The fresh start of the New Year spurs many people to examine their lives, evaluating what’s working and what isn’t. Your work life is often top of the list. Not only is it central to our identity (what’s one of the first questions you usually ask when you meet someone — What do you do?), it’s also where we spend a lot of time.

With research showing that only about half of U.S. workers are truly satisfied with their jobs, the New Year is the perfect time to evaluate one’s career path and, if needed, make a plan toward change.

“When your work aligns with your values, you find meaning and purpose every day,” said Amy Albertson, Senior Manager of Career Services. “You deserve a job that excites you — one that inspires and motivates you reach your full potential.”

Amy’s Story

Amy knows firsthand how difficult and frustrating it can feel to be in the wrong job. She’d been working for several years doing corporate sales in a job that wasn’t a good fit — she made good money, but the company didn’t align with her values. When COVID hit, her company’s reaction to the pandemic was to bring everyone back into the office quickly, as if there was no threat.

“People were getting sick left and right with COVID,” said Amy. “I remember thinking, ‘I shouldn’t be put in a position to choose my job over my health and safety.’”

Amy chose to leave her position and had free time while planning her next career move. There was so much need in the world during those early days of the pandemic that she wanted to give back while she had the time. She turned to a place she knew well — JF&CS.

“I’m from Dunwoody, so I grew up with JF&CS in my backyard,” said Amy. “When I was 13, my parents got divorced and JF&CS clinical services helped me work through it. I’ve always known that the agency is here, that there are great things going on and that it’s a helpful place.”

Amy spent a lot of time at JF&CS over the next seven months, volunteering with One Good Deed and the Food Pantry for about 25 hours a week. She got to know the staff and when a Career Services Coordinator position opened up, she was encouraged to apply.

“I never thought I’d work at a nonprofit, but JF&CS aligns with my values, and I’ve ended up not only where I wanted to be, but where I needed to be,” said Amy. “It was really helpful when I started during the pandemic, because most of our clients were going through what I had just been through — people wanting to change jobs because theirs weren’t aligning with them.”

Kickstart the Job Search

If you’re like the half of Americans who aren’t satisfied with their career or are feeling stuck, Amy has suggestions for the next steps that can help you make informed decisions:

1. Assess your career goals – Define your future by creating short-term and long-term goals related to your career. Make sure to reassess yearly as priorities and goals change.

2. Evaluate your current position – Do you still enjoy the work you do? Are you using your skills to the best of your ability?

3. Explore your values – Make a list of the things that mean the most to you in your life and at work. Do you feel strongly about helping others, commitment to family, being involved in community, etc.?

4. Define your passions – What brings you joy? What doesn’t feel like work? What motivates you to get out of bed every morning?

5. Explore benefits – Know what is important to you right now in this time in your life. When looking at benefits, what comes to mind? Flexibility, health benefits, bonuses, vacation time, company culture, etc.

6. Speak with a mentor, coach or friend you trust – Ask for advice and seek help when needed.

“Once you’ve done some self-reflection and created your goals, make sure to start with small, achievable goals that align with your long-term career goals,” suggests Amy. “Often, we get burnt out and think we need a drastic change. Something as simple as finding an organization aligned with your values may do the trick.”

If you decide it is time for a shift, these steps will help guide you into your next venture. Reach out to careers@jfcsatl.org to speak with a Career Coach today!