When the time is right to change your career path, you’ll know it.
A nagging feeling will grab you from the inside, one that seems like boredom or frustration with your current job, but runs much deeper. This is not your average drag-your-feet-in-the-morning type of feeling. It has to do with big choices, life-long dreams and the routines of daily life. This is about happiness.
Change isn’t easy. In fact, it can be downright terrifying. That’s why I’ll never tell you to drop everything and dive head-first into a new career. I will say, however, that today is the perfect day to imagine your way out of a bad job situation, and into something that makes you smile.
Here are some of the important steps:
Let passion change your life. Maybe you are a teacher at heart, but have been working in health care for many years. Or perhaps you have a passion for sports but never practiced it as a career; instead you took up finance, sales or another admirable trade that just doesn’t motivate you on a daily basis.
What excites you? What is that nagging feeling trying to tell you? This is your life we’re talking about, your time and your potential. Don’t be afraid to ask yourself questions that can lead to change.
Gain experience and credentials. Knowledge is power, as they say, so learn as much as you can about an industry or job that intrigues you.
Some fields are open to everyone, while others require special training or experience. If you want to change your career, take steps in the new direction. Find out what you need to do, and do it.
Position yourself for success. Your resume and cover letter will help make an impact in your new vocation, so use them to your advantage.
Highlight your most relevant qualifications and give examples of your transferable skills. As a career changer, enthusiasm is one of your primary selling points. Passion can breathe new life into an organization, so don’t hesitate to come right out and say it in your letter.
Don’t let fear scare you. If you aren’t ready to start from scratch, see if you can integrate the things you love into your daily routine. Find projects that stimulate you. Learn a new skill. Take on a volunteer job. The more you follow your dreams, the happier you will be.
Take the risk. Many people are insecure about their lack of experience when they enter a new field. Don’t be!
If the time is right for you to switch to a new profession, know what your strengths are, and present them with confidence.
Whether you are transferring from finance to advertising, starting a consulting business, or returning to the work force after several years of retirement, your background and personal attributes are absolutely unique. Keep this in mind as you begin job hunting, and use it to increase your enthusiasm and fuel your passion as you move forward on your career path.
Remember that change takes courage, and job searching takes determination. Prepare yourself for the adventure, position yourself for success and get ready to launch your new career.
Eve Nicholas has written resume materials and offered no-nonsense advice to thousands of job seekers. She can be reached at Eve.GetAJob@gmail.com.
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