Men ‘should play to natural strengths’
Men looking to further their careers should consider what they want from their jobs and ensure they keep abreast of workplace changes, industry insiders say.
Psychologist and Careers Coach Darryl Cross recommends men think about which careers play to their natural strengths, as this will improve their employability and the enjoyment of their work.
“You need to ask yourself: Who am I? What do I want in my career? What are my strengths? Where do I want to go?” Dr Cross says.
However, he says men should also be prepared to “zig-zag to their destination”, taking advantage of opportunities while never losing sight of what they ultimately want to achieve.
Phil Morton from recruitment agency Morton Philips agrees men will do better if they are alert to change. He recommends they take note of developments in their industry and consider carefully where they fit in. In particular, he says they should be alert to changing skill-sets and ensure they receive the latest training.
“Don’t become a dinosaur: look for ways of adding value,” Mr Morton says.
“Try to get to the stage where your company can’t dispense with you because you’re too valuable.”
For men unlucky enough to be made redundant or just looking for a change, other industries may be crying out for your skills.
For example, Mr Morton says there are growing opportunities in the aged-care sector, and he has seen manufacturing workers successfully become service providers.
Chris Heddles, 35, worked as an Air Force engineer for 10 years.
Last year, Mr Heddles took advantage of paid long-service leave and completed a Graduate Diploma in Education.
He is now teaching full-time at the Australian Science and Mathematics School.
Mr Heddles recommends men looking to change career find out as much as they can about their new field to avoid nasty surprises.
For men thinking of becoming fathers, some large corporations are providing split parental leave that can be transferred or postponed.
Likewise, for older workers, a number of larger businesses offer greater flexibility through a rotating workforce or by involving senior workers as mentors.
According to the Chief Executive of COTA Seniors Voice, Ian Yates, recent changes to pension regulations, along with existing superannuation rules, mean it’s also possible to work part-time while accessing these.
Nevertheless, he recommends men plan appropriately for retirement.
“With people living longer, they do need to get some good advice on how much money is required,” he says.
