Whatever you are pursuing, keep your eyes open for possibilities because you never know what might be right in front of you if you get a little creative. Many businesses have historically had remote roles, like sales people, auditors, consultants. Those jobs were more prevalent than is obvious, but now it’s becoming more popular. With internet access, many administrative jobs can be done from anywhere.
I had been so focused on IT jobs that I failed to look into an opening posted on our company job portal. I was talking to my boss who encouraged me to dig a little deeper into a job in the Safety & Environment department. Although the posting specified 10% travel, further inquiry revealed that in fact, there was none and that this role could be done from anywhere with a high-speed internet connection, which these days means pretty much anywhere. I found out about the job Thursday, interviewed Friday and was offered the job on Monday. 5 months of seeking location independence solved in 5 days.
They say “All progress takes place outside of your comfort zone.” This entire process has been outside of my comfort zone, but it’s been an exciting challenge. I know it sounds like it was easy and just fell into my lap, but I have worked persistently with location independence in mind. Putting our goal out there, reading, talking to people, stating my intentions to my managers, coworkers, friends and family, developing my resume, analyzing laws, studying French and then Portuguese, renewing my passport, paring down our belongings, creating a budget, this blog you’re reading… all of these things contributed toward our being ready for this opportunity. Nothing is as calming as preparation.
The last three weeks have been a hundred percent Safety & Environment. Although the company for which I work has always preached Safety First, the world is a slightly more dangerous color when your job is safety. But don’t let the road scare you. There’s too much to see and too many people to experience.
It worked
for me, maybe it’ll work for you:
Tips for realizing opportunities:
-Look at your company’s job boards. Don’t confine yourself to what you already
do.
-If something looks promising but maybe not perfect, it never hurts to ask
questions. Even if it doesn’t pan out, it’s a good way to make contacts and
spread the word that you’re looking.
-Be honest with your manager. The good ones want to help you grow.
-A little off topic: Send a note of gratitude when somebody helps you succeed. This
allows people to become invested in your success.