The Squiggly Line Career: How Changing Professions Can Advance a Career in Unexpected Ways

by Angela Champ

When we are children, people ask us what we want to be when we grow up. The question elicits all sorts of dreams as a kid - "I want to be a ballerina" or "a firefighter" or "an astronaut." It becomes daunting as we grow up and start feeling pressured to make a choice that could affect the rest of our lives. What if we're not meant to follow just one path but, rather, pursue a squiggly line career that moves us across professions and industries? Filled with examples of real life squiggly line careers and interactive exercises, this book challenges you to think beyond your job title and the traditional career path. It also provides tips and guidance for recruiters, human resource professionals and hiring managers, and makes the case for how to attract a squiggly line career candidate.
A must-read for job seekers looking for their next squiggly step and for recruiters tasked with finding the perfect candidate for their roles, this book will change the way you think about careers and recruitment.

192 pages, Hardcover

Published December 1, 2020

Reviews

[TBR Mountain]

Finally a book that celebrates taking a non-traditional career path! Great tips for anyone looking at how to discuss their “squiggly line” of job choices when it seems everyone else has taken a straight line approach. Also a solid resource for anyone working in HR or recruiting who wants to learn how to present non-traditional candidates for a role and show how skills can transfer over your excel at a new role.

[Ivana Mojic]

In her book, “The Squiggly Line Career”, Angela Champ does a terrific job by illustrating the appeal of a non-traditional career path for those who are brave to pursue it, as well as all the advantages of attracting and hiring squiggly line careerists. While reading this book, I came to reflect on my own career path. I used to have a very straight forward plan, but my curiosity and open mindedness has taken me in an unexpected direction. I must admit, I have never felt more comfortable taking the risk to explore a new opportunity as I have after reading Angela’s book. Her words have boosted my courage, confidence, and optimism. I am thrilled to have this guidebook on my bookshelf (let’s be honest, I will be re-reading it often) while I am navigating my career journey.

[Darin M]

This book is an excellent resource for any individual looking to take their career in a new direction, or an employer who wants to diversify their bench with competent and skilled individuals who your competitors may overlook.

Written in plain and simple language, it dispels practical tips and advice, accompanied with examples and exercises.

Amongst the sea of career development and HR books out there, I recommend this one for your library.

[Mitchel Campbell]

Thoroughly enjoyed this book! Loved its perspective, a different way of thinking that removes the, “traditional guilt”, associated with career maneuvers and timelines. Highly recommend!