Pivoting in Your Career: Take These Steps Before Making a Leap

If you have ever worked in a industry or role that no longer aligns with your personal goals or values, it may be time to transition to a new role. This realization does not come easy and many factors should be taken into account before switching a job or career. Using these tips can make that choice a bit more clearer for you. 

What are your strengths? 

Assessing your strengths are incredibly important to identifying your strongest skillset. You can simply make a list of all of the strengths you have or widen the net and expand this question to your friend or trusted coworkers. This could actually surprise you on what you think may be your strength vs. what may actually be your strengths. This exercise could also be an eye opener and an opportunity to brush up on skills you may need for your career path. 

What are your passions? 

This sounds like the easiest question to answer. Simply ask yourself, “what makes you feel alive?” This could be anything, even outside of work. Whatever may be on the list, are things that give you energy or even your “why”. This is very important to understand your motivation and also find purpose in your work. 

Identify Why You Don’t Like your Current Role

Any recruiter, HR person or hiring manager is going to ask about your previous role. Before we get to the interview, this is a question you should ask yourself. Maybe it is your workload, the culture of the company or maybe you are being micromanaged, there is no wrong answer, but learning how to frame it in interviews is important. This is also a good identifier of tasks you like and tasks you do not enjoy, this is helpful in the search for a new role.

What are Your Personal Goals and How Do Your Career Goals Match Up? 

This is the fun part. Assess your career goals and line them up with your personal goals. Do they match up? Are they incredibly imablanced? Try this tip: Envision your life in 3 years - what does your life look like? You may not have a perfect picture, but this will give you a general idea of where the direction you want to go in. Review these goals and make sure your career goals align. For instance, maybe you see yourself traveling, so you want to choose a career that will allow you to do so. 

Audit Your Time Management Skills 

Time management skills can make or break your success. You can have the most talent in the room, but if you are not efficient and use your time wisely, it can negatively impact your performance at the job and in life. In roles where deadlines are tight and follow through is highly valued, time management is the key to your success. To get better at this, try blocking your time and tracking where you tend to waste time - you will be surprised to see where your time is actually going. 

Assess your finances 

Before making any switch in your career, run the numbers first. Review your banking transactions, subscriptions and other things that are tied to your money, so you can ensure this is a good choice financially. If you don’t have an emergency fund, now is the perfect time to start stacking up for any future inconveniences. How much money do you need to make in order to pay your bills? These are very important questions to ask yourself so your bills are not impacted. 

Check Your Mental Health 

Of all of the things listed, this is the most important. There is a high likelihood that the reason you want to change industries is due to mental health. If that is the case, congrats on making this decision. Your mental health means more than anything. Before making the step to another industry, check where your mental capacity is: can you handle a fast paced job? Do you find purpose in the work you are doing? Burnout among these notes tie into your mental health and could be a barrier in any role you are in. 

When it comes to taking a pivot in your career, it is a very hard decision to make. These notes are are great markers to help you along that process.

Did this resonate with you? I would love to hear your feedback! Shoot us an email or leave your comment below!

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Unbox the 2024 Werk Babe Summer Box

This summer, Werk Babe decided to take the fun outside with this season’s box. The theme of this summer’s box was “Out of Office” and it set the mood for a perfect day out of the office, preferably in the sun having a blast. 

“Out of Office” Tote Bag

This was the star of the show showcasing a trendy tote with “Out of Office” on it. This tote is perfect to bring to the Farmer’s market, beach or your next event no matter the season. The bag is spacious, so it can fit anything you may need on your day out. 

Calming Face Mist by Natural Outcome

Experience a calming moment with this facial mist. This light spray is made with natural lavender oil and perfect to cool you off or give you a moment of bliss at the office. Keep this is your desk when you need to freshen up or a quick pick me up during the day. After a long stressful day, this is a like a breath of fresh air for your face.

Car Diffusers 

When you head out of the office and get in your car, enjoy the summer scents of Island Coconut, Ocean Breeze, Sea Salt & Orchid, and Sun-kissed. Each scent is perfect to set the mood for your summer road trip or a quick trip out of the office during lunch. Either way, your car is going to smell amazing all summer long. 

Leisuremann’s Cocktail Mixes 

What is a summer getaway without a refreshing drink? We have included a 2 cocktail mixes in your box that is sure to be the cherry on top of your time out of the office. The cocktails include Cosmos and Bee’s Knees, 2 crowd favorites that will not disappoint. Be sure to drink responsibility…

101 Essays that Will Change the Way You Think by Brianna West 

While you are enjoying a moment to yourself, check out this book by Brianna West. These essays give you an opportunity to look at situations from different perspectives and is sure to make your stay by the beach much more exciting. This is a fantastic read. 

