Changing Jobs Outside Your Comfort Zone

Summary

The article provides guidance for individuals transitioning to a new job outside their comfort zone, emphasizing self-belief, skill assessment, continuous learning, and perseverance.

Abstract

The article "Changing Jobs Outside Your Comfort Zone" addresses individuals who are either considering or have already started a job in a completely new field, with little prior experience. It encourages readers to have confidence in their ability to learn new skills on the job, suggesting that they assess their strengths and weaknesses to improve accordingly. The author recommends taking detailed notes, utilizing free online resources like YouTube for additional learning, and not being afraid to ask for help when needed. The article also suggests considering paid courses that could potentially be subsidized by the employer. The overarching message is to persist through the challenges of learning a new job, as proficiency will build over time, much like the layers of a strong building.

Opinions

The author believes that the employer's decision to hire is a vote of confidence in the potential of the new hire to master the required job skills.
It is implied that self-awareness regarding one's strengths and weaknesses is key to professional growth.
The article conveys the importance of humility and a willingness to learn, suggesting that asking for advice is a positive trait.
There is an opinion that feeling overwhelmed is a normal part of the learning process in a new job, and it should not deter one from continuing.
The author holds the view that skills and knowledge accumulate progressively, leading to increased comfort and proficiency over time.
The author encourages a positive and proactive attitude towards learning and adapting to the new job, likening the process to building a strong foundation layer by layer.

Changing Jobs Outside Your Comfort Zone

Changing jobs outside your comfort zone. Has this happened to you? Or, are you contemplating crossing over into another career choice or type of work you have never done before? Of course, if you have had formal schooling in a new career choice and you are waiting for the right job to come along then this article is not for you. Today, I am addressing those who might have a little experience in the new job but basically will need to learn a great deal more to keep the job. So where to begin… First, you can do it. Learning a new job skill on the job is extremely challenging. You got it though! Let’s look at some tips to keep you happy and sane:

You have already demonstrated some job skills and no doubt a great attitude to get this job. The employer sees in you the potential to take on this new job skill. They have already put faith in you by hiring you. Now, you just have to believe in yourself.

Assess your strengths and weaker areas. Work on them both. No need to talk about this. You know what they are. Excel in what you are strong in.

Take clear and understandable notes that you can follow. Some people make a notebook with tabs to follow the details. This is crucial to a new job.

At home, go online and see what learning tools are available free at this time that can add knowledge to your job. Yes, “You Tube” is a great place to start.

When in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask your boss for their advice as to the proper procedure in something you have never done before. Humility here shows you are willing to learn. Nobody knows everything.

As time goes on, you may be able to find a fee-based course either in a class you can take nearby or online at night perhaps on the weekends. Some employers may help with this fee or pay it all.

Whatever you do don’t give up. There will be times that you will be overwhelmed. This is normal. However, as time goes on you will get more comfortable with the accumulated knowledge and skills you are building daily. Remember, a strong building is done in layers. This is the same with your new job. One day at a time. Have faith in yourself and hit this job with a fresh and happy spirit of “can do.”