8 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE MAKING A CAREER CHANGE
Whether you have just started thinking about a career change or are currently pursuing career options, here are some things to help the process:
1. Write our your 'Why'. Think about why you want to change careers and write them down. For instance, are you dissatisfied or disillusioned with your current job, boss, company, or career field? Or is there something you've always wanted to do that's calling your name? Doing so will help you determine if you really do want to change careers, how soon you want to make your move and the type of career that would best meet your needs.
2. Do Research. Make a list of your likes and dislikes. Focus on your likes and look for new careers that center around your likes and passions. Look on-line and in the library for more information on your field(s) of interest. Look up job opportunities, pay scales, advancement opportunities, required hours and quality of life.
3. Ask Questions. Talk to people in the field(s) that interest you. You'll create a future network of contacts, find out relevant information to the field and develop a thorough understanding of what it would take to do what you love.
4. Investigate a Variety of Options. If you are still unsure of the exact direction you want to pursue, take the time to check a few options. Use your lists from step 1 and 2 and spend some time exploring a few different careers.
5. Make a Plan. Develop a comprehensive plan for making your career change. Look at what it will take from training, skills, tools & financial support to time off work and family considerations.
6. Get Experience. You will most likely need to get additional training or education to gain the skills you need to be competitive in your new career field. Ideally you can do this while working at your current job. If not, see if you can volunteer or do some part-time work in the field to get some exposure.
7. Create a Support System. Enlist several friends, family members or mentors that are supportive of your move to help motivate you and keep you focused on your goal. Let them know their role. It's natural to have insecure and unsure moments, which is when you will need your established support system.
8. Enjoy the Process & Celebrate. You've chosen a new career based on what you love and are passionate about! Congratulations! This is a terrific moment when you are fully engaged and enjoying each moment. Yes, it will be hard at times and a lot of effort, and one thing you'll find when you love what you do, is that it doesn't feel like work!
8 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE MAKING A CAREER CHANGE
Whether you have just started thinking about a career change or are currently pursuing career options, here are some things to help the process:
1. Write our your 'Why'. Think about why you want to change careers and write them down. For instance, are you dissatisfied or disillusioned with your current job, boss, company, or career field? Or is there something you've always wanted to do that's calling your name? Doing so will help you determine if you really do want to change careers, how soon you want to make your move and the type of career that would best meet your needs.
2. Do Research. Make a list of your likes and dislikes. Focus on your likes and look for new careers that center around your likes and passions. Look on-line and in the library for more information on your field(s) of interest. Look up job opportunities, pay scales, advancement opportunities, required hours and quality of life.
3. Ask Questions. Talk to people in the field(s) that interest you. You'll create a future network of contacts, find out relevant information to the field and develop a thorough understanding of what it would take to do what you love.
4. Investigate a Variety of Options. If you are still unsure of the exact direction you want to pursue, take the time to check a few options. Use your lists from step 1 and 2 and spend some time exploring a few different careers.
5. Make a Plan. Develop a comprehensive plan for making your career change. Look at what it will take from training, skills, tools & financial support to time off work and family considerations.
6. Get Experience. You will most likely need to get additional training or education to gain the skills you need to be competitive in your new career field. Ideally you can do this while working at your current job. If not, see if you can volunteer or do some part-time work in the field to get some exposure.
7. Create a Support System. Enlist several friends, family members or mentors that are supportive of your move to help motivate you and keep you focused on your goal. Let them know their role. It's natural to have insecure and unsure moments, which is when you will need your established support system.
8. Enjoy the Process & Celebrate. You've chosen a new career based on what you love and are passionate about! Congratulations! This is a terrific moment when you are fully engaged and enjoying each moment. Yes, it will be hard at times and a lot of effort, and one thing you'll find when you love what you do, is that it doesn't feel like work!