Changing careers is an exciting challenge, but it's also a big leap psychologically and financially. Before you switch careers, carefully research your current field as well as possible new ones. You may find interesting opportunities in your present line of work or you may be ready for a complete about-face in a career you never knew existed.
Follow Your Passion
If you're changing careers, chances are you're burned out from your first one. This time around, pick something that fulfills a passion, recommends "The Times of London." In a "Times" article, business psychologist Rob Yeung suggests looking at a field you enjoy as a hobby--one that makes the hours slip by without you noticing.
Find Support
As you begin to contemplate a career change, develop a support group to advise you. "The Washington Post" suggests contacting friends, family members and business associates who have your interests at heart. They can offer common-sense ideas and they may help you make connections in your field of interest. You can also network through your church, alumni association or community service organization.
Test the Waters
Even if you have a passion for a new field, spend time working in it before you make a radical change. You can shadow someone who works in that arena, or as "The Times" suggests, participate first as a volunteer. If you love animals, you may think you want to be a veterinary assistant, but you may change your mind after spending time in a hospital or clinic. You might find you can't handle the pain and sickness or you might prefer spending time with animals during leisure time rather than during work hours.
Think Realistically
If you've gotten a taste of it and you still want to work in a certain field, your next step is mapping out how to make your career change. "The Times" says to investigate the time--and money--required to retrain and choose your path accordingly. You may start your new training while you're still working in your current career or you might need to find funding to attend school full time.
Research Opportunities
You need to do an entirely new kind of research when you're ready to begin your new career. Study prospective employers in your field to see which ones interest you and which ones are hiring. You'll also be impressive on an interview if you show thorough knowledge of the company, says David Helfand, a career counselor at the Northeastern Illinois University. Big companies get a lot of attention, Helfand says, but it's wise to consider small companies that have a good chance of expanding.
Member Comments