Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Changing Careers in Uncertain Times

By Ed Murranio

All of us, in one way or another, get fed up with the routines that our jobs give us and we would like to try a newer field. Some people feel the need to have a fresher look on one's skills and abilities; therefore, they feel the need for a sudden career shift. However, a career shift is not for everyone.

One should closely evaluate the choices that he will make regarding the changes of jobs and careers that he will make before making the big decision. For those of you who are quite doubtful about what to do, here are some tips that you might want to consider before taking the plunge in a career shift.[I:0:J]

Point out your priorities: Your priorities are your main reference point not only for your jobs and careers, but also for your life itself. Re-evaluate what you really want to do in your own life. Do you want a job that will enable you to use the skills that you are good at?

How well does the job pay? This is always a bottom line judgement. Take a note of everything that you want to achieve for yourself and family and take heed of their advice. Friends and family have a habit of seeing the good or bad in your decisions.

What are your skills: You are the best person to evaluate what you are good or not so good at for that matter. Write down all the skills you have accumulated in your working life. Epically look out for skills that you may not rate, but you new employer may think important

What were the things that your previous company has developed in you? Do you think that you will be able to use these skills in your new job once you get one? If not, then there is a need for you to further develop these skills in order for you to be ready for the next job that you are going to embark in.

Where you want to go: Once you have examined your skills and capabilities, you can start to evaluate what path you really want to take. Why do you really want to take a new job? Did the current one not provide you with enough opportunity to grow in your career?

Do you want to have an entirely new job that does not have any similarity with the one that you had before? These are very important things to consider so as you would not feel aimless once you get out of your previous work.

Research your dream job If you want to switch jobs and careers, then you have to have a clear idea of what job you should be in. Always research new jobs and evaluate yourself as to what changes are needed to satisfy your career. Knowing about the jobs and careers that you would like to be in will provide you with a good idea on where you would be in the next few years.

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