Career Change Tips: The Planning Stage

Heather Johnson returns to share advice on planning for a career change. When you’re miserable in your current career and know that you’re ready for a change, make sure you’ve done your research and diligent planning. Best wishes, Kim Isaacs
If you’re contemplating a career change, you know that marketing and re-packaging yourself for a new goal can be daunting. Shifting careers makes looking for a job in your current field seem like a walk in the park. If you’re ready for a major change, consider these tips to make the process is as painless as possible:
Have a plan. If you’re currently employed, stay in your current job and map out your career change plan. A career change brings about changes in many aspects of your life, including your financial situation and family relationships. Determine what you need to do to make a smooth transition before doing anything else. If you’re unsure about how to approach your career change, seek the advice of a professional career coach or read books on how to shift careers. The more prepared you are, the more successful you will be.

Do it for the right reasons. Make sure you’re not just reacting to a bad stretch in your current job. Maybe your boss is making you miserable so it seems like an extreme change is in order, but perhaps you would be happy in a new job in your field with a new boss. When you change careers, you will be in a foreign work environment when you first start. Your job satisfaction will infiltrate every aspect of your life, so make sure this is the right move before going full steam ahead.
Take money out of the equation. Sounds easier said than done, right? Well, if you’re focused on the money, consider what the new career will mean to your quality of life. What kind of people work in this new field? What kind of hours does it demand? What kind of education do you need? Forget the dollar signs for a moment, and consider your future happiness.
Focus on your own path. Just because your friend made a smooth transition to this field doesn’t mean you can follow suit. It’s natural to compare yourself to others, but just because others have succeeded in a certain career doesn’t translate to your personal success. This is your path and your decision.
Refine your skills. Take a few courses to freshen your skills before you take the plunge. Practice skills required for your new field as much as possible, even if it means volunteering your services to charities or local businesses. Building your skills will give you renewed confidence, and improve your chances for success.