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Mr. Welch,

I'm 35 yrs. old, and what I do best and enjoy the most is putting together large, short-term projects (conferences, retreats, etc.). I thrive on novelty and dislike a level of routine -- I'm good at setting up and executing, but maintenance is not my area of strength. I have a bachelor's degree in psychology, a wide variety of volunteer experience (most of it teaching, or retreat-master type stuff), and have worked as a Catholic liturgy coordinator for a large parish and most recently an Information Receptionist for a large hospital. I'm a big-picture person, but proficient at putting the details in place that make the whole cohesive and successful.

Right now I'm rethinking the direction of my work life. I have a broad variety of work experiences, but I don't have a mental picture of myself as a _________. No definitive job title comes to mind. I pursue activities within my above-mentioned areas of strength in my personal life as well as my work life, and so what I'm really looking for is either a job that allows me to keep an active life apart from it, or a job that melds with what I enjoy doing on my own time. Help!

I have at various times felt guilty about my setup, execute and move-on tendencies -- wary of the label "dilettante." At this point in my life, however, I can't help but think that the world needs people like me for ... something. The question is, how can I best find my place in today's job market given my experience and credentials (or lack thereof)? Due to my husband's line of work, we are subject to moving from one part of the country to another periodically, another factor to consider.

Ms. S.

  Hi Ms. S,

When we think about careers for ourselves, we often think in pretty narrow terms. You know, like I should be a ________.(butcher, baker, candlestick maker, sewer cleaner, fireman, cowboy, pilot, executive or chef.)  In reality, our talents, skills and interests could land us in any number of different jobs. And those jobs in which we have an interest may change over time. So, right off the bat, expand your horizons from one job or career to any number of possibilities.

Now, the best way to do that is to ask friends and family and people you encounter for their suggestions. First, tell them what you do well and what your interests are and then, get their opinion on what you might do with your talents. You'll be amazed at the suggestions and one or more will sound very interesting to you. 

From the brief description you gave, the hotel, hospitality industry comes to my mind. Every hotel has a sales and catering department which sets up all the functions at that property. Lots of organization needed, good people skills and the ability to carry a project through to completion. And a bonus...no matter where you live, there is a need. Every city has hotels with meetings, weddings, anniversaries, etc.

Go make it happen!
 

Good Luck!

Tom Welch
"America's Career Coach"

p.s.  I'd also suggest you pick up a copy of my newest Job Search Manual, the Breakthrough Job Search Cure.  You'll learn how to Market Yourself in Record Time and Find the BEST JOB you've ever had!  https://www.JobSearchCure.com/order.asp 

To Learn More about Tom's new product, the Breakthrough Job Search Cure, CLICK HERE now.  Have a great week!

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