As you search for your next accounting job, you can set your direction for either success or failure. It might seem obvious that you would choose the former, but make sure you avoid paths that may ultimately lead to career unhappiness. They may not be that easy to spot at first.

Avoid these surefire traps that could land you in a job that’s wrong for you:

You’re good at it, but not passionate about it.

You may have the mindset that “This is the only thing I’m really good at, so I have to take this job.” This is an especially common misconception among mid-level employees who have mastered a specific skillset over time. But remember that you, too, have evolved. Your interests may no longer align with those skills.

• It’s never too late to make a change. Don’t dedicate yourself to something just because you have the ability to do it. You deserve better. Find – and pursue – your passion. Research educational and other options. Consider working with a recruiter or career coach to help you set your career GPS toward the right destination.

You’re in it just for the money.

Money alone is not enough to keep you happy in your career over the long run. Find an alternative that offers true satisfaction.

• If necessary, stay at your current job and build your finances while exploring other options. Don’t act rashly. Rather, develop a plan and take a thoughtful approach to implementing it. At the same time, set realistic deadlines. By adhering to your time frame, you will stay on point for achieving success.

You’re afraid of the unknown.

Fear is the number one reason people take on jobs that they don’t enjoy. Be honest with yourself. If you don’t confront your feat about pursing a different career direction, you’ll never know what might have been.

Avoid Being Miserable by Charting Your Own Course

Rather than getting stuck in these traps:

• Take an objective look at where you are now and where you want to be in five, 10 and 20 years. Then, work backwards from your goal to the first steps you must take on this journey. Think about that old cliché: If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.
• Invest in skill development. Identify the skills you will need for your targeted job and do what it takes to master them. Your options will broaden and your sense of security and confidence will increase.

CPS Recruitment^® is a recognized leader in matching accounting professionals with the right career opportunities in the Central New York market and beyond. Read our related posts or contact us today to discuss how we can help you land a job you’ll love.