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The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted nearly everyone across the globe in some way. In the U.S., millions of people have lost their jobs. In April 2020, the unemployment rate in America jumped to over 14%.
Because of this, many people are considering switching careers. Some are even being forced to think about a career change. But, that doesn’t mean you have to settle for something you don’t want. If you’re really considering switching careers, why not take this unique opportunity to go after your dream job?
We give a lot of credit to dream jobs because they often sound more appealing than what we’re doing now. But, you can be passionate about a specific career while still being realistic.
Tweet ThisWhether you’ve always been interested in audio visual jobs, freelance writing, working with animals, or even starting your own business, you can make it happen.
Let’s look at a few tips you can put into practice right away to finally land your dream job.
1. Don’t Let a Lack of Experience Hold You Back
If you’re truly passionate about a specific industry or job, don’t let your experience (or lack thereof) hold you back from going after it. Instead, think about the skills you do have. How could they be used in the job you’re interested in? What could you bring to the table without having the traditional experience for that industry?
Instead of focusing on where you think you might be weak, focus on your strengths. In doing so, you’ll be more confident in applying to jobs you want, rather than jobs you think you could get.
2. Set Realistic Expectations
The phrase “dream job” can actually be overwhelming if you think about it too much. It automatically sets you up for unrealistic expectations.
The reality is, no job is perfect. There will always be things you like and things you wish you could change. So, even your dream job might not feel like a dream every day.
Again, remember your passions and your values. If a particular job lines up with them, chances are most days will be great. But, understand that there will be times you’ll experience setbacks. Now isn’t the time to be picky. If you are, you’ll never truly be able to find the job of your dreams.
3. Start Out Slowly
There is no rule that you need to jump into a career change head-first, even if it is your dream job. It’s okay to take things slowly. In fact, it can be helpful. If possible, shadow someone else who has the job you want. Or, see if you can start working on it part-time. Do your research when it comes to the ins and outs of that career, how successful people typically are, what can be expected on a daily basis, etc.
“Before you start looking for your dream job, there is one question you need to ask yourself; what is it that you really want to do? You really need to think about this long and hard. Your own conclusion is what provides you with a starting point. Your college major may give you a platform for identifying
your career goals. But provided it’s feasible, it is perfectly normal if you wish to pursue a field that has nothing to do with you major. Perhaps you spent four years of your life doing something that you did not really like. But why make the same mistake all over again?” – Five Tips for Landing your Dream Job
We give a lot of credit to dream jobs because they often sound more appealing than what we’re doing now. But, you can be passionate about a specific career while still being realistic. Keep these tips in mind to work toward your dream job and turn it into a reality once and for all. By staying level-headed throughout the process, you can enjoy the work you do while staying grounded.
