As Aotearoa New Zealand grapples with increasing unemployment and a rapidly changing economic landscape, many people are uncertain about how to move forward in their careers. In these challenging times, there are both risks and opportunities, so it's important to think strategically.
I suggest that the best approach is to engage both heart and mind (subjective and objective) when considering change, progression, and development. Without a balanced approach, you are likely to face challenges – either in terms of impacts on your personal life, or by taking on more than you can handle, or that you lack the necessary skills.
This can happen whether you are without work or working for an organisation you are happy to continue working for.
1. Assess Your Current Situation and Life Circumstances
Start by taking stock of where you are now. Understand both your subjective and objective considerations.
Your subjective considerations:
• What matters to me in life?
• What does ‘success’ mean to me?
• How do I want to experience life in five years?
Your objective considerations:
• What are the skills I want to develop?
• What transferable experiences do I have that could contribute to a more senior position?
• What is my value?
In times of uncertainty, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of your current (or last) position to identify gaps and areas for improvement. It can also highlight opportunities you might not have considered before. If you are employed, try having a career conversation with your manager to explore areas you might grow into. Working with a good career coach will make this part of the process easier – and they offer neutral, expert support and up-to-the-minute assessments to help.
2. Upskill and Reskill
The job market is changing quickly, with some industries getting smaller and others, like technology, healthcare, and sustainability, growing. To stay competitive, think about improving your skills or learning new ones to adjust to these changes. Online courses, certifications, and vocational training programmes are more available than ever and can be completed from the comfort of your home.
For New Zealanders, platforms such as Te Pūkenga, Academy X and FutureLearn offer a variety of short or online courses to help build new skills. From learning a coding language to studying digital marketing or even exploring leadership development programmes, these resources can help you remain relevant in an ever-changing job market.
3. Expand Your Network
Networking has always been a crucial aspect of career progression, but in challenging times, it becomes even more important. Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your industry, join relevant groups, and engage in meaningful conversations. Attending webinars, online workshops, or local networking events can also help you build relationships that could lead to new opportunities. If still working, maintain your internal relationships well. Think about how important these relationships are key to your networking, building trust, understanding opportunities and simply having allies.
4. Consider a Career Pivot
Uncertain times may offer a unique chance to explore a career pivot. If you're in an industry that is particularly hard-hit by economic challenges, this could be a time to explore other fields where your skills are transferable. Many people in New Zealand consider moving into growing industries such as technology, renewable energy, or creative sectors.
Before making a big leap, research your new field carefully. Consider:
• What transferable skills and experiences can I offer this industry?
• Who can I talk to who works in this industry to check my background and transferable skills would be of interest?
If a career change feels daunting, consider a side hustle, contracting or freelance work to test the waters before fully committing.
5. Embrace Flexibility
A key factor for success in today’s job market is flexibility. Being open to contract roles, part-time opportunities, or even freelance work can keep your income steady while providing valuable experience. With New Zealand’s strong gig economy and platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer, there are more opportunities than ever to build a portfolio or expand your skill set while earning an income.
6. Seek Professional Guidance
Finally, consider working with a career coach or mentor to guide you through this uncertain time. Career coaches can help you create a strategic plan, identify your strengths, and guide you through the process of job hunting, upskilling, or even transitioning into a new career. A mentor can provide valuable insight into your industry and help you make informed decisions about your next steps.
In New Zealand, organisations like Clearhead and CareerEQ offer career coaching services tailored to the current job market, helping you navigate challenges and build a resilient career plan.
Navigating the Future
Though the job market may be challenging, taking proactive steps can help you stay ahead. By assessing your current situation, investing in upskilling, expanding your network, and remaining open to new opportunities, you’ll be in a stronger position to progress in your career. Remember, uncertain times often lead to innovation and change—embracing these shifts can ultimately bring you closer to your long-term career goals.
Kaye Avery,
Clearhead Career Coach
