Explore

Exploring your options can be overwhelming, so it is important to have completed some analysis prior to starting your exploration. If you have read through the ‘Plan’ stage of this hub you will have a more focused idea about what and where to explore. There is a wealth of information available to help you explore what is out there but you will need to refine your actions in order to use your exploration time wisely. Start to create a diagram which captures the areas you might explore. You could use your goal/aim at the centre and build a picture of exploration around it. Some questions you might ask yourself are:

What sort of roles are you interested in? Have a look at job adverts, talk to colleagues in those roles, build your networks. Are you a member of a professional body? It is worth considering the professional networks and support they can provide access to. Once you have started your picture pick the top 2 that will be your initial ‘exploration’ focus.

Coaches and Mentors – You may find it beneficial to talk to a coach or mentor about your ideas, the Coaching and Mentoring > Exeter Professional information can guide and support you in this area.

Useful Resources and Organisations you might want to explore

National Careers Service- provides information about salaries, demand and qualifications for jobs as well as offering coaching advice and guidance.
University of Exeter Career Zone- staff aren’t able to access the whole site but there are still some great resources that we can tap into.
Terrified Of Twitter? – Twitter (X) can be a great tool for connecting with peers, developing your personal brand and finding solutions to workplace problems. But if you’re wondering where on earth to begin, here’s a handy guide to getting started.
Networking Skills: How to Get the Most from LinkedIn – Of the many professional networking sites available, LinkedIn is the biggest, with more than 80 million members worldwide. This article shows you how to get started on LinkedIn and offers some advice for getting the most from your online network.
Career Crossroads – This interactive self-assessment is designed to help you think through the long-term implications of changing career, and ensure that you are fully prepared for what lies ahead.

Because I knew what questions I wanted to ask I found I could use LinkedIn in a precise way and therefore attracted the right people to network with.

Grade G Manager

Career Planning Steps

Plan

Upskill

Take Action