Career Change Tips

• A detailed plan can often determine whether a person fails or succeeds. Those who succeed in their career transition have a comprehensive plan and strategy prior to it.
  
  
• Don't be afraid. It is common to be intimidated by a career change�those changing careers usually experience insecurity.
  
  
• Career changes do not occur overnight. It is a major life change, requiring preparation and planning. If your career transition is not occurring as quickly as you like, don't get down on yourself.
  
  
• Don't make a change just because you don't like your current job. Other reasons could be contributing to your unhappiness and changing jobs may not be the solution.
  
  
• Be sure your new job matches your interests. Don't start a new career you find unsatisfying, or you might make another change in the future.
  
  
• If you have skills that can be transferred, take advantage of your abilities. Skills that can be utilized in a new career will make the change smoother.
  
  
• Examine numerous careers prior to your final decision. Conduct research on these careers, so you can find one matching your skills and interest. Don't only consider careers similar to your current one.
  
  
• Obtain all the necessary training and education to prepare yourself for a new job, but ensure you are receiving prerequisite training and education specific for your intended career. Do not enroll in a class, certification or training program until you have confirmed it is necessary for your desired career.
  
  
• Spend time networking. Those who succeed in their job search often have experience with networking. Those who successfully network, improve their chances of landing their dream job.
  
  
• Gain all the training and experience you can in your current career field before making a change. During a transition, work part time, volunteer, or work a temporary job in the career that interests you. You will get experience and meet contacts that can help you land a job.
  
  
• Find someone to mentor you. Since beginning a new career is very difficult, a mentor can motivate you, provide you with assistance and guidance, and help you stay on track as you find a new career.
  
  
• Be flexible during your search. Changing careers is comparable to starting over. More than likely you will not be as skilled and qualified as those currently working in the industry that interests you, so you will probably lack the knowledge and skills related to it. You will often be required to make compromises related to salary, job location, and the position you begin in.