|
Knowing Isn't DoingWhy So Many People are Mismatched in Their Careers
Steve Smith- Executive CoachGrowthSource Coaching |
The biggest workplace fallacy is that knowing something equates to doing it. Many people overemphasize education without practical application. In fact, 40% of working age adults in the United States are in jobs that did not match their educational pursuits. In addition, another 45% are working in jobs they are either overqualified for or underqualified for.
Knowledge Is Not Enough
Simply acquiring knowledge doesn't guarantee success; practical skills and application are crucial for career growth. Many talented individuals remain stagnant because they fail to put their knowledge into action.
Example:
A college graduate with a degree in computer science might excel academically but struggle in the workplace if they lack practical skills like coding experience or teamwork. For instance, a programmer who spends years studying algorithms but never contributes to real-world projects might be passed over for jobs by candidates with hands-on experience, like building apps or contributing to open-source communities.
Example:
A college graduate with a degree in computer science might excel academically but struggle in the workplace if they lack practical skills like coding experience or teamwork. For instance, a programmer who spends years studying algorithms but never contributes to real-world projects might be passed over for jobs by candidates with hands-on experience, like building apps or contributing to open-source communities.
The Cost of Overqualification
Graduates with advanced degrees often face hiring challenges, as employers may assume they will demand higher salaries, leading to missed opportunities. This can discourage young professionals from pursuing their ideal roles.
Example:
An MBA graduate applying for mid-level management positions might hear, "You're overqualified," because employers fear they won't stay long-term or will ask for higher pay. On the flip side, this candidate may avoid applying for entry-level roles, thinking their degree should automatically grant access to higher positions, creating a career stalemate.
Example:
An MBA graduate applying for mid-level management positions might hear, "You're overqualified," because employers fear they won't stay long-term or will ask for higher pay. On the flip side, this candidate may avoid applying for entry-level roles, thinking their degree should automatically grant access to higher positions, creating a career stalemate.
We've Got a Problem Podcast w/Andrew Wallace
Respect for Trade Skills
There is a societal bias against vocational training, even though skilled trades are vital to the economy. Recognizing the value of trades can lead to fulfilling career paths that are often overlooked.
Example:
A high school student interested in automotive repair may be discouraged by peers or family who see college as the only viable path to success. Yet, after completing a vocational program, they could secure a lucrative position as a certified mechanic, earning more than some college graduates while avoiding student debt. Skilled trades like electricians, plumbers, and welders often offer stable, high-demand careers with excellent earning potential.
Example:
A high school student interested in automotive repair may be discouraged by peers or family who see college as the only viable path to success. Yet, after completing a vocational program, they could secure a lucrative position as a certified mechanic, earning more than some college graduates while avoiding student debt. Skilled trades like electricians, plumbers, and welders often offer stable, high-demand careers with excellent earning potential.
Finding Your Passion
The transition from studying one field to thriving in another is common. Individuals like the analyst who switched from archaeology to market analysis exemplify how following true interests can lead to success.
Example:
Consider an art history graduate who struggles to find employment in museums but discovers a passion for graphic design. By taking a few design courses and leveraging their creative eye, they transition into a successful career in digital marketing, where their unique background sets them apart.
Example:
Consider an art history graduate who struggles to find employment in museums but discovers a passion for graphic design. By taking a few design courses and leveraging their creative eye, they transition into a successful career in digital marketing, where their unique background sets them apart.
Financial Realities of Education
Student debt is a significant issue, and many graduates struggle to find jobs that pay enough to cover their loans. This discrepancy highlights the need for more pragmatic career planning.
Example:
A psychology major with $50,000 in student loans might find entry-level jobs in their field paying $35,000 annually. Without careful financial planning, they could face years of economic hardship. On the other hand, a student who researched the job market might choose a more affordable school or a major with a higher starting salary, reducing debt and ensuring a quicker path to financial stability.
Example:
A psychology major with $50,000 in student loans might find entry-level jobs in their field paying $35,000 annually. Without careful financial planning, they could face years of economic hardship. On the other hand, a student who researched the job market might choose a more affordable school or a major with a higher starting salary, reducing debt and ensuring a quicker path to financial stability.
Strategic Career Planning
Having a clear strategy for applying knowledge to the job market is essential. Without a plan, all the credentials in the world may not lead to career success.
Example:
A journalism graduate might struggle to find a traditional reporting job but could strategically pivot by creating a niche blog, building a social media following, and marketing themselves as a digital media consultant. Planning for market trends rather than sticking rigidly to their degree focus increases their chances of success.
Example:
A journalism graduate might struggle to find a traditional reporting job but could strategically pivot by creating a niche blog, building a social media following, and marketing themselves as a digital media consultant. Planning for market trends rather than sticking rigidly to their degree focus increases their chances of success.
Aligning Skills with Opportunities
Finding a career that aligns with personal strengths and passions results in higher job satisfaction and success. The goal should be to connect skills with market needs for a fulfilling professional life.
Example:
An individual who excels at public speaking but dislikes sales may thrive in roles like corporate training or motivational speaking. For instance, someone passionate about sustainability could find fulfilling work as an advocate or policy advisor, turning a personal interest into a rewarding career.
Example:
An individual who excels at public speaking but dislikes sales may thrive in roles like corporate training or motivational speaking. For instance, someone passionate about sustainability could find fulfilling work as an advocate or policy advisor, turning a personal interest into a rewarding career.
What Now?
If you are at the start of your career, don't overlook the need for some self reflection. Getting really clear about your skills, your experience, your likes and your ambitions will enable you to chart a smart path to a career you will be happy and fulfilled over.
If you are in the middle of an unsatisfying career, don't stay there. Unlike red wine, it won't get better with time. Take stock of what you know and can do and plan your future carefully. In the end, action is what gets your doing what you will love the most.
If you are in the middle of an unsatisfying career, don't stay there. Unlike red wine, it won't get better with time. Take stock of what you know and can do and plan your future carefully. In the end, action is what gets your doing what you will love the most.
