What’s a Free Agent and How Can I Become One?
Lately I’ve been writing about the SCIENCE behind change, change that we desire and change that lasts. I’m going to continue that series but decided to take a mini break and write about careers and more specifically career change.
I’m not sure where you stand on the topic but let’s face it, often conversation starters, start with “What do you do?” “How long have you been doing that?” “Where did you go to school?” And so, it goes … and goes and goes….
Much of our career, chosen profession, education and choices are tied into the DNA of our identity. It’s natural we spend much of our lives making ourselves be someone and sometimes “You Version 1.0” doesn’t work out. We either need a refurb or a complete overhaul. We’re not lazy or not committed. We’re curious, want to learn, have lots to offer and so much more. It’s no longer shunned upon to climb a career ladder or have a history of multiple jobs. In fact, more people scratch their heads trying to figure out how or why someone stays with a company for a lifetime.
I am in no way diminishing a lifetime commitment to a single employer, that is an individual choice. But I do think it’s important to view and create ourselves as independent agents. I did not create this term. I recently interviewed Dana Gower, author or Careering, How to Find and Maintain Meaningful Work in Today’s Economy and Dana has much to say about being your own agent. While the show will not air until September, I’d like to share some of his expertise:
Picture Credit: Olilynch – Pixabay
You are Your Own Agent
“Modern day career management and job search applies to all ages.” Careering, Dana and his co-author, Venard Paul Dean, write about moving away from the old employee model to a free agent mindset. You Inc. first came up with this “Free Agent” mindset and the key messaging is – “We should treat ourselves and our careers as a business.”
I could not agree more. I’ve personally worked in non-profits, startups and Corporate America. While each offered a different flavor, none defined me, but each influenced me. Each role added to my expertise. Each time, I grew as an individual and as a leader, and each stepping- stone, lead me to another path. Why didn’t I stay at the same job?
I have resigned because there was no longer upward mobility. The company was great, but I wasn’t a fan of the cap. Someone else was determining my value. So even before I knew about the “free agent” thing, I headed in that direction.
I was laid off in 2009 and went through an acquisition in 2016. Both decisions out of my control. And 2020 hasn’t left many of us in the pilot seat. We’ve all been vulnerable, especially small business owners. I am no different than many of you, but I do know that as a “free agent” someone else’s decision doesn’t decide my destiny. That’s liberating and scary.
Picture Credit: Pixource- Pixabay
What Road Will You Take?
How do you transition to a free agent mindset? What tips and tricks do experts share? Stay tuned for Dana’s show to find out more, but while you’re waiting, I’ll give you a sneak peek into his insights:
- “Free agent thinking prepares us for inevitable transitions.”
- “Emotional insecurity is likely high when we ride the job search roller coaster.”
- “If Boomers or anyone is in the market for a new job, keep up to date!”
Free Agent Tips: Keys to Success
- Self- marketing and branding.
- Life- long learning.
- Relationship building, networking, volunteering.
- Maintain market awareness.
Picture Credit: Geralt – Pixabay
I thank you for waiting patiently for Boom Baby Boom’s shows. Stay tuned for face to face interviews from experts like Dana who will help you turn your Bust into your Boom one episode at a time!
In the meantime, I’m working on a course and would love market feedback about a quiz and the benefits of a Merger course. If you are open to change and thinking about merging your past selves into a new You Version 2.0 then you might be interested in taking my “You Might Be a Merger If” Quiz. If so, pop over to my website and contact me. Put the word “Merger” in the subject line. Normally, I would simply hyperlink the 7-question quiz, but this time I need to get market feedback in exchange for a few freebies. Don’t be shy! I would welcome your insight! And remember, career change is possible at any age. You are not limited! You simply need a roadmap for your MERGE.
Until next time, thank you for waiting patiently for my show, BOOM BABY BOOM. We plan to launch in September and stay tuned because we specialize in helping you turn your Bust into your Boom!
About the Author:
Kimberly Sheldahl is a former executive, turned Kolbe Certified™ Consultant who is also a Wellness Coach. She is passionate about the integration of productivity and well-being. Kim is the host of BOOM Baby BOOM, a T.V. show/podcast which will begin airing on Transformation TV in September.
Kim is the #1 Best Selling Author of Hack Into OZ, Get the Most Out of Life, available on Amazon. Her course, IMPACT will also be released this summer along with an introductory Maximize your Merge course.
IMPACT’s modules include science backed data on building happiness, self-belief (efficacy), self-control (regulation), building habits, and staying motivated. While she’s building her pre-order page, let her know if you are interested in either course. Contact Kim @ Kintsugi Life.Biz and type “Merger” in the subject line to receive freebies and additional assessments. In the meantime, Connect & Follow Kim on:
Facebook – Kintsugi Life Connections
Instagram – Kim_Kintsugi
Linked In – Personal Linked In & Business Page
Pinterest – Kintsugi Life.Biz