In December 2007, the Secretary General of the United Nations said that the world is at the threshold of the age of green economics. He predicted that this transformation will be comparable to the Industrial Revolution.
How does the job seeker cross that threshold to a more environmentally conscious career? "The green economy is exploding in numerous industries and market sectors, and nobody has a chart that says `This is where to go,'" says Barbara Parks, who coaches people in the process of exploring and moving into green careers. As a result, says Parks, when she meets with new clients, "`Overwhelmed' is the first thing I hear. People get online and find so much information that they don't know where to start."
Working Knowledge
Parks' first piece of advice, which can be challenging for a technology worker, is to spend less time on the computer and more time talking to people. Go out and talk to people about businesses, jobs and training, Parks said. She recommends attending meetings and workshops sponsored by organizations like the Minnesota Renewable Society (www.MNRenewables.org).
Once a job seeker has determined an industry or market sector to focus on, "landing a job will mean taking time to develop a working knowledge of green," Parks says. Volunteer work and internships can provide the needed background. "Internships are a very direct pathway into the green economy. Some internships can be just as sought-after as high-paying jobs," Parks says.
Buyer Beware
Buyer beware still applies in green economics. Ads promising to help people start a renewable energy business may be solar panel washing franchises. Parks ordered "The Alternative Energy Job-Seeker's Guide" online and received a three-ring, vinyl binder filled with photocopies of information that's available free online - another reason to seek out knowledgeable local contacts.
Parks says that people who are intimidated or reluctant to network in a new field should remember that they are approaching people who share their concerns about the future of the planet. "This isn't about adding contacts to a Rolodex. You're building a community," she says. "The whole environmental crisis is showing us that we need each other. You're not on your own!"
Build a Green Network
The Minnesota Sustainable Green Communities Network is designed to help individuals and businesses move toward sustainability. The website provides information on topics from agriculture to water, and includes a calendar of events: www.nextstep.state.mn.us.
For information on Barbara Parks' green career coaching, presentations and workshops, go to www.greencareertracks.com.
Laura French is principal of Words Into Action, Inc., and is a freelance writer from Roseville.