Before you think about beginning a new career, it is important to count all the costs to avoid any regrets. Jumping directly into the job market is not a smart move. A major shift requires ample preparation.
To help you in the process, here are some tips to consider:
Evaluate Your Training
Analyze the training you’ve had — it can give you ideas for career choices that you may not have considered. Perhaps you’ve had some training related to an industry you’re interested in. Let your ideas flow. Write them down for reference.
Get to Know Yourself
Think about the jobs and other duties you have had in the past and figure out what skills or aspects you really enjoyed. Were you good at a certain type of training? How do you like working at a desk? Are you a good team leader?
Find Jobs that Fit
Now that you have a list of your skill sets, find a job that matches your style and talent. You can use different job search engines and filter the results with the preferences you insert. This is an easier way to get an idea of what kinds of jobs will fit your personality and skills.
Evaluate Your Match
Now that you have certain jobs in mind, how do your skill sets score? Do they match with what the company needs? What would you need to do in order to meet all the requirements needed? Consider your certifications, education, training and experience.
Check the Job Market
Research as much as you can about each job title you have chosen. Digging a bit deeper gives you more information about trade and professional associations, employers, and their pay.
Pick the Winners
Now that you have narrowed down your choices, pick at least three that are most interesting to you. Again, match your skills to what the job requires to be sure that you’re able to apply.
If you think you’re lacking skills, you can enroll in different training programs offered in your chosen field. There are various online schools that can help if you need specific additional education or technical training.
Use Your Network
Learn more about your options by growing and getting to know your network. You can attend events as well as join different groups online. Learn all you can. Feel free to ask questions. Doing this gives you inside information about the companies you most want to work for.
These steps can help you prepare for your new career. For a more secure start, invest time and effort in looking for a stable job, rather than drawing up a plan that could result in multiple job changes over a short period of time.