Blog

​Autumn has come and gone but what it did bring were new plans, insights, and my reflections on the first half of the year. Old ways were put aside, giving room for new growth and opportunity.

These reflections allowed me to think about the SAP industry and the range of positions that are now available for many skilled SAP consultants. Consultants that have had lengthy careers in the world of SAP. Maybe they’re long term employees of a company and have moved up the ladder to lead great teams? Maybe they’ve had opportunities to travel with global companies?

Whichever the case, there comes a time in a persons’ career when they have a burning desire to make a change. They’ve built up a particular set of skills that make them valuable and therefore able to make more choice regarding the rest of their career.

You may not be ready to retire yet, but you can certainly turn your later working years into an adventure. With a great skill set comes the opportunity of flexibility and choices you may not have had as a younger consultant.

Take on short contracts
Get your own caravan and hit the open road. You can work anywhere and travel from contract to contract, having breaks in between jobs to enjoy the destinations. This is a great way to see Australia and also to promote yourself as being flexible in the eyes of agents- ‘yes, I’ll travel anywhere!’

There are a few things to keep in mind:

• Plan your trip so you’re not stuck without a contract

• Keep in contact with your network

• Stay up-to-date with skills and knowledge

You may be in the Never-Never for one season and next thing you know, you’re in wine country!

Consider part-time work
If travelling around the country is not for you, but you’re still looking for some down time, why not consider part-time? This is a great way to start winding down while still working and keeping up with any of the latest changes in your chosen field. Best of all, you can still make decent money on a daily rate while working 2-3 days per week.

The rest of your week can be focussed on hobbies, family, that novel you have been working on or maybe more ‘me’ time. More and more employers are open to part-time, but you won’t always see it advertised. Unless it’s a high-pressure project environment, part-time roles will be considered.

Move overseas or interstate
If you have been considering moving to a new city or even a new country, this might be the time for you. The kids have grown up, you’ve potentially paid the mortgage, and you’re free to uproot and explore a new place. There are plenty of opportunities for project and support roles across the country, and the world. If you have a niche skillset, there is a strong possibility that you have a chance of securing working visa’s for certain countries.

Do some research, find a location that offers a lifestyle that suits you, and start to network. Often large consulting companies will offer sponsorship for a particular expertise. Who knows where it will take you? You may end up working in New York City while working on some leading SAP technologies!

Is it really that easy?
You may be thinking, is it really that easy? What if I can’t find a job? The trick is to plan ahead, research, start networking and most importantly, tell people your plans. By talking to people in your industry about what you want to do, you never know what may come up. It will also give you a good idea if your skills are in demand in other locations.

If you’re unsure, ask your recruitment agent or other people in your field. Nothing is guaranteed, but the only way to make a change is to take those first steps towards your goals.

The balance of work and lifestyle is a constant challenge for many. Making the change later in your career can be a frightening thought, but if it’s something you crave, maybe this is the time to make the leap.

If you’re interested in new opportunities, feel free to contact the Speller team. You never know what’s out there!