Her switch did not stem from dissatisfaction, Lon explains. “Actually, I was still having a great time in my old job. I had been working for Radboud University for 12 years in the Marketing & Communications department, where I was responsible for providing information to secondary schools about study choices. The organisation bit in particular appealed to me. Still, I started to feel restless after an organisational change was announced. It made me wonder whether my job would still suit me.”
Valuable insights
To find answers to that question, Lon decided to consult a career coach. “It was a conscious choice: I wanted to have a chat with someone who would be neutral. During the talks with that coach, I gained some insight into the activities that give me energy and the work environments that suit me best. The conclusion was that I still liked my job, but that I was ready for another place.”
For Lon, one thing was certain: that other place had to be an educational environment. “I have a background in education; it’s where I feel at home. So I looked into positions at other educational institutions, until I came across a vacancy for my current position: project manager at the Radboud Teaching & Learning Centre. Everything in that job description made me enthusiastic: I could continue to organise activities, while at the same time be more involved with the educational content.”
Feeling safe
After a successful application, Lon's desired career move became a reality. “The Radboud Teaching & Learning Centre is a relatively young organisational unit, where there are lots of opportunities to think of and try out new plans. That makes it a great environment in which to develop further. In my current position, I am the link between the content and the devising of targeted activities to drive educational innovation and professional development. Of course this move was a bit scary beforehand, but it felt safe to stay within Radboud University and still have my former colleagues around. I know I can count on this employer.” Due to the size of the organisation, I sometimes find the fine-tuning and the delays it causes challenging, but I do like the fact that there’s so much attention to a good work-life balance here.”
All in all, Lon has so far not regretted her internal career move. She can recommend it to anyone. “It may seem like a big step beforehand: you have to let go of the familiar. You find yourself in a different environment and work-wise you go from being consciously competent to suddenly being consciously incompetent. Still, I’ve learned that it’s good to take a close look at yourself from time to time, to see what makes you happy. And in a different environment, there are always colleagues willing to help you find your way. My role is clear and necessary; it's nice to be able to add value.”
Is your current job still right for you? Get started with your career profile and check out this information on what an internal transfer entails.