Changing Jobs Outside Your Comfort Zone

(c) Can Stock Photo / kmitu

             
                      
Changing jobs outside your comfort zone. Has this happened to you? Or, are you contemplating crossing over into another career choice or type of work you have never done before? Of course, if you have had formal schooling in a new career choice and you are waiting for the right job to come along then this article is not for you. Today, I am addressing those who might have a little experience in the new job but basically will need to learn a great deal more to keep the job.  So where to begin...

First, you can do it. Learning a new job skill on the job is extremely challenging.  You got it though! Let's look at some tips to keep you happy and sane:

• You have already demonstrated some job skills and no doubt a great attitude to get this job.  The employer sees in you the potential to take on this new job skill. They have already put faith in you by hiring you. Now, you just have to believe in yourself.
• Assess your strengths and weaker areas.  Work on them both. No need to talk about this. You know what they are. Excel in what you are strong in.
• Take clear and understandable notes that you can follow. Some people make a notebook with tabs to follow the details. This is crucial to a new job.
• At home, go online and see what learning tools are available free at this time that can add knowledge to your job. Yes, "You Tube" is a great place to start.
• When in doubt, don't be afraid to ask your boss for their advice as to the proper procedure in something you have never done before. Humility here shows you are willing to learn. Nobody knows everything.
• As time goes on, you may be able to find a fee-based course either in a class you can take nearby or online at night perhaps on the weekends. Some employers may help with this fee or pay it all.

Whatever you do don't give up. There will be times that you will be overwhelmed. This is normal. However, as time goes on you will get more comfortable with the accumulated knowledge and skills you are building daily. Remember, a strong building is done in layers. This is the same with your new job.  One day at a time.  Have faith in yourself and hit this job with a fresh and happy spirit of "can do."

Do You Really Know More Than Your Boss?

So you think you know more than your boss; maybe you do.  As a result of any downturn in an economy, many seasoned workers and professionals have found themselves in entry level jobs. Taking instructions from a supervisor that is both younger and less experienced than you are can be a humbling and upsetting experience.  Do you find yourself in this situation?  If so, how will you react to your supervisor's instructions and at times even criticism?  Here are a few things to weigh out that may help you to remain calm and still find joy in your job:

1. You don't know everything.   Despite the fact that you have years of experience, it is likely that your supervisor has kept up-to-date on the current facets of the particular job you are in.  Yes they may not have the experience you have, but they may be up-to-date with the current procedures and fresher techniques involved in your job. 
2. Let your work, not your mouth, display your abilities and skills.  Nobody likes a know-it-all, including your boss and co-workers.  In time, your abilities will shine without offending those above and around you. 
3. Volunteer for special projects.  From time to time, situations may arise that will create an opportunity for you to volunteer to take on projects you are experienced to do.  This also shows you are willing to help when the need arises.  That would be an opportunity to show what your experience is about.
4. When the pill is too hard to swallow.  Obviously, there will be situations where you find it extremely difficult to adjust to ineptness and the lack of knowledge your supervisor or boss have about the product or procedure you are working with.  However, when faced with glaring safety or legal issues  it is a different ballgame.  Management needs to know the particulars of such issues.  If they do not respond to the factors involved, then think about moving on to another position elsewhere.  To cover yourself, make sure you document the dates and conversations that you relay the safety or legal issues to management. 

Yes, it is not easy for the thousands of workers that find themselves now, through no fault of their own, in positions they held many years ago when they left college or finished high school.  As the job market continues to rise, you may be able to find more suitable work that will utilize those awsome skills you possess.  Until then, you may know more than the boss.  That's okay.  You don't need to prove anything to anybody.  Continue to allow your skills and experience to speak for themselves.  Look at your current job as floating devices that are keeping your head out of water (financially).  Be happy, you will swim again...