Changing Career
Information on changing career is all around us.
But, it can be a dramatic step and one of the best bits of advice is to prepare a professional and personal profile, even if you don’t want to move at the present time.
And don’t make the mistake of making vital decisions on Monday mornings. Things can look their bleakest then; wait until you are relaxed and thinking straight.
It also pays to be a bit self critical. Thoughts about changing career can underline many other pressures and issues that might be occurring in your life, including key relationships, or family issues.
Of course, a career change might be forced upon you, especially as the job market is entering a critical phase with companies downsizing due to the economic woes around the world.
So, no matter how happy you might be in your current career, when you have a few spare minutes, write yourself a profile.
Start by taking a look at your strengths and weaknesses. And be honest. Why does your company keep you on; what do you bring to the party?
Then have a look at what your current job offers you. Does your company stretch you enough, does the work you do excite you, or do you merely turn-up because it’s the only thing going and you have to get the money?
If your current employer is not fully exploiting your talents, then it’s time to find one that does. Don’t forget, that employment is a two-way deal. They have to offer you an incentive to go to work everyday; it’s not all a one-way street.
So, once you’ve taken a long, cold hard look at your job, consider the real you. What interests you; what drives you forward; and, what excites you? And why are you thinking of changing career?
With your personal profile on hand, embodying not only the professional you, but the personal you, have a look around at what other careers excite you. And don’t start by looking at the salary, the locations, or the similarities to what you’ve done before. Start by thinking outside the box; what would you ideally like to do as a career.
That’s the starting point, the inevitable compromises that come with changing career can come later.