The Importance of Re-invention

The world is constantly changing and it is only moving faster. However, for many, the need to accept and respond to change can be difficult.

Case in point: I recently advised a senior manager at a global investment bank. After months of deterioration, he finally accepted the truth, deciding to “be nice and let them pay me for three years rather than a larger package.” Despite his ‘generosity,’ he was fired, receiving a far smaller severance arrangement. As this allegory demonstrates, how one recognizes change and responds to it effectively can be the difference between success and failure.

In this series of articles on career development and job searching, we will begin to provide ideas for meeting this challenge head-on.

To start, one must approach change through ongoing self-assessment and re-invention. To win in business, successful firms constantly look for ways to improve, gain efficiency and develop new product ideas. Businesses that don’t lead end up losing. Think of Microsoft: once viewed as the epitome of cutting edge, its inability to effectively execute on changing conditions results in a firm that relies on a deteriorating monopoly and a constant chase of Google. Similarly with a career, to compete one must constantly look for ways to evolve and get the most out of the most limited resource of all -- yourself.

Thinking about oneself in new ways can be scary. To overcome this it is best to approach it in three steps; recognize your tools, invest in your goals, and execute. In life one is constantly cultivating existing skills and developing new ones. The key is to identify them and illustrate how they contributed to your success. One way of doing this is setting time on a regular basis to think about what you are doing and what skills you are using to succeed.

For example, if you are working on a global project perhaps you are developing international interpersonal skills and global project management skills. If you are unemployed, recognize your job search as a means for expanding your skills as a marketer and salesperson. Take credit for your skills, in the format of skill “x” was used on project “y.”

Outline your goals and revisit them periodically. Studies have shown that people who clearly articulate their goals are more likely to achieve them. Why not give it a shot? Write out realistic goals and what you have and lack for achieving them. This will help you focus and approach new situations with an open mind.

Your identified skills and investment in developing them will make you organized and confident to execute. What if it’s too late? First, recognize it is never too late. Try identifying skills from previous jobs or experience, using the exercise above. Not working? Try enlisting the help of a career coach. This person can help you identify these skills and how to market them effectively. Remember, it is your responsibility to invest in your career. The less you invest, the lower the return.

By stopping to think about where you stand and where you want to be and executing against it, you will take an important first step that instantly separates you from the pack. Remember, you are the CEO of “YOU, INC.” and so it is your responsibility to follow through. These steps take a minute and can be done anywhere. In the time spent thinking you have no time, you could have done it.

One of my favorite comments on this topic came from an interview with a managing director at a global bank. When I asked what made him successful, the manager spoke of re-invention. “Even at my age I am constantly reinventing myself and what my team does. Every year this changes. Like this, I stay ahead and position us well for success.”

Nathan Gampel is the owner of Gampel and Associates, specialists in professional career counseling, job search strategies and organization development in varied professions. To send comments, questions, or to schedule an appointment, contact him at: mngamp@hotmail.com.