Who’s in Your Peloton?

While you can move toward your career goal by yourself, imagine how much faster you could achieve those goals by working with a group.

In other words, who is in your peloton?

The men’s Tour de France is taking place now, with the women’s Tour coming up soon. Every year, teams of cyclists wind their way across the countryside and up mountain passes during the greatest cycling race in the world.

Cycling may look like an individual sport, but its foundation is based on teamwork. Yes, there is a team leader, and the other riders ride in support of the leader. They may ride to block the wind for the leader, making it easier for him or her to compete for the stage win.

And a key component of the ride is the goal. Why is the team riding for hours and hours in the hot French sun? Are they chasing the overall race win, to wear the coveted yellow jersey, to be awarded at the end of the race in Paris (or this year, in Nice)? Or to win one of the other jerseys? The team decides which jersey they are capable of winning, then they put their energy to competing for it.

What is the right course for you?

Once the team knows what the objective is, they build the team to best achieve the goal. When the goal is to win the yellow jersey, the team leader is someone who can best handle the mountains and the flat stages, and the team can best chase back potential challengers.

When it comes to your career, how can you achieve the jersey of your dreams?

First, what is the jersey you’re looking to wear? Is it a promotion? Moving to another department? Leaving your career and going into something completely different?

Then, who can you add to your team to help you achieve your goal? Who has expertise in your dream career area? Who can mentor and coach you on the road to your success?

Third, who can help you celebrate your wins and keep you on track? Who can hold you accountable?

The Tour de France analogy really shows the power of leaning into your team while in the midst of a career transition. While you can chart a course solo, a powerful support network –your "career peloton" – can dramatically accelerate your progress. As an African proverb says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

Here's how building your peloton can empower your career shift:

• Expertise and Mentorship: Identify pros in your desired field who can offer guidance, share industry insights, and answer your questions. Look at attending networking events, joining online communities, or reaching out directly to individuals you admire.

• Accountability and Support: Surround yourself with people who will hold you accountable for your goals. Seek out friends or colleagues who will celebrate your wins and offer a supportive nudge during the inevitable roadblocks that will come.

• Skill Development and Feedback: Reach out others who possess skills relevant to your dream career. Work with them on projects, seek outinformational interviews, or explore mentorship opportunities. This will give you the chance to develop new skills while receiving invaluable feedback.

• Confidence and Inspiration: Surround yourself with positive people and motivated individuals. Their enthusiasm can be infectious, boosting your confidence and keeping you inspired throughout your transition.

Keep in mind that building your peloton is an ongoing process. As you navigate your career path, your support network will evolve. Don't hesitate to seek out new connections and cultivate relationships that propel you forward.

So, take a deep breath, define your career "jersey" – that promotion, department change, or a completely new path. Then, start assembling your peloton. With a supportive network by your side, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the challenging terrain of career transitions and conquer any mountain that stands in your way.

I’m Richard Taliaferro. I’m a certified career and health coach, trained in habit change, specializing in helping mid-stage professionals gain clarity on their career and health journeys. I invite you to click on the link, and let’s talk about how I can support you.