Tips for Changing Careers

With the way the economy is these days, everyone seems to be changing the industry in which they are familiar in order to obtain a job. So many people are opting to find lesser-paying positions, or roles for which they are over-qualified. If you are in need for a new career, read on!

Before you start scouring the want-ads in frustration, you owe it to yourself to take a look at the big picture. What do you want out of work? What do you want to do with your life? What regrets have you had in your previous working experience? Take notes on all that comes to mind, recognizing that your interests might not be your strongest points, and that not all of your skills are something you truly enjoy doing.

Career Tools

Reading a self-help employment book is a good way of getting to what defines you as a worker and a person. My recommendation is 48 Days to the Work You Love. It is excellent at pinpointing your goals and dreams, converting your interests and God-given talents into what suits you best for work. Also look through the U.S. government's Occupational Handbook for thorough information on particular job descriptions, education involved, and projected need for that role. Skills Assessment tests help you understand where you would best fit. There are some free sites that do this, such as Career Fitter, Live Career, and MAPP. But certainly there are great tests like the Birkman or Strong Interest Inventory. There are plenty more available on the Internet, ranging from a few short questions to several pages at a time that provide information on suitable industries and even job titles that make sense for you.

Commit Yourself

Once you've got a handle on what you're looking for, do as much research as you can on the areas that interest you most. It might not guarantee a job overnight, but you'll be able to understand what it takes to be in a desired field and relate better to prospective employers in responding to their ads. Talk to other people from that industry - you friends, family, neighbors, and people from your church. Enroll in classes, join clubs, attend network seminars and meetings. All of those things increase your visibility and give you an education in what you need to do to land a good job. Plus, the support you receive among other people will give you a boost in your day, spurring you to move forward.

If all else fails, consider going into business for yourself. While it's not for everbody, everyone can do something on a consultation basis in a pinch. If you like animals, offer pet grooming, dog walking, or pet-sitting services. Retail positions in that area are also rewarding if that's something you enjoy. Volunteer somewhere if you have to - that is also another way to gain employment, or to network with someone else who crosses your path who can be of help in that area. Hang out at the library and read through public posting-boards. Even outside the grocery stores there are often classifieds, or perhaps such ads can give you further ideas for your own business ventures.

There is, unfortunately, no fool-proof way to get a job. But with your persistence, it will eventually pay off! I'm a firm believer in things happening for a reason and all in good time.