Which role or sector should I try to move into to make my future Bullet Proof?
Graduate Engineers often ask me this question.
I think it’s a fair question to ask; however, if I was to put it into context, I had one Mechanical engineer ask me the above question in regards to Oil and Gas maintenance projects verse Roles in Asset management.
First, he was offered a promotion in one role and also a new role in Asset Management (AM)
So I asked him what he thought he would learn in the new role.
Of course, he didn’t know exactly.
We then checked it with growth industries and what asset management would look like in 10 years.
Frankly, it was hard work, but I think it is best not to overthink your career at first, but look to gain rich practical experiences that do not paint you into a corner, keep in mind this young mechanical engineer is quite talented, so instead of giving a direct answer…..
So I asked him, are you learning enough right now and is there a pipeline of projects coming up and is the management team keeping you aware of the projects?
He said yes, the work in good enough, and he was learning a great deal, so he decided to stay.
He was in a win-win situation, but moving means, you have to reestablish yourself, which is risky.
So the key is to be stable and focus on what you are learning, the grass is not always greener, and you have to establish your career before you take your next option.
Let me know your thoughts and if it helps you in any way.
All the best, Mark Healy, the Graduate Coach
