Just because you start out
on one career path doesn't mean you're stuck on it for eternity. Even if you
have one of the most sought-after jobs out there, you may eventually find that
it's just not for you. People decide to change careers for a whole host of
reasons. For example, maybe your vocational goals have changed, you've
discovered new interests, or you want a more flexible schedule. Bottom line,
it's never too late to make a change. So if you're thinking about striking out in a
new direction, here are a few tips:
Think about why you want to leave. What
is it about your current job that leaves you dissatisfied? It's important to
pinpoint whether you are unhappy with the type of work you're doing or the
company you're working for. Maybe your problem is with your boss, not your
whole industry. Or maybe your personal values have shifted to the point that
it's time to look for something dramatically different.
Assess your abilities. What
skills do you have that would be assets in other types of roles? If you're
stumped, try reading over the job description for your current position to see
what types of skills you use every day. Can you think critically, communicate
effectively, or work well on a team? Plenty of companies value employees with
those kinds of abilities. Chances are that you bring a lot more to the table
than you realize.
Research potential new careers. And
don't limit yourself to online searches. The best way to find out what a job is
really like is to talk to someone who has it. Reach out to your network of
contacts and try to set up informational interviews with people who do the kind
of work you're interested in. If possible, arrange to shadow someone at work so
you can get a realistic perspective on what's involved.
Overhaul your resume. If
you've worked for many years in one industry but are trying to make the leap to
another, your CV will need some serious revisions. You will probably want to
craft a functional resume, which emphasizes your skills, rather than a
traditional chronological resume, which focuses on your work history. Make sure
to include details about any projects you've done that demonstrate your
qualifications.
Don't resign in haste. It's
always easier to find a job when you already have a job. Hiring managers get
suspicious when they see gaps on a resume, so it's a good idea to stay put
until you line up a new position. Remember: You should be moving toward something,
not just escaping something.
Norb Leahy, Dunwoody
GA Tea Party Leader
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