Q: Hello Jill! I am interested in getting out of my current J-O-B and actually finding something that intrigues me! I don’t necessarily want to go back to school or incur OSAP bills either.
Instead, I’m hoping there are some creative ways that I might be able to simply get started: Learning the skills (some of which I already have i.e. I’m a great chef) I’ll need, developing a plan and moving forward. I really want to be self-employed, Jill, so I can use my talents to help others. Here are some of the professions I’m really interested in (in order of preference): 1. Owning a job agency 2. Private Home Dinner Party Coordinator, 3. Event Planner 4. Professional Organizer. I’d really be grateful any tips you could offer me. Thank you so much for your help we all appreciate you. Way to go too on your recent award acceptance!
A:
And I’ve got a great resource for you — the Fab Job Dream Careers How To Quickly Break Into A Fab Job Guide (2006) by Tag and Catherine Goulet, creators of www.fabjob.com.
Fab Job has published more than 75 Fab Job guides (books, e-books and CDs) offering expert advice on how to break into the career(s) of your dreams. (I actually contributed to the guide myself as a researcher and writer on the topic of becoming a fashion stylist.)
In this guide, which features the ins and outs to over 100 dream careers, you’ll also find first hand experience on how to start your own business. Their information on career management is among the most comprehensive I’ve seen thus far, in that it comes complete with resources, contacts, goal setting aids and a long list of career assessment links to help you weigh your skills set to select the best possible match.
In Fab Job guide, you’ll also find tips on how to pitch yourself for new, more exciting responsibilities at your current job to at least save your sanity while working on establishing your real passions.
You might consider interning or an apprenticeship within any of the industries you’ve mentioned as a great way to begin establishing a professional connection.
For many professions (i.e. a professional organizer or event planner, two of the options you mentioned) I’d recommend you simply just go out and try it! Try planning a friend’s upcoming event (or shadowing the person who is), coordinating a local fundraiser to assist a charity or non-profit close to your heart, or cleaning/organizing the home of a colleague. And don’t forget to get references or testimonials! That will mark the beginning of your client base, and your portfolio. Finding information online on how to start a small business is pretty self-explanatory via the Internet but I’d recommend your first stop to be your home bank. Team up with an advisor and definitely a mentor in the industry you choose to help you make your dream a reality. Check out:
Good luck!
Jill Andrew — CYW, BA, BA (Hons.), BEd. Please include your full name, address and telephone number when e-mailing. All letters are subject to publication.
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