Ways to Start a New Career

A career change is exciting, but it could be worrisome. A vision and system for beginning a new career can make it easier and effective. If you take some time at the start to discover what you really need to do in your work life, you can then explore possibilities and move forward.

Whether you're bored of your present work and just want something different, or you have a particular career in mind, an organized approach will serve you well. Whether you desire an entry-level job or an entirely new profession, these measures will help.

Make a list of everything you like doing and what you do best. They are usually the exact things. Do not think about tasks yet, consider your abilities and interests.

List all of the things you like to do, including what you believe doesn't make money.

Think about what other folks tell you on your own. If friends say you're good at identifying birds, for example, place that on the listing.

Create a list of the abilities and abilities those activities require -- identifying birds requires monitoring skills and attention to detail, as an example.

List your training and expertise. Volunteering counts. If you know a little bit about lots of things, list all of them.

Now consider jobs. What jobs require your talents?

Try terms in like job skills, career skills, skills evaluation , and whatever else comes to mind.

Narrow the list to some possible professions -- no longer than three or four. Keep changing your list until you feel confident that you would love work in these fields and that you'd do it nicely. Then narrow your choices to a single career and concentrate entirely on that one.

Learn everything you can about your chosen brand new career.

Visit your neighborhood library. Reference librarians are excellent at assisting you to find information.

Check with your local government employment office to find out about job possibilities on your new career. Ask about training programs, also.

Bear in mind, you're not asking for a job, you're learning about the career itself. What's it really like?

If there's a union, ask the local office for advice.

It'll be well worth the time in the long term. When you're sure about the career path you want, proceed to another step.

Keep your old job.

Strange but true: you're more likely to be hired if you're already employed. Consider taking a lower-level job on your new area to learn what you will need to advance.

Do you want more training? Learn about specific coaching and what job placement services they provide. While still employed ask about courses you can take. Nighttime and weekend programs are usually offered. Make sure you have a doorbell camera to monitor what you love while you are away. No training or classes locally? Contact the human resources departments in businesses which hire on your new career and inquire about on-the-job training. It will not be a job interview, but treat it like you. Put your best foot forward, dress appropriately, take a resume, have questions ready, discuss your skills and expertise. Join professional organization or a union. There are organizations for individuals in virtually any career. Whenever you have the skills and training that you need, polish your resume and start your job hunt.