Embarking on a new career path can feel overwhelming for many individuals. For about 50% of employed Americans, according to a Pew Research study, their profession closely ties to their identity, making any change a significant life adjustment.
Laneice Runnels, who serves as the workforce director for Waukesha, Ozaukee, and Washington Counties under the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, has guided numerous people through these transitions. Runnels emphasizes the importance of courage and patience in this process: “It’s really about having the courage to speak about it, think about it and to move forward,” she stated. “We have to remember that this is a process, right? It’s not going to happen overnight, but if you’re willing to do the work, you don’t have to do it alone. That’s what we’re here for.”
Currently, job seekers can explore over 57,000 job listings on the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development’s Job Center website, which Runnels suggests as an excellent starting point for career exploration.
In a recent appearance on WPR’s “The Larry Meiller Show,” Runnels shared insights with host Lee Rayburn about essential tools for career development. The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.
Where to Begin When Considering a Career Change
Lee Rayburn: If I were to consider changing careers, where would I even begin?
Runnels: Making a career change is a powerful step towards shaping the future that you want. I would start by reflecting with what truly matters to you. Look at your strengths, your interests, your values and your long-term goals.
Runnels recommends asking yourself what energizes you and identifying skills you enjoy utilizing. This initial self-reflection serves as a personal roadmap to guide the next steps. She advises exploring career options through resources like the Job Center of Wisconsin, where users can also access WisConomy to identify high-demand careers and growing industries.
The Role of AI in Resume Building
LR: The way I understand it now is that artificial intelligence may be entering into the resume game in a way that is not just helping to write resumes, but also helping to read resumes as well. So what does that mean for job seekers who are out there trying to find their next gig?
Runnels: AI is a great tool. Yes, a lot of people are using it. I don’t discourage the use of AI, but I also encourage people to understand that it’s a tool. It’s not the answer. You are the pilot. It’s just the copilot. And some people are flipping that around.
She emphasizes that while AI can assist in generating ideas, the unique human experience is what truly sets a resume apart. “AI can’t add that — AI is not you. AI is not your human experience,” Runnels noted, highlighting the importance of personal experiences and individual stories in resumes.
Navigating Job Loss and Moving Forward
LR: What happens when somebody is laid off and loses their job? What’s the first step they should take, and how should they move forward once they find themselves without employment?
Runnels: First of all, I just want to honor the fact that that is a moment of grief. It’s a setback, and you want to allow yourself time to grieve.
She encourages transitioning from mourning to growth, suggesting small actions like updating resumes and networking with family and friends. Runnels also encourages visiting the Job Center of Wisconsin and applying for unemployment benefits, which she describes as a valuable resource rather than a handout.
Empowerment and Forward Momentum
LR: Laneice, if you could leave our listeners with one message about navigating their careers and their lives in this season, what would it be?
Runnels: You have more power than you think. Whenever you’re facing a layoff or you’re thinking about a change or you feel stuck, you’re not alone. One moment doesn’t define your future. You don’t have to see the whole staircase just to take one step forward.
Runnels concludes by asserting that a willingness to move forward is the most valuable asset, emphasizing the importance of partnering with support systems to advance on one’s career journey.
