If you are considering changing careers, there is a wonderful quote attributed to Dolly Parton –
Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.
However you have come to the decision – you want to make changing careers a great experience.
Things To Consider When Changing Careers
Ask yourself this question: if you could do anything you wanted, what would you ideally be doing with yourself? Do not constrain yourself.
Make a list of all the things you’d rather be doing with your time. Your first few replies will probably be something like: “Take an exotic holiday,” or “give myself more leisure time,” etc.
That’s fine for a start, but try to go further and explore your true desires.
If you are thinking of changing careers you may know exactly what you would like to do. If this is the case then changing careers is likely to be a lot less difficult than if you have no idea what direction you wish to take.
What should you consider when changing careers?
For most people changing careers is a decision that needs to be considered very seriously. If you have studied one subject it might mean returning to studies to get the necessary qualifications.
If you are married or have a family it might change the family routine. So here are some things you should consider when changing careers.
1. Assess your skills and talents.
Ask yourself: What am I good at? What do I most enjoy doing? Write down every skill you possess and add those you believe that you have the capability of gaining.
2. Think of jobs that allow you to do what you really want to do, and let you apply your skills and talents every day.
Be imaginative and open-minded.
3. Consider your financial situation.
How much does it cost, on a monthly and annual basis, to support your current standard of living? Are you willing to lower your standard so that you can take a job that pays less?
4. Make two lists;
One of everything you want in your new job, and one of everything you don’t.
5. Read job descriptions in your desired field thoroughly and familiarise yourself with the requirements of the role.
Conduct as much research as possible to see how competitive the job market may be.
6. Explore local schools and colleges for courses and programmes that may give you an advantage. Start taking classes as soon as possible.
Establish a positive connection with your teacher – they will prove to be a valuable reference when you’re applying for a new job.
7. Network!
If what they say is true – “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know” – then cover all your bases by getting to know the right people. Talk to people in your preferred field. Explain your situation. Ask them for advice. Give them your contact information.
8. Save enough money to support you (and your family) for 3-6 months;
or however long you think it’ll take to find a job in your new career that will support you adequately.
9. Write a new CV / Resume.
Make sure it represents you positively and it includes all relevant information a prospective employer wants to know. Remember writing a professional CV is only a click away.
10. Start your job search and good luck!
Perhaps you have successfully changed careers or are in the process of doing so and would like to share your experience with others.
Are you a work at home mum (WAHM) who has started your own business? Or maybe you are a mature job seeker who is thinking of changing careers by living and working abroad?
Here at The Personal Development Cafe we know that one of the best things to do with knowledge is to pass it on. So if your experience or experiences could help others to make changing careers a great experience, why not submit your story or questions.
If you think you have the answer to a question posted, please submit your reply below and we will review your comments and post them once approved.
Whilst we try to ensure that all the information we provide on Career Guidance, CV Writing, Job Search, Interview Skills & Techniques is accurate; we would like to point out that the information we have supplied is general and you should always seek legal advice where appropriate (e.g. in employment disputes).
