Career changes are becoming increasingly common these days, and are happening for a wide variety of reasons, ranging from the poor economy, certain industries shrinking and personal dissatisfaction with their current filed of work. Before, we have talked about how to go about changing careers, but here we will be determining whether you should. This decision will require more than a bit of research and introspection, and you should definitely do that before you put in your two weeks notice. So here are the important questions you need to ask yourself before the decision gets made, courtesy of Jacquelyn Smith of Forbes.
1. "What do you want?" Knowing is half the battle with career changes. Always keep a clear objective in mind. If your current line of work isn't fulfilling that objective, than you can start looking elsewhere. Smith also draws up the important and often overlooked distinction of "whether it's the job you don't like--or your career."
2. "Will I be happier in this career?" Of course, all of your effort won't have achieved anything at all if you still have problems in your new job/field. "There's no way to know for sure if you'll be happier in another career--but do what you can to test drive the new profession," says Smith. This can be achieved through internships and volunteer work.
3. "Am I willing to start over?" You also need to consider the fact that you could very well be starting from the bottom again, and whether or not you are willing to make another ladder climb that could last anywhere from five to 10 years. Smith cites business veteran and author Andy Teach, who believes this need not be a bad thing. "This may be a blow to your ego and to your wallet but if it's truly a change that will make you happy, then go for it," he says.
4. "Is this the right time to make a career change?" The timing of your decision can also be critical, as these sort of changes don't happen over night. As Smith says "Is your current position stable? Are there issues at work that would hasten your departure? Do you need time to master additional necessary skills, gain the education, certifications, or licenses needed in your desired new career?" Think about all of that before coming to a decision.
Looking to find jobs in Portland? Visit our site.
1. "What do you want?" Knowing is half the battle with career changes. Always keep a clear objective in mind. If your current line of work isn't fulfilling that objective, than you can start looking elsewhere. Smith also draws up the important and often overlooked distinction of "whether it's the job you don't like--or your career."
2. "Will I be happier in this career?" Of course, all of your effort won't have achieved anything at all if you still have problems in your new job/field. "There's no way to know for sure if you'll be happier in another career--but do what you can to test drive the new profession," says Smith. This can be achieved through internships and volunteer work.
3. "Am I willing to start over?" You also need to consider the fact that you could very well be starting from the bottom again, and whether or not you are willing to make another ladder climb that could last anywhere from five to 10 years. Smith cites business veteran and author Andy Teach, who believes this need not be a bad thing. "This may be a blow to your ego and to your wallet but if it's truly a change that will make you happy, then go for it," he says.
4. "Is this the right time to make a career change?" The timing of your decision can also be critical, as these sort of changes don't happen over night. As Smith says "Is your current position stable? Are there issues at work that would hasten your departure? Do you need time to master additional necessary skills, gain the education, certifications, or licenses needed in your desired new career?" Think about all of that before coming to a decision.
Looking to find jobs in Portland? Visit our site.
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