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When did your job become your career?
I feel that jobs are just building your knowledge and making money. Careers are a bit harder to come by and keep. Did the job become a career or were you invested from the beginning. #Spring25
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4 answers
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Nicolas’s Answer
For a long time, I just went from job to job without really taking the time to realize what I was passionate about and what I was passionate about was the same thing I was passionate about as a kid. I love creative writing. I love coming up with an idea and seeing it out in the world. So at 37, I finally pursued it and now I am living my best life. My advice is to take note on what you like doing now. The things you like now are probably the same things you will like later in life. Trust what you like. Trust your gut. And while you are pursuing this career, take on jobs to support you along the way.
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Patrick’s Answer
A job is most always just a stepping stone to a "career" -- my story is one in Supply Chain Management. My first several "jobs" were in the competency area of "warehouse/DC operations." I learned much about dealing with people, following leaders, and technical details of operations through very 'hands on' experiences that did not come along with my degree work in the career field. Most careers begin like this across many fields. Your education only gets you 'so far' in terms of building competency and expertise in any area. The first 10 years will determine how you 'build' a career. What are your first moves? How did they happen? Were they initiated by you? Was is a good idea or due to lack of patience? These are all learnings that you will need to experience as you build a career. After 5-10 years on those initial roles, if you have been working hard and truly learning, you will begin to 'chart' your career. As you grow and move and take on 'outside work' dynamics in your life, you will be faced with decisions that include many more variables: spouse/partner, children, aging parents, friends, faith centers, social networks, and other elements that drive the decision making in your career. Things that are beyond the company, compensation, intellectual challenge, contribution level, leadership, and other items which are very job/career focused. Overall, ponder these things early. One must remember how 'young' you are today...it will wisp away. Adopt patience and prudence as virtues to guide career development. If you build a solid foundation, you will find that your career comes to you. If you are chasing dreams or following your passions...my experience is you will find yourself with momentary pleasures but not grasping the rewards of thoughtful and deliberate career development.
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Frances’s Answer
When I first applied for my job and got it, it felt like just a job. But within two years, I was promoted to Engineer, and that’s when my job blossomed into a career. I've been with Verizon for 38 years now, and I’m incredibly grateful for everything I've achieved. Along the way, I've made lifelong friends and found amazing mentors. You might be surprised at how quickly a job can grow into a fulfilling career. Remember, if you love what you do, it won't feel like work at all.
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Chin Lee’s Answer
When you step into the job world, it's crucial to pursue something you're passionate about. I earned a degree in Computer Science because I loved playing computer games as a kid. However, playing games and working in the IT industry are quite different. I excelled as a database administrator in my first job and discovered my love for working with data. I stayed with the Data Management team for over 12 years, even as friends and colleagues moved from job to job. Besides my work, I'm passionate about sports and volunteering, and I've played an active role in shaping my company's culture. Recently, I transitioned to a full-time role in CSR (corporate social responsibility) and employee engagement, doing what I truly love. Remember, interests and passions can evolve over time. The key is to stay aware of them and adjust your career path as needed. Good luck, and all the best!