8.0 Career Self-Management
New challenges in the new economy
In the old days (not so long ago) of secure jobs and
benefit packages, when people got "The Job" of their dreams,
they had the luxury of relaxing a little. In those days, workers
expected that they would stay with one employer for an extended period
of time. They concentrated, not on being prepared to find other work,
but on getting ahead in the company.
This world has virtually disappeared and new
attitudes, skills and knowledge are required to succeed in your working
life. As a result, "career self-management" is emerging as a
way not only of surviving, but also of thriving in this new economy.
What does career self-management mean?
Essentially, career self-management is all about
taking responsibility for your own career development. It means:
- not relying on any business, organization,
government or union to look after your interests.
- making a commitment to lifelong learning and
continuing to develop new skills.
- being able to market yourself effectively to
potential employers and clients.
- creating and recognizing opportunities for work.
- taking responsibility for your personal financial
security and work-related benefits.
- learning to be adaptable and flexible in an era of
rapid change.
- taking risks, being creative, innovative and
courageous in the face of uncertainty.
- learning how to focus on hope and optimism during
times of chaos and transition.
- thinking of yourself as self-employed, as
"your own boss," even when you're working for someone
else. You are ultimately the one in charge of your career.
Workers can no longer expect long-term job security, but
what they can and should rely on is "skills security." If you
keep your skills up to date and can market them effectively, you will be
able to find work.
Here are some websites that can provide you with support in your career self-management.
Monster Career Centre
Some of the topics you'll find on this site are networking, job search, negotiation, management and leadership, internships and first jobs, and career development.
The Leadership Network
Check out this federal public service site for tools for leadership, networking, communication, teamwork and many other career development skills.
Workopolis Resource Center
An archive of useful material on interviewing, networking, and managing your career.
Career Journal
This U.S. site from the Wall Street Journal offers lots of great advice on managing your career effectively. Check out the topics in the left column.
Fast Company Career Center
You'll find lots of tools and resources for building your business, leading a team, going solo and launching or relaunching your career.
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