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10 Signs Your Career is Heading Off Track

February 11, 2009 | Author: Jessica Howard | Filed under: Moving Up

Do you daydream of punching small animals? That’s one of the telltale signs that it’s time to find a new job, according to this Career Builder commercial.

It’s definitely an LOL ad, but it offers a Band-Aid solution for people suffering from career dissatisfaction: Just go find a new job.

Unfortunately, finding a new job won’t cure career dissatisfaction.  The new job will typically replace the old job, becoming just as unfulfilling as the last one.

Finding career fulfillment comes from standing back, envisioning long-term goals, then mapping the steps to get there. In this economy, it’s even tougher to keep our career goals in mind. It’s easy to fall into the “I’m just lucky to have a job” trap and end up paralyzed.

Rather than resolving to job hunt, resolve to take control of your career. Even if you’re not a danger to small animals, there are plenty of other signs that your career is veering off track.

Here are 10 signs that you need to get behind the wheel:

1. You’re SUPER busy … looking busy

If you find yourself working longer hours and shoveling in lunch over your keyboard just to stay “visible”, you’re playing career defense.

2. You let the company make your decisions

You dream of starting your own business, but have handed your career keys over to a company, because it’s the “safest” option.

3. You’re a binge networker

Your networking style ranges from non-existent to frantic. In fact, you could be in the Networking Hall of Shame!

4. You’re up for a promotion, or a demotion, or whatever

You’re not really sure where you stand with your employer, how your performance is perceived and don’t know how to ask for feedback.

5. Here kitty, kitty … can I have a reference?

If you lost your job tomorrow, you’re not sure who in your network would recommend you or help you redirect.

6. You’re trapped under a large, heavy boss

Even if you’re working for a great company, your performance can be stifled by a lousy manager.

7. You wear your job like a bad suit

Your work shows your weaknesses more than your strengths. It doesn’t tap into your unique talents, strengths or passions.

8. Another degree, that’ll do it!

You’re trying to dodge career uncertainty by going back to school.

9. You’re stuck in left field

You have difficulty making your ideas and efforts stand out when working in a team.

10. Profuse sweating

When someone asks what you or your company does, you break out in a sweat. Their eyes glaze as you fumble through a vague description.

Related Resources

Network Readiness Evaluator

When Your Network Speaks, Does Opportunity Listen?

Know Your Strengths and How to Use Them

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