After over a decade with my current employer, I'm anticipating a change and not sure what I want to do next.

Anonymous

May 22,2023 at 2:59PM UTC

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After over a decade with my current employer, I'm anticipating a change and not sure what I want to do next. The writing seems to be on the wall that my time with the company is limited (I'd rather not get into details of how/why I know, since that's not relevant to my ask here). The problem is that I don't know what I'd like to do next, besides that I want it to be entirely different, yet all of the aptitude and skills tests indicate that I'm already in the role I'm best suited for (HR/C-Suite). I've been doing this for 20 years. Any suggestions for how to figure out what's right for me in the next chapter? I've spoken with people who know me best, career counselors, and a therapist to get their insights. I'd rather avoid going back to school without some direction, and preferably not at all. I have an MBA. I would love the flexibility to choose when and where I work, from home or otherwise, instead of being tied to an office on a fixed schedule. Any and all thoughts/ideas/suggestions are very welcome!

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Courtney BooneMay 22,2023 at 3:39PM UTC
I suggest reading the book "Do Over" by Jon Acuff. It is geared toward people in your position who are trying to figure out what to do next career-wise.
AnonymousMay 22,2023 at 5:08PM UTC
Take the Clifton Strengths Assessment and follow the resources they provide for career choices. Mine were spot on.
AnonymousMay 22,2023 at 8:58PM UTC
How about training? You're exactly the type of person who provided the best seminars and workshops for me as a front-line manager. It's the kind of thing you can do as a volunteer or per-session provider to test the waters.
Maggie StoneMay 23,2023 at 8:12PM UTC
I have faced a similar situation. I changed careers at 40. I went back to graduate school. This is the best decision I made. Since you’re not sure what you want to do, I have a couple of recommendations to guide you to finding your next step. I highly recommend the book “What color is your Parachute.” It has invaluable information for career changers at any level. It should be available at your local library. Also Monster has some free career tests that may be useful. Here’s the link: https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/best-free-career-assessment-tools. Again, becoming a Therapist at 40 was the best decision I’ve ever made. I wish you the best of luck in your next chapter.
Joann S. LublinMay 24,2023 at 2:47PM UTC
You also could start your own consultancy advising other companies about various talent management issues where you've got years of experience and expertise. Best of luck!
Maegan, Nike Sales Rep & Career CoachMay 25,2023 at 6:16PM UTC
Hey Anonymous,
*Without thinking about the skills/aptitude tests... If you were to think about your IDEAL next job, what would that be?
*What would get you excited to work everyday?
*Is there a different skill or mission you've been wanting to learn or contribute to?
If you are interested in working with a coach on getting clear on what you want to do next, here is my consult call link! I'd love to help you navigate through this to land somewhere you are excited about. https://maeganmillercoaching.as.me/consultcall
AnonymousMay 25,2023 at 11:17PM UTC
You can consult for several companies that are experiencing major growth or major loss. Companies don't always know how to manage things and need temporary assistance. Once up and running, the company's you assist typically know other companies in need of your assistance.