[thumbnail]
In part one, we shared Francis Michaud, CGA and VP of Finance’s advice on the value of hard work and what it means to stand out in the right way. Now, he shares insights on work-life balance and the value of career planning.
Striking a Balance
Michaud echoes the work-life concerns of many busy managers, but emphasizes that maintaining a balance is possible especially if one is able to compartmentalize or block-off their efforts.
“When you’re at work, work. When you’re at home, focus on your family. When you have free time is when you fit in that extra work and workouts.”
Having a spouse or partner who understands the demands of your schedule and doing as much of your heavy career-lifting before starting a family are also important elements of striking and maintaining a work-life balance.
Career Planning, Development and Transition
The importance of 1, 3 and 5 year plans in helping to orient and direct career success cannot be overstated for most managers. In helping to develop these plans, Michaud encourages employees to find professional mentors.
“A professional mentor will have the experience to help you see things differently and to make better decisions as well as guide your career,” says Michaud. “You also need someone to challenge you to push yourself to succeed.”
A mentor will become particularly valuable when evaluating whether to make a change, transition, or to divert from your plans.
Let us know what you think! At Clarity Recruitment, we’re always interested in hearing from accounting and finance professionals like yourselves, who are ready for new, exciting opportunities that can take their careers to the next level. And be sure to follow us on Twitter (@clarityrecruits) and connect with us on LinkedIn and Facebook for more great tips and advice.
Michaud notes that if you “know what you want to get out of a job and organization, once you no longer get those things, it’s probably time to leave.”
It is during this time that having a resume that is tailored to the job you are applying for becomes crucial, including the development of field-specific skills or designations.
Michaud also encourages those transitioning to keep applying to firms of interest, even if they are outside of your expertise, “because some employers are looking for people outside the industry to bring a different light to routine problems.”
If you develop the foundational skills espoused by Michaud and make informed career decisions, you will be in a perfect position to become the type of employee who can provide those solutions.
Let us know what you think! At Clarity Recruitment, we’re always interested in hearing from accounting and finance professionals like yourselves, who are ready for new, exciting opportunities that can take their careers to the next level. And be sure to follow us on Twitter (@clarityrecruits) and connect with us on LinkedIn and Facebook for more great tips and advice.