“After doing a study in a specific field you naturally start looking for a job that is the mostly expected from somebody with such background to choose. That’s what I did; I started looking for a job that I thought I want and after a few months of unsuccessful job applications, I started doubting what I am doing wrong. Until one day I met a person who asked me if I have thought about a career in a slightly different field. And honestly I hadn’t at that point. I had that fixed picture that I’ve created in my mind that I thought is “how it should be”, didn’t look around and explore different opportunities to really see what else I would like to do with my work life. So after a few months in one direction, I changed my job search strategy, rewrote my motivational letter and looked into other options. Nobody has it all figured out from the first moment. Trial and error is normal.” I., 24
“The biggest challenge was not to give up. After spending hours on preparing the perfect CV and perfect motivation letter for the perfect job, receiving that “I regret to inform you” email back time after time for months, is devastating and discouraging. Seeing on LinkedIn how everybody else but you landed their dream job within two months after they started applying, makes you angry and frustrated. However, giving up and sitting on the couch forever is just not an option; the “yes” will come when it’s the right moment, only if you continue looking for it. Stop comparing yourself to how others are doing, also helps a lot. Everybody’s story, struggles and successes are different.” S., 23
“Relying on your network and seeking out for help and support is an inevitable part of building your career. It doesn’t matter if you are looking for a job and feeling lost on what you should do or if you’re managing a work project for a while now and you’re stuck on a simple task you cannot deal with, it’s ok to ask for help. That doesn’t make you look weak or stupid. Look for people that you can think that they can give you valuable information and insight, prepare your questions and ask. And if they are able to help you, they most certainly will. That’s how you develop yourself and your career. Invest in building and maintaining your network.” L., 35
These are three pieces of general wisdoms, three milestones in building your career that can be applied in variety of situations one might end up in. Unfortunately, there is no one universal model that, if followed, will precisely guarantee the perfect career. However, building the right attitude that fits you and your goals best is always the right foundation.
By: Iva Plocheva