Well, a traditional job is where

• An employer creates a job description
• They open up the job and select the best candidate
• In return for doing the work, the employee receives a predictable (if variable) income

So a non-traditional job would be one which breaks these conventions.  For instance, many jobs are filled which don’t actually have job descriptions.  This is normal in a small business, and if you’re a solo entrepreneur, your job description is “whatever’s necessary.”

You can also look at how the job is filled.  Now just because someone is placed into a job without ever having an interview doesn’t make it a non-traditional job.  But what happens when a job description isn’t stable enough to go through a hiring process?  There are environments where tasks are performed by various people, all contributing to the larger goals.  Useful work is getting done, but it’s not what you would think of as an identifiable job.

There’s also a lot of jobs and vocations which don’t provide pay.  Some of these you might call hobbies, or even “wasting time,” but often these can provide opportunities to contribute to your career path.

As an example, I worked at my personal development and leadership in coaching for a decade before I was given the opportunity (OK, pushed) to launch out on my own and gain an income through coaching.  But while I was still employed at other jobs, I:

• Honed my skills
• Became known as a coach
• Established some leadership in the area
• Developed my network of supporters
• Learned how to create a coaching business

As a result, when I did finally take the leap last year, I was much more prepared then I was ten years prior.

Here’s the big question for you:  What kinds of non-traditional jobs and career choices might you be ready for?

An important resource

I’ve been following Seth Godin’s blog for some time now, and have run across a lot of others who also get a great deal of value out of his short snippets and thoughtful observations about marketing.  And it’s not just about marketing your business, but also yourself.  How do you want to be perceived?

Check it out at sethgodin.typepad.com.

If you are interested in individual career coaching, group coaching, or other resources which might help you with difficult choices, please contact Carl at carl@dierschow.com.

Connect with Carl on Facebook and LinkedIn to get timely updates and connections to a broader range of professionals.

© 2010 Possibilities Partnership LLC