Shift Happens when you change careers.

One of my clients was informed that his job was being eliminated due to a merger. He is now thinking about pivoting his subsequent career. Decisions. I just wanted to let you know that I asked for some help. Here is the unedited output from my AI. Remember my critical focus when using AI: TRUST BUT VERIFY. As you read this AI insight, it can be applied to other inquiries about how to use AI tools for your business or organization and personal implementation. Change the focus on personal information and shift it to your product or service.

Option 1: The Broad & Exploratory Prompt (Good for initial discovery)

“Let’s start by understanding what you’re looking for in your next role. I want to get a clear picture of your ideal career path. Let’s explore these areas:

• What are you most passionate about in your work? (Don’t just think about your current job – what truly excites you?)

• What are the top 3-5 skills at which you excel? (Be specific – ‘communication’ is good, but ‘delivering complex technical information to non-technical audiences’ is better.)

• What kind of company culture are you looking for? (e.g., fast-paced startup, established corporation, collaborative team, independent work)

• What’s your ideal work-life balance? (e.g., flexible hours, remote work, specific travel expectations)

• What’s your salary expectation range? (Be realistic based on your experience and research)

• What are you not willing to do in a new role? (This is just as important as what you are willing to do!)

Let’s brainstorm potential job titles, industries, and companies that align with these answers. We’ll then start to build a targeted job search strategy.”

Option 2: The Focused & Action-Oriented Prompt (Good for someone with a clearer idea)

“Okay, let’s focus on getting you closer to a new role. Let’s break this down into actionable steps:

1. Target Roles: Based on our previous conversations, let’s identify 3-5 specific job titles you want to pursue. Let’s research the typical responsibilities, required skills, and salary ranges for each. (Can you share links to job descriptions you’ve found interesting?)

2. Skills Gap Analysis: For each target role, identify any skills you might need to develop or strengthen. What training or certifications could help you bridge those gaps?

3. Networking: Who do you know (or could you connect with) who works in these fields or at companies you’re interested in? Let’s create a plan for reaching out and building connections.

4. Resume & LinkedIn Optimization: Review your resume and LinkedIn profile to ensure they effectively showcase your skills and experience for these target roles. (Do you have a current version you can share?)

5. Job Boards & Company Research: Let’s identify the best job boards and companies to target, and create a schedule for applying to roles.

First, let’s prioritize [mention a specific task, e.g., updating your LinkedIn headline].”

Option 3: The Reflective & Career-Journey Prompt (Good for someone feeling stuck or unsure)

“Let’s take a step back and reflect on your career journey. I want to help you identify what’s working, what’s not, and where you want to go next.

• What are you most proud of accomplishing in your career so far? (Let’s celebrate your successes!)

• What aspects of your current or past roles have you disliked? (Understanding what you don’t want is just as important.)

• What would it be if you could wave a magic wand and have any job? (Let’s dream a little!)

• What are your core values when it comes to work? (e.g., creativity, impact, stability, learning)

• What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to learn or try in your career?

Once we better understand your values, passions, and what you’re looking for, we can explore potential career paths and identify the steps you need to take to get there.”

Important Notes for You (as the Client):

• Customize: These are templates. Tailor the questions and prompts to your client’s specific situation, experience, and goals.

• Listen Actively: The most important part is listening to your client’s responses and asking follow-up questions.

• Be Supportive: Job searching can be challenging. Offer encouragement and support throughout the process.

• Ask for Examples: Ask for specific examples to illustrate your client’s skills and experience. (“Can you tell me about a time you had to…?”)

To help me refine the prompt even further, could you tell me:

• What is your client’s current situation (e.g., recently laid off, seeking a career change, seeking a promotion)?

• What is your client’s primary goal in this job search?

• What is your client’s personality like (e.g., analytical, creative, detail-oriented)?

Need any assistance? Want to collaborate? jfeldman@shifthappens.com 312 527-1111