K: Project Manager to Outward Bound instructor
Situation:
K was in a role she didn’t like: Project Manager for a non-profit organization. Although she was very interested in helping others, she hated being tied to a cubicle and not being physically active throughout the day. She wanted a role with a greater sense of adventure, as well as more direct interaction with people.
The Challenge:
When she came in to TurningPoint, she knew she didn’t want to continue in her current role but did not know what she wanted to do next.
Our Approach:
K worked through the Career Makeover process to determine the kind of activities and work environment that suited her best. Through the process, she decided she wanted to pursue hands-on educational activities, working directly with communities of teens. In addition, she wanted to incorporate more physical activity and outdoor involvement in her work. We helped her develop a list of target organizations that suited her interests, and coached her through the networking process of contacting those organizations.
The Result:
K accepted two positions- one, a part-time Outward Bound Instructor, which gave her both hands-on interaction and outdoor involvement, and also the Assistant Director of a YMCA program. She was extremely happy to leave her cubicle behind her!
L: Venture Capital Firm Administrator to Financial Analyst
Situation:
L worked in administration at a well-known venture capital firm. She wanted to break into the field of accounting and finance, and she had a bachelor’s degree in finance but no related work experience.
The Challenge:
She came to us asking if she should spend money on an MBA program, thinking she wouldn’t be able to gain a finance position without an advanced degree.
Our Approach:
We asked L. to carefully define the kinds of activities and work environments she liked. We taught her how to express those interests in a series of informational interviews and networking meetings. We also advised her to look for companies that would pay for a part-time MBA so she would not have to pay for it herself.
The Result:
L had multiple positions to choose from, and landed a finance position at a major company that was her top choice. The company offered her great
career opportunity and a 100% tuition payment plan so she can now get her MBA for free.
