Career Crash to Inspirational Move

Career Crash to Inspirational Move

Feeling stuck in your career? Like you've hit a wall in this tough job market? Believe me, I get it. Wellington's job scene in 2024 has been nothing short of brutal. The government's restructuring and shifting priorities have created one of the most challenging environments I've seen in years.


But don't lose heart! This challenging time holds the potential for amazing new beginnings.


A change in circumstance, however unwelcome it may seem at first, can be the catalyst for remarkable and positive change.


This is true for your career just as it is in life.


Let me share my own story as evidence that what you initially think is a career disaster can be the U-turn that creates unexpected and fulfilling career journeys. And yes, I know what you might be thinking – "He's just a recruiter, what does he know?" Well, let me tell you...


My career started way back in the 80s. Fresh out of high school, baby-faced and eager, I landed a cadetship with Deloitte (part of the "Big 8" back then!). In six years, I was supposed to be an accountant.


But here's the thing: I was a terrible accountant. A country boy lost in the big city, I was, shall we say, a little distracted.


Despite my struggles, I finished my degree. But the Institute of Chartered Accountants' infamous PY exams proved to be my downfall. I failed the tax module (yet another reason not to like tax!), and after a fateful meeting with HR, I resigned.


A failed accountant at 23. What was I to do? My career was over. This was a disaster!


Then, I stumbled upon an advertisement titled "Frustrated Accountant." Frustrated? That was me, at least 50%! Intrigued, I sent off my CV (yes, it was that long ago!). I landed an interview and discovered the opportunity was for a recruitment consultant.


And I never looked back. Now, I'm chair of the people2people recruitment group.



So, what did I learn from my unexpected career U-turn?

  1. Understanding your own strengths is critical to your career success. Exploit your strengths and stop trying to fix your weaknesses. We all have unique talents. Identify yours and find a role that allows you to use them.
  2. Career horizons are often limited by your own experience and personal network. There are jobs today that didn't exist 10 years ago. Think about the explosion of roles in renewable energy, data science, and even the evolving world of AI. These are fields ripe with opportunity in New Zealand right now! Step outside your comfort zone, attend industry events, and connect with people in these exciting areas.
  3. I was lucky to have my career change while relatively young. Although age is not a barrier, your financial circumstances may be. Your salary reflects the type of work you do and not a valuation of you as a person. So understand that career exploration requires flexibility on your remuneration expectations. (And who knows, you might end up earning more than you ever imagined, like I did!)
  4. See the change as an opportunity to explore, not a disaster. New futures, new experiences, and unknown career opportunities await. Embrace the uncertainty and see where it leads you.
  5. A job is just that, a job. It's not your life. If, in your explorations of new careers, you don't like what you are doing, then change it. You don't have to wait. Keep exploring.
  6. Once you find something that you love doing, then stick with it. The grass is not always greener, and it's my experience that those who do what they love are rewarded both financially and spiritually.


Careers are dynamic, full of twists and turns. Embrace the change, see the possibilities, and remember that amazing opportunities can emerge from unexpected setbacks. Ready to take the next step?

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Mark Smith • October 21, 2024

Find out more by contacting one of our specialisat recruitment consultants across Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

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