Get Out of Your Comfort Zone

Although embarking on a career change or actively searching for a position can be a daunting and scary journey, switching gears might pay off in the long run. Job seekers who are willing to get out of their career comfort zones may find that the resulting job opportunities and successes are enhanced and much more fulfilling.

Job seekers who are unwilling to try new approaches and decide to remain invested in current career comfort zones run the risk of becoming obsolete in the job market, according to Forbes. Employees, employers and organizations that cling to the status quo may find themselves left behind.

Break down career comfort zones by exploring new behaviors, interview techniques and job-searching strategies, especially when changing careers. Create a personal brand that challenges you; job success is achieved by trying something new and innovative, but it's also about recognizing your weaknesses and working to correct them. For example, if you are apprehensive or fearful about public speaking, face your fears and establish your personal brand by volunteering to speak about your area of expertise at a local business or community event. Prepare yourself for career changes by enrolling in professional development workshops or college classes to brush up on new techniques and gain practice conquering the fears that have kept you in your career comfort zone.

Develop your professional network by attending conventions, conferences and local workshops to further develop your brand and step out of that comfort zone. The connections you make can advance your career, provide knowledge about opportunities and help you recognize the skills you need to sharpen to succeed within your desired industry. Even if it doesn't feel comfortable or natural, sell yourself and your new skills to others by completing tasks on time, arriving to work early, engaging in problem-solving sessions and showing you can be a team player with co-workers. Adopting new, productive work habits makes life easier and impresses onlookers, bettering your chances for advancement.

Job seekers who begin with making personal changes may find more success conquering the fear of doing something new in their professions. Seek out ways to change personal habits that provide too much comfort, and face your fears to prepare yourself for changes in your professional life. Instead of putting off tasks that appear to be too time-consuming or challenging, break them into small steps and push yourself to reach your goals.

Change your outlook when trying something new. Instead of focusing on what could go wrong with your job search or networking efforts, put more emphasis on the opportunities that are available to you with a new adventure or different mindset. Overcoming career comfort zones may be scary personally, but it can make or break your career.

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