Navigating Non-Conventional Career Paths: Finding Your Own Model

based on episode 62 of the Professional Humans Podcast

If you’ve ever felt like your career path doesn’t quite fit into a traditional mold, you’re in good company. In a recent episode of Professional Humans, Jenna and I had a great chat with Teresa Marchek about how some of us take unconventional work paths and why that’s a good thing.

So, what do we mean by "non-conventional?” Maybe you didn’t take the typical route of going to school, getting a degree, and landing a job that fits that education. Or maybe life threw you some curveballs, like parenthood, caregiving, or even just wanting something different from the usual 9-to-5 grind. If you’ve ever felt like you’re carving out your own way, rather than following the same path as everyone else, this one’s for you.

The Shift in Work Models

One of the big takeaways from our conversation was how the landscape of work is changing. People are prioritizing flexibility in their careers, whether that’s through the gig economy or seeking out part-time roles that still let them climb the ladder. Teresa shared her own experience of stepping back from full-time work when she became a parent, negotiating a part-time role that allowed her to still add value to her company. It’s an inspiring example of how you can create space for yourself in ways that work for your life and still build a successful career.

Creating Value on Your Own Terms

The key to making this work? Confidence. Both in yourself and in the value you bring. Teresa’s story highlighted how she didn’t just ask for less time at work—she pitched how she could still deliver results while working part-time. Whether you’re leading a team or advocating for yourself, it’s all about framing your value in a way that makes sense for both you and your employer.

Different Models for Different People

Something we touched on was how different people thrive under different work conditions. Just like there are different learning models, there are different working models. Some people need flexibility in their schedules, while others might need to break out of the traditional office environment altogether. The pandemic opened up a lot of new possibilities for remote work, which means more of us can find the work model that fits us best.

At the end of the day, whether you’re navigating work-life balance, exploring freelance opportunities, or just figuring out what works for you, the most important thing is recognizing that your path doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.

Thanks for reading, and if any of this resonates with you, know that you're not alone on this journey. Until next time, keep being your awesome, unconventional self!

– Elli