Tips for Changing Careers
Posted: Friday, November 20, 2009
by Terry Mitchell
http://commenterry.blogs.com
Back in the days of our grandparents and even for many of our parents, a career was something you did from the time you got out of college until you retired. Very few people even thought about switching careers, but these days, it`s far more common. In fact, as various industries drop in popularity, more and more people are leaving what they may have considered to be solid jobs and are looking for new careers.
Starting a new career doesn`t have to be a bad thing. In fact, it can be exhilarating and interesting, as well as providing a better income. Why you are moving in a new direction will vary depending on your situation . . . some people make the change because they lose their job, others are bored and want something more interesting, and still others need to earn more money for one reason or another. Here are some tips to make the transition easier.
Network. It`s amazing what the power of networking can accomplish. You never know, the guy you talk to each morning at the bagel shop might have a sister-in-law at a firm you want to work for. Never underestimate talking to people and making connections, both online and off, it could come in very handy.
Rewrite your resume. The one you have might have been perfect for the career you are currently in, but you`ll need to make sure that you update it for the new one. This might mean putting in some jobs you left off before, removing others that are no longer relevant or it might mean that you need to redo the entire thing.
Stay flexible. When you switch industries, you can`t expect to keep your status. Chances are you`ll be working your way up from the bottom again and being flexible about salary, location and other factors will help you do just that. You`re far more likely to get the position if you leave your preconceptions behind and go with the flow.
Get some experience. If you`re making a drastic change, you will have far better luck getting a job if you already have some experience. This might mean volunteering, working weekends in your chosen industry or taking on a position as an intern to get a good start. This can go on your resume and will help future employers see that you are dedicated to the new career path.
Research your new area. There`s no point in leaving one job behind only to move to another that you detest just as much, so take the time to research your career options and figure out which one will work best for you. Don`t stick to just reading about it . . . talk to people who work in the industry to find out what they like and dislike about it.
Changing careers, no matter what age, can be done. It isn`t always easy, but if you are truly unhappy in your current work situation or have lost your job, then it`s a leap well worth making. Just be sure to research your new industry carefully and to select one that utilizes your skills and interests.
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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)Hi Terry.Great tips! I might also add that if you have the opportunity to talk to people who already work for the person who will be your new boss (assuming you're not going for that position), take it.DianneDianne, thanks for reading and commenting. And I agree with the additional point that you added.
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