Before you take the leap into a new career, you need to be cautious. You need to consider your current situation, and what it is about it you would like to change. For example, you may want a more challenging or rewarding career, to earn more money, to achieve a better work-life balance, or to pursue a passion. This will help you to work out whether a complete career change is necessary, or if you could make other changes in your life which could address your issues. However, if you do decide a career change is what is required, this guide will help you make the right choice.
What skills and qualifications do you have?
When you have a shortlist of potential careers, you need to find out if you have the necessary skills and/or qualifications. If you do not, you can look into taking evening classes or studying a Merrimack Bachelor Completion program online to upgrade your education and skillset. With part-time study, you can continue to earn money and pursue your new career at the same time.
What do you like/dislike about your current career?
You need to pinpoint what it is about your current career that you do not enjoy or does not suit your lifestyle. It is a good idea, at the end of the working day, to write down how you are feeling, what has irritated or stressed you during the day, and what you have enjoyed. This will help you identify whether you dislike your role, your colleagues, your manager, or the company culture. If you dislike the people you work with, would a move to another department fix the problem? If management makes your working day miserable, would a move to a new company give you a fresh start? However, if your negativity is primarily centered on your role, it may be time for a change.
What are you interested in?
Think back to previous employment, voluntary roles, or even events you have attended that you have enjoyed and consider what about those experiences appealed to you. While money is usually a big motivator, often we get the biggest rewards when we are working in an industry we are personally interested in and which resonates with our values. You might be passionate about the environment, working with young people, helping in the community, or using your skills to grow other people’s businesses. Pursuing a long-held ambition or interest can be the key to a lasting and successful career.
What are your preferred career paths?
With your interests in mind, you will probably have some ideas about possible career paths, but you need to do your research. Sometimes we cannot see our own strengths or potential, so talk to your friends and family to find out what career they think you are well-suited to. The Internet is a great place to begin researching your options and creating a shortlist.
Who can you contact for more details/experience?
You may already know someone who works in your chosen industry, and they will be best placed to help you understand the pros and cons of your potential career change. Reach out to old college friends or professional contacts in your network. If you can, arrange to shadow someone, or complete some voluntary work experience, as this will give you a much clearer idea about whether the move is right for you.
No comments:
Post a Comment