Dead end inc

Glenford Smith, Career Writer

Getting on the career fast track sounds like a great thing, doesn't it? It is, especially if you are on track to a career destination you're excited about.

But what if you're on the career fast track to nowhere? Or what if your career is not even on track at all? What if it's nothing but a dead-end job?

The defining characteristics of 'Dead End Inc' - a company where you are stuck in a dead end job - vary from person to person. Some persons have no prospects for getting promoted-ever.

The usual euphemistic way of expressing this is 'lack of opportunity for upward mobility.'

Others are just tired of doing the same old thing everyday, for years, but have no other skill or qualifications.

As a result, there's no way forward or upward as far as that job is concerned.

Here's one reader's request for advice:

QUESTION: "I'm getting up in age and would very much like to change my career path to something that I feel would be less stressful. I also desire something that could possibly present a better opportunity to earn, by widening the scope of places I could work.

"My problem is that I don't know where to start. I am reasonably qualified. My current job is very stressful. Something inside my head and heart is calling for less stress and more growth, success and wealth.

"But I feel crippled and limited by my financial situation. I'm living pay check to pay check with virtually no savings. What should I do?"

SMITH: For starters, start the savings habit. It's never too late to start over. As a friend once advised me unforgettably: "No matter how far you've gone down the wrong road, turn back!"

An unstable financial situation will keep you bound to a dead-end job as firmly as a convicted murderer in a maximum security prison. Having a financial cushion gives you more options.

Second, adopt a positive attitude. Express gratitude every day for the good fortune of having a job. Many people would jump for joy to have your job!

Honestly answer the question: Am I giving this job absolutely everything I've got? Am I going the extra mile to serve our customers, and to enhance my company's success?

When you've filled your present place, you'll find many opportunities to move on and move up without much effort on your part.

Finally, recognise and utilise your power to choose. The work world is changing dramatically. Past generations had little choice but to stay stuck in a dead-end job.

Now there exists an abundance of choice. Change your mindset and develop new skills demanded in the knowledge economy.

Ultimately, you choose whether to remain at Dead End Inc, or get smart and get on the career fast track.

Glenford Smith is a motivational speaker and personal achievement strategist.

glenfordsmith@yahoo.com