Introverts Learn How To Snag Big Jobs In LA
Workers with introverted personality traits are learning to override their shyness by pursuing profitable jobs in Los Angeles that don't require a demonstrative presence. Many adept loners are leaning toward gratifying career paths in the aggrandizing field of finance. They're landing posts as financial analysts, investment managers and corporate accountants, earning up to $104,000 annually.
"The primary skills required for these well-paying positions are more focused on internal operations versus direct interface with external customers," said Rich Burnes, program director of financial management programs at UCLA Extension. "Successful workers are also highly respected for possessing a specific body of knowledge as well as demonstrating excellent analytic and critical-thinking abilities."
What is the biggest hurdle bashful job seekers face?
"Since leading organizations are transforming their internal operations from a solo administrative model to cross-functional teams that require more interaction and cooperation among workers, skittish job seekers are having to show evidence of good communication and team-building skills."
What are you doing to help timid workers snag and keep a big job?
"At UCLA Extension, we offer nearly 150 accounting and finance courses each quarter that provide our students with coursework that can lead to leading industry certifications that can help open doors to leading employers. Within the classroom, our instructors fully support active participation to help mirror what students will encounter in the workplace."
What has been your greatest success story to date?
"We've recently launched a new group in partnership with one of the professional associations we work with, and this new initiative has allowed many of our students to go outside their comfort level by participating in committees and taking on leadership roles for this new group."
What is your advice to job seekers that lack self-assurance?
"I encourage all of our students to participate in networking activities, internships and career events that can help build their softer skills. A big part of career success still comes from long-standing attributes, including a dedicated work ethic, passion for your work and an ability to execute good ideas. Many introverts excel in these characteristics."
Sharon Raiford Bush is an award-winning journalist who covers topics of social interest in greater Los Angeles. Some news articles she has authored have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Sharon also contributes to Examiner.com.