Portable Handheld Mini Fan 

This summer may be a scorcher, but you do not have to suffer! Whether you are in the office or out enjoying the day, this mini fan can help keep you cool and stylish. Also, the fan might be mini, but it definitely delivers the fan power needed to get the job done. 

About Werk Babe Box

Werk Babe is a seasonal subscription box for professional women. Our boxes are designed for women to celebrate themselves INSIDE and OUTSIDE the workplace. You give so much to yourself to everyone else, you deserve a treat for yourself.

Want to experience Werk Babe for yourself? Subscribe to our email list for updates on box releases and discounts! Do not miss your chance to treat yourself, because you deserve it. 

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Do You Need a Recruiter to Get a Job?

Have you ever wondered if you absolutely have to work with recruiters when job searching? 

I love hearing the perspective of candidates and other career coaches and how they feel about the job process as a whole. It's always interesting to hear  some of the feedback about what their thoughts are about the role of recruiters in the job search process.

I remember being on a career coaching panel and another coach said that they HATE recruiters. Now, being in the career community, this is not the first time that I have heard this. In fact, a lot of people would be surprised about my take on the relationship between recruiters and candidates. 

Since I am both a recruiter and career coach, I have a unique perspective on each point that was raised.  Here are some subjects that were raised during the panel and my REAL thoughts.

True or False? : A recruiter can be a barrier in the job searching process.

This is two fold. It is true, recruiters have to follow a process. They usually have a certain amount of calls they have to make and they are juggling a lot of balls at once which can lead to burnout. So I can be honest in saying that dealing with a recruiter can be less of an intimate candidate experience depending on your recruiter. 

A good recruiter nurtures a candidate throughout the hiring process. Let's start with the notion that you don't need a recruiter: You will more than likely deal with a Recruiter or an HR Rep at some point of the process.

• The truth is that companies need help with bringing on new talent. Even the best startup will most likely bring on some one or outsource to find talent - this means finding or sourcing, interviewing, making offers and onboarding which needs to be legally compliant.

• At some point in your job searching process, you will encounter them, so I agree that they play a part in the hiring process. They can always let you know when there are other jobs that may come available

My verdict: It is always good to know a recruiter in whatever industry you work in. They can give you the lay of the land of the hiring trends and let you know about opportunities.

True or False?: Getting a referral is the easiest way to get a job.

I agree with this wholeheartedly! I would say that getting the RIGHT referral is the easiest way to get a job. The fact is,  the candidates who know someone with a great rapport amongst management are the ones that get through the process quickly. 

Jobseekers must know that even as a referral, you will have to go through some type of process i.e the company’s application, offer letter, etc

My verdict: Network! Network! Network! You never know who you might meet - you could make a great friend or a link to your next opportunity. 

True or False?: Recruiters don't care about a candidate’s experience.  

This will depend on the company and the recruiter. Depending on the company, they may have an applicant tracking system that will automatically disqualify you if you don't have keywords in your resume. A good recruiter puts the candidate's experience first. 

• For the Candidates: Find the recruiter of the company (or someone prominent in the department you are aiming for) and email them your CV (this is a key time to add your cover letter). This will for sure make you stand out against other candidates.

• For the recruiters: Ask the candidate how their experience was, most likely they will be honest with you. 

True or False?: The Recruiter does not make the final decision 

In many ways this is  true - the final say does usually rest with someone else, Especially if you are dealing with an internal recruiting and not a staffing agency- most likely you will be interviewing with someone else or at least given a yay or nay by someone else that is in authority in the department or company you are going applying for. 

My verdict: Most times they don’t make the final decision, but let's not count out the role recruiters play in the process. 

Final Thoughts: 

Here's the thing, say you apply for a job you aren't good at and you just rely on connections at a specific company. If you are not selected for the job, your resume will mostly stay in the hands of that same person. Now a recruiter - a good one anyways, main concern is to ALWAYS have a candidate in mind for a role. Recruiters are constantly building their network full of professionals and new employers who may have a lead that could fit your expertise. This means that a good impression left on a great recruiter will keep you in mind for a future position that come across their desk. 

All in all, when it comes to securing your next opportunity, your safest bet is to cover your bases. Get your resume in front of the key players and utilize the recruiter to as a resource throughout the process.

Conquering the Stages of Burnout

You know that feeling of impending doom and your heart racing while being exhausted, but you're freakishly awake? Yep, that's  burnout. 

Earlier in 2021, Forbes reported findings from a survey done by Development Dimensions International Inc. that found that nearly 60% of leaders reported they feel “used up” at the end of the workday, which is a major indicator of burnout. 

