Tips for Switching Careers
May 21, 2010 – 7:57 pmAccording to a recent article in Money Magazine, at least half of American workers are dissatisfied with their current careers. These disgruntled employees are using layoffs and budget cuts as an opportunity to pursue their passions and search for new career paths. Switching jobs can be challenging. However, here are some tips on how to make a smooth transition into a new and rewarding career.
Figure Out How Your Skills Translate
It’s not impossible to get a job as a development director of a non-profit if you have a background in music education. However, you need to be able to show your prospective employer how the skills you learned in your former profession will help you in your new field. Figure out what your strengths are and sell those to your would-be boss.
Network, network. If you’re looking for a new job in a new field the best way to get legit job leads is to network. Ask around - not just your former business colleagues, but neighbors, friends and family members. Use social media to contact people in your prospective profession. Cast a wide net and don’t be afraid to call in a few favors.
Some professions require you to complete certain certifications or training courses before you jump in. Even if your prospective career doesn’t require you to complete job training, having a few courses under your belt may make you a more attractive job candidate. Determine what skills successful employees have and try to enroll in low-cost accelerate training courses.
The reality is that if you’re switching careers, you’re probably facing a sizable pay cut. It’s important to get your finances in order before you make the leap. Do your research and compare your current salary to what you’ll make in your ideal career. Make adjustments to your budget and try living on less for a few months before you make the switch.
Turn Your Passion into a Career
Looking for a new career? Try to find a way to turn your hobbies and pursuits into your new profession. Whether you like to fish, write sonnets, scrapbook or teach swimming lessons at the local pool, you can find a way to make your passions a full-time career.
For more info on switching careers, click here.
Andrea Hart is a freelance writer, a student, a teacher, a wife and a mother to two rambunctious boys. She currently resides in Southeastern PA.
3 Responses to “Tips for Switching Careers”
I’m wondering if there are women out there who are passionate, like me, about shopping for clothing, either for themselves or for others. If you HATE to shop, how would you describe your ideal personal shopper?
By Joni Jacobs on Jun 1, 2010
“Turn Your Passion into a Career” it is the best way to start your career. If you opt a career other then your passion then it might b possible your success ratio will be low on the other hand if your career is according to your passion then might be possible you will touch heights of success.
By Sanoy on Jun 4, 2010
Quite a beautiful website. I recently built mine and i was looking for some design ideas and you gave me a few. The website was developed by you?
Thanks
By Halina Prather on Nov 17, 2010