This week this thread is an open space where you can ask your questions on finding a career with impact. We also encourage you to share your experiences, and comment on each other’s questions.
Hi! Everyone initially starts with no experience, so you have to start somewhere! It's certainly possible to switch jobs into something more focused on sustainability - it depends on where your main interests and skills lie.
Impactful jobs can often be very competitive. What are your tips on staying grounded and protecting your well-being while searching for a high-impact job?
Good question! I would say, remembering that your capacity to have a high impact doesn't depend on securing any one specific job, and you can still make a huge difference before getting hired for an 'impact job.' I would also say, rethink your perception of what an 'impact job' is. People in NGOs and politics can't function without the people who are serving coffees, cleaning the buildings and managing the reception desk! There are plenty of ways to facilitate impact.
Climate jobs seem really popular which is great, but even using those helpful resources I won't be able to land a writing/research role in sustainability or energy without yet enough experience or the right qualifications. Guess I will have to stay interested in other ways.
Some areas of work are definitely more competitive than others and working as a writer or researcher is notoriously competitive. But as you say, there are plenty of ways to stay involved. Also, you can build up experience before you land a paid job in the field in other ways.
Hi! Do you think it's possible to switch careers into a job more focused on sustainability, even if I have no experience?
Hi! Everyone initially starts with no experience, so you have to start somewhere! It's certainly possible to switch jobs into something more focused on sustainability - it depends on where your main interests and skills lie.
Impactful jobs can often be very competitive. What are your tips on staying grounded and protecting your well-being while searching for a high-impact job?
Good question! I would say, remembering that your capacity to have a high impact doesn't depend on securing any one specific job, and you can still make a huge difference before getting hired for an 'impact job.' I would also say, rethink your perception of what an 'impact job' is. People in NGOs and politics can't function without the people who are serving coffees, cleaning the buildings and managing the reception desk! There are plenty of ways to facilitate impact.
Climate jobs seem really popular which is great, but even using those helpful resources I won't be able to land a writing/research role in sustainability or energy without yet enough experience or the right qualifications. Guess I will have to stay interested in other ways.
Some areas of work are definitely more competitive than others and working as a writer or researcher is notoriously competitive. But as you say, there are plenty of ways to stay involved. Also, you can build up experience before you land a paid job in the field in other ways.