Best career for someone like me
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Anonymous
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I am somewhat shy and terrible at self-promotion and office politics. I think before speaking, and am slow to process information. For example, when presented with a decision, I need time and mental space to think through all the possibilities before coming up with a response. I am not at all competitive, and much prefer a collegial, collaborative environment. I am good at recognizing issues/problems, but not so good at coming up with solutions (not seen as proactive or solutions-oriented).
Unfortunately, these things have hindered my career. I've missed out on opportunities because someone else is quicker on their feet to seize them, or I fly under the radar because of my quiet and reserved nature, or I just can't muster up the courage to take risks and put myself out there. I have never held jobs for longer than 3-5 years because I grow bored and unmotivated/dissatisfied with the people, the work, and the lack of opportunity (which I'm aware is partially my fault). Frankly, I am tired of job-hopping and just want to find a place where I can realize my potential. Any ideas? Thanks DCUM. |
Anonymous
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That's really hard. You've got to work on coming up with solutions. The collegial environment exists, but your potential is being hampered because you can critique, but you can't fix.
You can be a QA engineer, but that's about all I can think off the top of my head. What can you do to reduce what you see as your disadvantages? |
Anonymous
| Are you willing to get more education? You sound like an introvert who needs a low-key work environment. How about becoming a librarian? |
Anonymous
| Work on your relationship-building skills and try to get a mentor that is in a position of power in your organization. However, if you really want your career to progress, you have to do some soul-searching and maybe work on correcting the personality traits that hinder you. And do yourself a favor and join Toastmasters. |
Anonymous
| You sound just like me. I'm a nanny I like not having co workers and bosses I hardly ever see. I spend my day with young toddlers at the library, play group and parks. It works for me. |
Anonymous
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You can have any career you want, you just need to learn to manage your limitations.
First of all, recognize that many of your so called "limitations" are also pluses (I think you already know this perectly well). I manage a large team and I've never once said "I wish I had fewer employees who think before they speak." or "I wish fewer of my employees enjoyed working in collaborative treams." Second, recognize that what some of what your most successful coworkers are doing that comes across as "seizing the moment" or "spontaneity" is actually a reflection of hard work and preparation. Everyone is afraid to say something hat sounds stupid. The way you manage this fear is by being very well prepared before you go into a situation. Do a lot of background reading. Play through scenarios in your head. Think about your ideal outcome. If you've already imagined your boss saying "I have this interesting opportunity. . ." And you saying "I think I am the right fit for that" you are much more likely to hear those words coming out of your mouth when it actually happens. Maybe it's EASIER for your co-workers, but it's not easy for anyone. You just might need to work a bit harder than them. Third, engineer situations that you are comfortable in and can thrive in. Chicken out in big meetings? Start more conversations via e-mail (or follow up via e-mail). Your voice gets lost at big team lunches? Invite your coworkers out in smaller groups. Fourth, practice the things you are bad at. Don't like talking in public? Do toastmasters. Can't stomach saying harsh stuff? Yell at some people anonymously on DCUM to work up your courage. Finally, use the skills you are best at. If your skill is being a good team player, do that as well as you can. Yes, there are jerk coworkers who will screw you over. But the overwhelming evidence on this subject shows that it's nice people who get ahead, because their bosses, subordinates, and coworkers all want to see them succeed. Hope that helps. |
Anonymous
You sound like me, OP. I am an introvert, I like to think things very much through before making a decision. I also am very quick to detect issues/problems and am a great sounding board. It has all in all resulted in a good career, but not a spectacular one. I have come to terms with that realization. I am the right hand person to a charismatic executive who has the people skills, while I handle all the technical stuff. He shines in the spotlight, but could not be there without my support. It works out great for both of us. I also take my time to speak in meetings, but even though I rarely speak up, when I do, people tend to remember what I say and value my insights, perhaps because I have taken the time to actually think before speaking? I would suggest finding a specialized niche where technical skills are valued and becoming very knowledgeable in that niche. I would also second finding a mentor who knows how to work with introverts. |
Anonymous
| It's sad, but people who self promote usually do get promoted. |
Anonymous
Actuary? IT Architect? |
Anonymous
Ha! As a librarian, I can say it is not low-key work. Unless you become a cataloger and don't work with the public. The only low-key librarian job I ever had was at a very small college. Low-key but also super boring. You are in a tough spot. Good luck to you. |
Anonymous
| What are your skills and interests? It's not all about personality. |
Anonymous
| Confused by the IT recommendations. You need to be quick on your feet in those jobs, as you pretty much live and die by deadlines and emergencies. |
Anonymous
| Definitely NOT IT Architect. Whoever said that, are you kidding me? An IT architect in most cases, is the solution architect so they better be GREAT at problem solving. |
Anonymous
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Not IT, lot's of stress and quick decision making.
I would opt for teaching because you can lean on guidance and will plan your day. |
Anonymous
| I never had an introverted teacher as a child. Would have liked one, actually. |