How to Choose Your Next Career When You Have No Idea What You Want

One of the most common questions I hear from women returning to work is:  "What if I have no idea what I want to do?"

You may know what you don't want.  You just aren't sure what you do want.  The good news? You don't have to figure out your entire future before taking your next step.

Many women think they need to find the perfect job before they start applying. That's not true. Your next job doesn't have to be your forever job. It just needs to be your next step. The goal isn't to make the perfect decision. The goal is to start moving forward.

But sometimes, it's hard to know where to even begin--especially if you've been out of the workforce for a long time.  

When I had to return to the workforce after an 18 year career "break," I was unprepared for how my industry had changed.  I had graduated in advertising, but a lot of what I'd learned in college was no longer relevant.  Everything was now digital, and I no longer had the confidence I could do a job in that field.

I wish I'd understood then, what I know now.  If I were to start over again, here are the steps I'd take to help me get unstuck:  

1. Look for clues in your past. Think about jobs, volunteer work, hobbies, and even motherhood.

Ask yourself:

• What do people come to me for help with?
• What tasks do I enjoy doing?
• What am I naturally good at?
• What kinds of problems do I like solving?
• What activities make time go by quickly?

The answers often point you in the right direction.

2. Focus on what you like doing. Don't start with job titles.  Start with activities.  Do you enjoy: 

• Organizing things?
• Teaching people?
• Writing?
• Planning events?
• Solving problems?
• Helping others?
• Working with numbers? 

Many careers use the same skills in different ways.

3. Try things before you commit. You don't need to spend thousands of dollars on school to explore a new career. Instead:

• Watch YouTube videos about the field.
• Take a free online course.
• Talk to people who do that job.
• Volunteer.
• Attend a local event.

Think of it as gathering information, not making a decision. 

4. Talk to people.  This is the step that changed my life.  One conversation led to an informational interview. That interview led to an opportunity. That opportunity restarted my career.  Most jobs come through people, not online applications--especially in today's job market.  Start asking questions.  You might be surprised by who is willing to help. 

5. Give yourself permission to change your mind.  Many women worry about making the wrong choice. But every experience and job teaches you something.  You don't need to know what you'll be doing ten years from now.  You only need enough information to take the next step.

When you can't seem to move forward, realize that clarity often comes from taking action.  This week, make a list of five people who have jobs that seem interesting. Reach out to one of them. Ask if they'd be willing to spend 20 minutes sharing their career story.

You don't need all the answers today. You just need your next conversation.


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