Work Plan

It may be helpful to devise a career action plan to get you started on finding the way to career fulfilment.

1. Sit down. Write out why you need this job eg. for money, for self esteem, to get out of the house.
2. Use a SWOT analysis. Look at your personal strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. You need to be really honest when you do this.
3. Define a list of jobs you would like. This can be as fanciful as you like, remember this is the planning stage and nothing is impossible.
4. Use a friend or family member. Sit down and list your 10 best work attributes, think laterally, if you have been a home maker for 5 years that makes you a great organiser. If you have been in the same job for 10 years that makes you loyal and committed.
5. Now get real. Look at your SWOT, list of attributes and desired jobs and make real connections. Do you have the experience to get the kind of job you want? If you don't then maybe you need to consider retraining?
6. Take first steps. Look for jobs that fall within your areas of experience and interest.
7. Apply for a range of jobs. Even if they are not perfect they will provide you with good practice so you are ready when the perfect one for you comes along.
8. Try voluntary work for a time - it often leads to paid work and can build your confidence.
9. Don't get downhearted. If you aren't immediately successful keep going! Finding the right job takes time.
   

If you need more help and advice on finding a job after a life change then go to Armchair Advice Job Loss.