Follow these 3 steps in the next 14 days to make that pivot.

The previous two weeks of my life were spent traveling for work related projects. So much of my professional circle is still dominated by educational technology professionals, even though my clients tend to be small business owners, coaches and consultants. When those coaches and consultants look for a simple way to scale their services with a digital course they can sell, they come to me. I LOVE that work, especially helping to remove a little overwhelm when it comes to navigating the tech. I get to stretch some creative muscles and be of service simultaneously. I get to take that stress away from them and just allow them to dictate a dreamy vision and bring it to life. 

However lately, more and more of you are asking questions about how to get started in the work. You might be a burned out educator looking for a path into something new. You might be a midlife corporate career chaser who is ready to level up. When you ask me for advice, rest assured that I am listening, honey! I’ve got you. My specialty is breaking down the complex technical talk into easily digestible bites we can either do together, or I can do for you. So allow me to give you some quick tips if you are that midlife educator or corporate cutie looking to pivot careerwise. 

#1: Dust off that LinkedIn account you’ve been too intimidated to use. Don’t do like so many other people that wait until they are looking for a job before they log onto the platform. Yes, it is a powerful place to network because corporate recruiters live there. Why wait until then? There are professional connections you could be nurturing right now while you figure out what you want to do. 

#2: While you are on LinkedIn, you also need to browse the job postings and what skills they require. Then do an inventory of your own skill set and start matching up what would be a good fit for you. Are you finding some cool job options, but need a little boost in the skills department? Then opt for the premium LinkedIn membership so you can take advantage of the massive library of elearning courses it offers. Upon completing some elearning courses, be sure to add those completion certificates to your LinkedIn profile so it can be publicly known you are actively upskilling yourself. 

#3: Start engaging with your connections. This is where the magic happens, with regular old fashioned human-to-human connections. What did you learn in those elearning courses? What industry knowledge do you already possess? Post some thoughtful insights and share that knowledge with your online peers. You have something worth saying and others will notice. When they post a career or business win, congratulate them. When they are seeking assistance you can offer, jump in with your expertise. Don’t be shy. It pays off in dividends very quickly. There is an almighty algorithm on LinkedIn that prioritizes everyday person-to-person conversations over all other content. Your profile will be elevated as a result and get noticed by the people who can offer your next opportunity. 

Think this is all a bunch of overhyped B.S.? I challenge you to follow these three steps over the next 14-days and report back. Dedicate no more than one-hour per day to following through on the eLearning and the online engaging. At the bare minimum, you will break out of your shell and see what is out there for you. But if my tips prove to be beneficial for you, report back and let me know. Post on social media (LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook) and tag me @akilahwillery and @upskillservices. Use the hashtag #Akilahupskilledme and tell your story. Let us in on your journey so we can cheer you on and celebrate each win. You have everything to gain, so don’t wait one more day.