both professionally and personally. 

As a recruiter who has navigated my own 'squiggly' career journey, I understand the mix of excitement and uncertainty that comes with carving out your unique path.

Careers are no longer a single track that we follow through to retirement. The modern workplace is dynamic, and so are the career paths it fosters. 

A LinkedIn survey found that over the last two decades, the number of companies people worked for in the five years after they graduated has nearly doubled. Furthermore, the "gig economy" is thriving, with more individuals embracing freelance and contract work—Proof that the concept of a linear career path is quickly becoming a thing of the past.

Embrace the Squiggle

Your career is a personal journey that should align with your interests, skills, and life goals.

For many, this means exploring various roles, industries, and even locations to find the right fit. My career path, for instance, was anything but straight.

From passing the CPA, to my first role in public accounting, to the recruitment team at EY, each pivot was a step towards understanding where my true passions and strengths lie - helping professionals just like you land their next role.

These experiences equipped me with a unique set of skills and a holistic perspective that I bring to my role as a recruiter today.

Taking Action

Feeling stagnant in your current role or unsure about what step to take next can be daunting. But look at it as an opportunity to take stock of your journey and recalibrate your direction. Here are a few steps to get started:

1. Reflect on Your Values and Interests: Understanding what motivates and matters to you can guide your career decisions and help you find roles that fulfill you.
2. Upskill and Reskill: The world is constantly changing, and so are the skills needed to thrive in it. Identifying areas for growth and pursuing learning opportunities can make you more adaptable and open up new paths.
3. Network and Explore: Sometimes, the best opportunities come from the most unexpected places. Make connections within and outside your industry to learn from the experiences of others and discover new possibilities.
4. Seek Guidance: If you're feeling overwhelmed, seeking the advice of mentors or a career coach can provide clarity and direction - my inbox is always open

Remember, it's perfectly okay to have a career path that resembles a work of abstract art more than a straight line. 

What matters most is that you find joy and fulfilment in what you do. 

If you're feeling a bit lost or simply looking for your next adventure, I'm here to help. Don't hesitate to get in touch if you’re ready to take action in your career trajectory.

Jack Kalb, CPA, CA Minted Search Group