Imagine this: you’re looking for your next gig, and but you’re not exactly sure which direction to go. Maybe you’re trying to switch industries, or maybe you don’t have a clear sense of what kind of work you want to do. So many of us have felt this way, and it’s totally normal. 

Now envision you’re having a conversation with someone and they ask something like “What do you think you want to do next?”

How would you respond?

If you’re like us, you likely just quickly answered “I’m not sure.” After all, it’s true, and you’re willing to talk to anyone who might be able to help you figure it out.

While it may be true, it may not be the most helpful thing to say. Imagine that instead of saying “I don’t know,” you respond with something like:

“I’m a people person, so I’d really like to find an opportunity where I can build relationships with folks. I also love to learn, so doing something where each day is a little different feels interesting. Oh, and I am super detail-oriented so finding something that uses that could be cool. I’m always the one that organizes every detail of our family vacations and I am keep everyone on track.”

What’s interesting about this type of answer? You may not know what you want to do next, but you do know what’s important to you. Sharing a few things that you value gives an aura of confidence that you’re not lost, you’re simply on an adventure without a map. 

Which person would you hire?