Traditional career paths are nearing extinction due to a
highly competitive global marketplace. Instead, forging your own path and
designing –as well as marketing—your skillset is essential. To be an innovator
or game changer within your field, you have to aim towards generating your own
opportunities. In this case, those with an entrepreneurial mindset will thrive.
Expand your understanding of funding, marketing, sales, and professional
development; it will allow you to pitch ideas, write proposals, make savvy
financial decisions, and strategically market yourself and your skills. This
knowledge is particularly relevant for those with broad or general degrees such
as liberal arts and fine arts who will enter a highly competitive industry with
non-traditional career paths.
Be an innovator in your field by staying abreast of ways to
gain experience or exposure, and develop new ways of reaching your target
audience.
- STAND OUT. Use social media platforms such as YouTube and SoundCloud to gain recognition, exposure, and experience. Create your own e-portfolio and/or website to showcase your skills.
- NETWORK. Build and maintain relationships with professionals in your field through events, professional organizations, social groups, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
- OUTSMART. Invest your energy on startups, apps, and innovative ideas. Be creative!
- SPECIALIZE. Gain experience within your field by selling your services and skills through websites such as Fiverr or Distilled.
- DREAM BIG. Reach your full potential by seeking support from others to fuel your ideas. Crowdfunding websites such as Kickstarter allow you to garner donations and investments towards your projects.
Skills such as strategic thinking, creativity, and
adaptability will be essential to succeed in such an open market. Game changer,
leave your mark in your field!
