Be open-minded! Don’t take anything off the table.
- Broaden the scope of what jobs you think are possible for you.
- What jobs have you always been curious about, or thought you might like?
- What jobs have you seen your friends do that you always thought were really interesting?
- What jobs have you dismissed because you thought, “I’m a woman, that’s not for me”? Think again!
- Read every job post and ask yourself:
- Would this job meet my priorities?
- Does it interest me?
- Would I want to try that kind of work? (You don’t have to do it forever!)
- Am I capable of learning how to do that job? Don’t focus on if you could do the job right this moment – most jobs require at least some on-the-job training.
- Do your homework:
- Do some research about jobs that interest you.
- Try taking some career assessments (listed below).
- Conduct informational interviews with people whose jobs or companies you’re curious about.
“Am I qualified?” should NOT be the first thing you ask yourself
- Men apply to jobs when they’re only 60% qualified, women only apply when they’re 100% qualified.
- This is an excellent time to be looking for a job and to be changing careers if that is your desire. The unemployment rate in Vermont is really low (<3%). Many employers are having a hard time finding reliable, hardworking people to fill open positions – not even people with experience, just people who are willing to work and have a good attitude!
- You may be the most qualified person that applies! You may have some other skills or experience that they are excited about.
Consider a job in the trades, manufacturing, or STEM.
- High wages
- High demand areas – you’ll be able to find a job!
- Many are unionized, i.e., good benefits
- Low-cost and no-cost training options
- Established career ladder, opportunities for growth and increased earnings, stackable credentials