So you’d found a job that you love and decided to make a career out of it. Now it’s just about doing your time, impressing the right people and working your way up the proverbial ladder. But this may require taking some calculated risks to help you reach your goals. Often we are so focused on the potential negative repercussions that we don’t even consider how beneficial these moves can be for us in our professional lives. Fortunately, it’s never too late to pursue your goals, and experts would even recommend that you do take these risks to be able to make the most of your career. Here are the calculated risks you should – and shouldn’t –be taking in order to get ahead.
Risks to take
#1 JOIN A START-UP
Why? If you are new on the job market or looking for a change of scenery, joining a start-up could be a wise and potentially lucrative move. ‘Millennials live in an era of start-ups, entrepreneurial opportunities and side jobs,’ says Cape Town-based organisational psychologist Annie Oehley. ‘This is the norm for them and they tend to thrive on this lifestyle. They have also been raised in a time where immediate gratification is all-important and they are more inclined to take risks to meet this.’ This means that taking this type of opportunity could end up being more
satisfying than a regular nine-to-five. Just make sure you do thorough research first.
#2 FOLLOWING YOUR PASSION
Why? Pursuing something that you actually care about, rather than just spending the years feeling demotivated at your office job, can have a profound positive impact on your life. ‘Following your passion often involves taking on careers that are deemed to provide lower income or limited employment opportunities,’ says Annie. ‘But well-researched and informed decisions in this manner can be worthwhile for two reasons: Firstly, you might be very successful at what you do or, if it does not pan out, at least you have tried your best and have no regrets. You should, however, always have a plan B to fall back on.
#3 EXPANDING YOUR SKILL SET
Why? Often in the workplace, people can start to feel as though they are no longer learning and there is no room for growth. This presents a good opportunity to take a calculated risk. Making a move to keep your knowledge and skills up to date if your current position is showing no growth is often quite valuable,’ explains Annie. According to Gallup research conducted overseas, 32% of people leave their jobs because of a lack of career advancement or promotional opportunities. So if you feel as though you are stuck in a rut, it might be time for a change of scenery, or to pursue a different career path altogether.
Risks to avoid
#1 MOVING ABROAD
Why? Unless you are taking a planned gap year or have a legitimate job waiting for you across the pond, accepting job offers overseas should always be approached with caution. ‘Career moves to another country are very risky as they often involve uprooting your whole family at an enormous financial cost,’ says Annie. If planned carefully, however, the
international exposure can offer great opportunities. It’s about weighing up the pros and cons, and taking all those who will be affected into consideration.
#2 MAKING EMOTIONAL MOVES
Why? While many people will quote the old adage ‘follow your heart’, this is the opposite of what you should be doing in order to get ahead in the job world. ‘Do not take a risky career move based on emotions only,’ advises Annie. ‘Quitting hastily without a plan, a financial break-even assessment or solid understanding of what you are taking often leads to failure.’ Instead, sleep on it for a bit, speak to people who know your skill set as well as people currently in the
industry you wish to enter, so that you can make a more informed decision.
#3 NOT GETTING THE FAMILY GO-AHEAD
Why? As we know, when you have a family, life isn’t just about you anymore. This means that you should discuss any moves you wish to make with them beforehand and have them on your side. ‘In my experience, making a risky career move against the wishes of your partner is usually relationship suicide,’ says Annie. ‘Having the support of your family through this stressful and emotional time is very valuable.’ And not only is it valuable, but necessary, as any changes are bound to affect them as well. Keep them in the loop.
Words: Ruby Meyers | Photography: Pexels
