Thinking of Changing Careers?
Continuing Education Begins With A Thorough Career Assessment
The thought of changing careers can be frightening, but can also lead to additional job training, vocational training, or many types of continuing education options!
Are you looking forward professionally and seeing a dead end that is causing you to consider changing careers? Do you find yourself frequently assessing your career options? The decision-making process for adults considering a career change that involves additional job or vocational training can be a huge one, with many factors that include not only your future, but your family’s as well.
Your desired career change may be subtle. It may involve a move within the company you’re currently working for, and partnering with them for new job training or professional development. It may involve a shift to another company with a similar career position. You may eventually decide that vocational training or continuing education is what you need to do. You may even decide that you want to pursue the career in interior decorating or landscaping you always wanted. If the career change you are considering is one that will require significant lifestyle and financial adjustments, there are some ideas that should be considered.
Some of the most basic personal considerations may be difficult. Some of them probably resemble some of the things your mother might say! Consider these:
- Make sure you have a plan: A thorough career assessment includes consideration of what makes you happy! The most lucrative career isn’t worth much if you’re miserable.
- Money isn’t everything: Comparing yourself to others is a mistake many career-changers make. Don’t base your decisions on the success of others. Just because they’re good at something doesn’t mean you will be.
- Mind your own business! Take advantage of every opportunity to garner the information you need before making a change. Whether it’s doing your own research on job descriptions, talking to a career counselor or exploring the local market, have a keen awareness of what is out there.
- Do your homework: : Although the lure of something new and less stressful is often very strong, take the time to consider your plans carefully. The time you take in laying out your steps will pay off in the long run with a smoother transition time and far less stress.
There are also basic questions you should ask yourself regarding your current skills and abilities. Does your career change involve a complete shift in focus? Do you have career skills that are transferable? Will you consider options within the field you’re currently in? Is continuing education in your future? If your decision to change careers involves additional training or education, statistics show that the wages you earn will increase in proportion to your training. The Career Changers website is a great resource that provides information on what to expect and how additional education will be of benefit to you as you progress in your decision making.
The US Bureau of Labor statistics also shows that the rate of unemployment decreases the more education or training you receive. You may ultimately choose to attend school at night or on weekends, in a traditional setting or through distance learning. You may move forward with the benefit of a professional development plan from your current employer or completely on your own. The good news is that the options are many once you have determined the direction you will move in, and you’re on your way!
Let me know what your experience has been with changing careers!
