How to Embrace Making Risky Career Moves

Businessmen change jobs. Find new business opportunities. change career. vector
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It’s normal to be hesitant about taking risky career moves, especially since (evolutionary speaking) human beings are naturally risk-averse. However, in order to be open to opportunities, Chris Smith wrote for Inside Higher Ed, people must embrace the unknown.

Smith cited “loss aversion bias” as one of the reasons people are afraid to step outside of their comfort zones. People tend to perceive losses as worse than gains, even if there is a low probability of failure. However, he wrote, people are missing out on important opportunities if they never take the plunge.

In order to make the most of risk-taking Smith advised the following:  

Make Connections 

In order to learn, humans must interact with others. “…weak ties with people whom we don’t even know well are vital in a successful job search,” wrote Smith.  

A great starting point when venturing out into uncharted territory is conducting informational interviews with professionals to learn about an industry of interest. Searching on LinkedIn with the Alumni Tool is a great way to get that ball rolling.  

Volunteer 

Even though it does not count as professional experience, volunteering is a great way to get a taste of the industry or field of interest. It also builds transferable career skills and teamwork.  

Experiential Learning  

Immersive experiences give individuals a chance to decide if a particular career path is worth pursuing. Job simulations, shadowing and internships are all examples of experiential learning.  

Smith said that starting out with informational interviews can help “narrow the scope” before diving into experiential learning.  

“Most of all, realize that in uncertainty often lies unexpected opportunity and discovery,” wrote Smith.  

Read more about how to get comfortable with the unknown at Inside Higher Ed.  

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Linda Raynier gave advice on how to change industries.


MCCC

Montgomery County Community College, the sponsor of MONTCO.Today’s Career Corner offers more than 100 associate’s degree and certificate programs at the college’s Blue Bell, Pottstown, The Culinary Arts Institute in Lansdale campuses, and online.

Funded by Montgomery County, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and student tuition, Montgomery County Community college offers a high-quality, affordable, accessible education that leads to relevant, rewarding transfer and career opportunities.

Take advantage of all the college has to offer — from challenging educational and professional development opportunities to stimulating activities and cultural programs. Its doors are always open.

Learn more about the college’s degrees and programs or plan an in-person visit to get a firsthand look at the college’s state-of-the-art facilities and friendly campus life. 

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