If you are not enjoying the work you do, it’s harder to be productive as the minutes drag by… feeling like hours. Are you miserable in your current profession and want a change? Perhaps you want to earn more money or move your career to the next level. A career change might sound daunting, but in the long run can be worth it. These four steps will get you started on the path to a career change.
Research Possible Careers
Some people already have a new career in mind. It might be something they have always wanted to do or related to a field that has interested them for years. However, most people still need to narrow down their list to just one. Research is vital when considering a new career because you want to make sure you are choosing the right one. One of the best places to research new career options is the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Look up how many people work in the profession, whether the industry is going to grow or shrink, and even the job turnover rate.
Job Shadowing or Information Gathering
Once you have done your proper research, it is important to learn as much about the career field as possible. You can arrange to interview those you already know work in the industry, or you can even reach out to people who have worked in it before. Social media is a great way to meet possible interviewees. You might even be able to contact an employer related to the career you are looking to move into so you can arrange to job shadow several of their employees. Job shadowing will give you an inside look at your possible new career.
Go Back to School If Necessary
It can be pretty difficult to switch career fields without having the educational background to go with it. Because of that, many people feel stuck in their originally chosen field. However, there are many options for you in terms of education. In fact, there are many different degrees that you can get online. For example, you can get a degree in nursing, computers or if teaching is you goal you could get your master’s degree in history, math or English. You don’t even need to quit your day job. The biggest benefit of doing online school is that you can go to school on a schedule that works best for you.
Network Within the Industry
Even while you are still working to make sure you fill all the prerequisites for your chosen new career, it’s important to network within the industry. Not only will you meet people who share your interest in the career field, but you can also learn about potential employers. Reaching out to people on social media sites like LinkedIn will set you up to find the right position with the right employer. Don’t just add people randomly, reach out with a message as to why you are contacting them. Pay attention to their job-related posts and be sure to keep in contact with those who work within the company you would like to work with.
It might not happen overnight when you are looking to make a career change. However, if you aren’t interested in the work you currently do, a career change can bring in more money, give you job security, and let you feel better about yourself and your work. Even if education is required, take your time to study hard and learn all you can to set you up for success in your new chosen career.
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