I’ve been working for almost two years as an interpreter and translator. However, I would really like to change the nature of my job. It’s just that I don’t know what sort of job I would like to do. Stephanie Leung
You are not alone in the quest for a fulfilling career. Even some people well into their middle-age are still pondering whether they are in the right job. My question to you is what particular aspect of your job made you decide to give up your professional training and career.
However, I am a strong believer in finding the right job that matches your abilities, personality and life values, because only then will you be able to find job satisfaction and a willingness to “go the extra mile” at work.
Obviously, you have professional knowledge of at least two or more languages. This is a clear competitive advantage over other jobseekers in a dynamic international business centre like Hong Kong.
Your training and experience in active listening, critical thinking and effective communication are also key competencies that employers across a wide range of industries are looking for. After identifying transferable skills, you have to ask yourself – based on your list – which aspects of your current job you find stressful or demotivating.
Start understanding what your natural work preferences are and actively ask people whom you trust for feedback on their observations of you. Making use of professional career assessment tools is a good way of obtaining objective data on yourself and informed guidance on career direction or choices.
Eventually, with a clear picture of your transferable skills and natural strengths, you will be able to build a career specification of “you”, helping you to identify jobs in which you will have the highest chance of both success and job satisfaction.
Remember, a bright future is for those who don’t treat life as a random incident.
Rebecca Cheung, managing director Greater China of the cut-e Group, is an expert in assessment and psychometric testing for talent selection, leadership development, succession planning and career guidance