Its no secret that burnout happens to be one of the main reasons why people leave jobs. You never think its going to happen when you first start a new role because things are so cheery and then you realized what you signed up for…

According to theburnoutqueen.com, There are 5 stages of burnout and trust me, you will feel the impact of every single one of them. The only way to navigate your way through burnout is to be armed with tools and resources for every stage. 

Here are the stages: 

1. The Honeymoon Phase 

2. Onset of Stress 

3. Chronic Stress 

4. Burnout 

5. Taking Action 

Stage: Honeymoon 

How to Conquer It: Keep everything in check 

In the beginning, everything is new and shiny, you’re learning new things and so excited about your role, much like a relationship, this is the  honeymoon stage. The only way to conquer this stage is to keep everything in perspective. Why did you take this job? Make a list of goals to achieve in your first 90 days.  

PRO TIP: Use the SMART method to create your 90 day goals. Make sure they are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely. 

Stage: Onset of Stress 

How to Conquer It: Find an Outlet 

This is the stage when the stress starts to hit and you start to lack focus. To conquer this stage make sure you are practicing self-care and find an outlet to channel your stress. Get back to the basics - drink your water, stay active, but also remember to do something you love. 

Stage: Chronic Stress 

How to Conquer It: Take a Vacation 

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If there was ever a time to use your vacation time, this is it. This stage is when you start to second guess your role, the company, sometimes your whole career. Do not go down this rabbit whole. You need to step away to refocus the big picture. Your job could very well be a toxic environment, but you need to gain perspective. Preferably with a cocktail...AND on a beach far, far away… 

Stage: Burnout 

How to Conquer It: Create a Life Outside of Work 

Burnout is one of the worst feelings in the world. The very thing that once invigorated you now because something you loathe. So again, you need perspective. You need something that inspires you outside of the office that can keep you going. Family, friends and the life you create for yourself matters more than any job. 

Stage: Taking Action 

How to Conquer It: Tap into Your Resources 

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When you find yourself in a deep depression and sad more often than not, it is time to get help. If you find yourself lost and falling into depression due to burnout, I implore you to look into these options:

• Get a therapist - Personally, I think a therapist is a great thing with or without burnout, but that is another conversation for a different day..

• Look into your company’s EAP Program - if offered, this company offers great resources to navigate tough times at work

• New Job - it may be that your are in a toxic workplace, a change of environment might be just what you need. 

• Career Change - If you’ve exhausted your love for your current industry, think about what other careers might bring you fulfillment.

Final Word: 

We work incredibly hard in our careers. We give time and deviation to our work and we love it, but sometimes the job does not love us back. Just like any relationship, Tap back into your reason and your purpose. In fact, your job may have led you to your purpose, but when it becomes toxic, DO NOT be afraid to take a step back and take care of you.

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5 Planners You Need to get Organized in 2021

Ok, so there was really no need for a planner in 2020. It seems like we were hit from every angle- socially, financially, economically and physically. We are now towards the end of Quarter 1 of 2021 and it is time to check in.

This year we are coming in hot. I mean, if we can handle a pandemic with grace, we are going to OWN our careers, finances and personal affairs. The only way we can prepare for what is to come for the rest of 2021 is to plan and allow for room for change - we want our planners to hold that same energy.

I am a girl that has a 9-5, side-hustle and working on other goals so I want a planner that I can use for every area in my life that is aesthetically pleasing and motivates me throughout the week.  Every year I vow to tighten up my finances, stay consistent in my side-hustle and be accountable with fitness.

Since I know how much of a struggle it is to find a valuable planner each year,  I took the luxury to list a few of my favorites and other planners that would add value to our goals.

I am on the search for planners by small businesses, so please send along any suggestions!

Day Designer

Photo Credit: daydesigner.com

This will always be one of my favorites! Their planners are so versatile and you can implement a system in your daily plan that works for you. This one is so worth it if you value daily and weekly goal setting.

Commit30

Photo Credit: https:commit30.com

This planner is a game changer. They offer so many different versions and for every goal that you may have. They offer planners for fitness, joy, and goal setting. They also have digital planners that have printable options for fitness, food, shopping and money. If you need versatility, this one is for you.

Leaders in Heels

Photo: leadersinheels.com

Their Phenomenal Woman Planner is for the woman with big dreams. If you have goals and projects to accomplish this planner helps you organize your thoughts and put your plan into action.

Ivory Paper Co.

Photo Credit: https://www.instagram.com/ivorypaperco/

They offer detailed planners for monthly, weekly and a budget planner. This site is a go to for customized stationary and even apparel.

The Happy Planner

Photo Credit: https://thehappyplanner.com/

The Happy Planner is one of the OG planner that give you tons of options, it is hard not to be organized when you have one of these on your side.

If you have any suggestions on planners that you use, please comment and send them along!