People change career paths for many reasons; the decision may be based on financial, personal or strategic business factors. Regardless of the driving force behind the decision to change careers, those on the path to a career change are often met with uncertainty and may feel overwhelmed. At the same time, many workers on the road to a new career are excited about the possibilities and, in the end, discover rewarding and lucrative outcomes.
If you are unsure whether a career change is right for you, examine your current career path to arrive at a final decision. Do you have long-term plans that are not in line with your current career? Are you bored in your current job? Do you dream of working in a different job? Do you struggle to go to work every day? Have you explored other career options? Is there a lack of opportunity for career growth in your current position? If you find yourself answering “yes” to many of these questions, it is likely that a career change is the right move for you.
When embarking on a career change, make the most of your journey by following a simple six-step approach that includes diagnosis, introspection, definition, adaptation, expansion and transition. First, diagnose your current position to determine what it is you dislike about it. These are key factors to avoid in your next career move. Next, look at yourself introspectively to determine where your skills and interests lie. Consider your personal values, your passions, and your life and career goals, and find an area where they all overlap. Now you can define your dream job. List your priorities, ideal work hours and preferred salary. Give thought to work responsibilities, job location and corporate culture. Decide where you’re willing to compromise and what factors are non-negotiable for you.
The next step to a career change is to examine the possibility of adapting your current position to better align with your goals. Could your current job be modified to better fit with your list of priorities? If geographic location is an issue, discuss the possibility of telecommuting with your manager. If compensation is the problem, demonstrate to your boss why you deserve a raise. If you are bored with your work responsibilities, talk to your supervisor about taking on projects that are more challenging.
If you can’t adapt your current situation, look for expansion opportunities within your current employer. There may be another department within your organization where your skills and interests could be better utilized. You may be bored with your work in human resources, while the company’s marketing department could allow you to showcase your creative abilities.
When expansion is not an option within your current workplace, explore the possibility of transitioning to a new employer or even becoming your own boss. Begin the job search for a career that fits your wish list, or do some research on self-employment options.
A career change can be daunting, but it can also lead to very positive and satisfying opportunities. Taking a systematic approach to beginning a new career helps to remove some of the uncertainty, quell your fears, and produce a rich and rewarding future doing something you love.
Photo courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Become a member to take advantage of more features, like commenting and voting.
Register or sign in today!