How To Master Changing Careers: Brainwriting Strategies For Success

Cheryl Robinson, Forbes Viewed 577 Times Viewed by 347 People

Changing careers can seem like the answer to your current problem of feeling stagnant. Zippia reported that the average American worker has 12 jobs throughout a lifetime, and 65% of American workers are actively searching for a new full-time job right now. Surprisingly, individuals working in the private sector tend to change careers more frequently than individuals working in the public sector.

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Embarking on this new journey takes planning, researching and taking risks. Brainwriting is a powerful yet underutilized technique in this process; it’s an innovative approach that harnesses creativity. This concept is a valuable tool for individuals navigating career pivots, offering fresh perspectives and unlocking new opportunities.

Brainwriting, a collaborative ideation practice, was initially designed to transform how teams generate ideas and solve problems within organizations. This technique takes a silent and written approach, unlike traditional brainstorming, where ideas are verbally shared in a group setting. This innovative method offers a structured and inclusive environment, enabling diverse perspectives to flourish. The advantages of brainwriting are manifold. It fosters inclusivity, ensuring that every team member has an equal opportunity to contribute regardless of their communication style. The systematic nature of brainwriting provides structure to the ideation process, making it easier to manage and analyze the generated ideas.

Although it was designed as a group activity, individuals can use it to figure out their career pivot by exploring new possibilities, identifying strengths and developing a robust strategy.

The 6-3-5 Brainwriting Concept

Initially developed in the late 1960s by Bernd Rohrbach, a German marketer, it guides a small group through several rounds of communal creativity and refinement. Six people identify a problem statement, and each participant then writes this statement at the top of a rubric. Then, they generate three ideas in five minutes. Six people, three ideas each, in five minutes: 6-3-5 concept.

A 6-3-5 form for individuals to fill out while strategizing a career change. 
CREATIVE RENEGADE MEDIA

For individuals, clearly articulate the specific challenge or question related to your career strategy that you want to address. Draw out a diagram with six columns and three rows. In each column, write down a new position or industry that excites you. Then, in each row, write down a top skillset you will need to thrive in that position or industry. Give yourself no more than five minutes for each column—this prevents you from overthinking or talking yourself out of a particular position due to imposter syndrome.

The second 6-3-5 form for individuals to fill out while strategizing a career change. CREATIVE RENEGADE MEDIA

Narrow The Selection Down

As you pivot in your career, although learning new skills is possible, aligning your next move with a skill set you have already developed is essential; this will save you time as you advance. After you have created and completed the first section of the 6-3-5 flow chart, duplicate the skeleton chart to narrow down your choices.

First, of the initial six choices, pick your top three positions or industries you would like to transition into and write them down in the three rows (you are switching up the column and row topics). Next, instead of listing your skill sets that accompany that position, write down any pros or cons. More research may be required to focus on your particular direction from here.

Practice Voluntary Simplicity

The theory encourages individuals to live intentionally, emphasizing quality over quantity and purpose over excess. It calls for a deep understanding of professional skills and the alignment of these elements with potential career paths.

Part of voluntary simplicity is blocking out the white noise or unsolicited advice from others. This requires intentional strategies to maintain focus and preserve mental well-being.

1. Develop confidence in your judgment and decision-making abilities. Trust your instincts and prioritize your understanding of your situation.
   
   
2. Set clear boundaries with others; communicate when you appreciate their concern but need space to make your own decisions.
   
   
3. Practice selective listening by tuning in only to relevant advice or from trusted sources. Filter out unsolicited input that doesn’t contribute positively to your goals.
   
   
4. Develop the skill of politely declining unsolicited advice. A simple “Thank you for your input, but I’m handling this in my way” can communicate your need for autonomy.
   
   
5. Take the time to educate others about your journey, goals and decision-making process. This can help them understand your perspective and reduce the likelihood of unwanted guidance.
   
   
6. Stay informed about relevant information, but be discerning about the sources you engage with.
   
   
7. Practice turning your focus inward. Reflect on your goals, values and aspirations rather than constantly seeking external validation or input.

By incorporating these strategies into your daily life, you can effectively block out white noise and unsolicited advice, allowing you to stay focused on your goals and maintain a sense of control over your personal and professional journey.

 

Originally Published On: https://www.forbes.com/sites/cherylrobinson/2024/01/29/how-to-master-changing-careers-brainwriting-strategies-for-success/

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