UPC MOPS: Christina McCracken::Career Planning and Advice for Mothers

We were so glad to have Christina come talk to us about jumping back into the working world after staying home with our kids. For those of us just beginning, she helped give us a place to start. For those with their feet already wet, she gave tangible steps to move forward and make progress. Wherever we find ourselves, she reminded us that any start is a good start and that it is a journey. Where we end up may look very different than where we began, but isn't that life? #wisdom

Click HERE for the recording of Christina's talk.

Enjoy!

Christina is a Career Consultant who began her talk by pointing out that this path is not linear. It can take all sorts of turns and twists and end up in a completely different direction than when you started. But there are some concrete steps to take to get there.

1.) Where are you in the process?

Discernment: figuring out what you want to do. Is it a specific role or handful or skills you can bring to a number of places? Talk to people. Ask them what they see in you or what you're good at. What are your values? Priorities? Skills?
Strategy: a plan that takes into account where the job landscape and your abilities meet. What does the field you're interested in require? More education or a certificate? Is this feasible? What are the hours? Do your research (job sites help with this).
Action: you know where you wantt to be and are ready to begin the search. This involves meeting with people, taking some informational interviews. Those one-on-ones can be more helpful as that person can be more honest and straightforward about their job than at a formal interview. Also, keep contact/relationships up...referrals and recruiters take those recommendations seriously.

2.) Next Steps

Assessments: MBTI, Strengths Finder, Career Assessment, etc. Ask your friends what gifts or strengths they see in you.
ResearchL Networking, Informational INterviews, LinkedIn, etc.
Action Plan: Personal Narrative and Marketing Materials