The recession has been tough on all of us, even those who remember back to the 1983 when the unemployment rate was as low as it is today. But one of the things about the current economic crisis is it gives everyone a chance to re-evaluate their careers and their priorities. A recent CIO article outlines seven dos and don’ts for career change, including advice from our own Kim Batson, the CIO’s Coach, who frequently helps out on Ask the Coach. So here, I want to share these insights for career changers:
1. School is out. A lot of executives decide to retreat to academia. Okay, education is valuable, but the rush for that next degree may feel like progress, but are you really moving forward? Find out how marketable your degree is before you pursue more credentials.
2. What do you want? Big question, but critical to any career move. Determine what you really want from your next job before you make the move. (Thanks, Kim.)
3. It’s all about the work. Find work you like to do, which means zeroing in on what you really want to do. Do real critical research on your next profession and find ways to test drive the job to make sure it’s a fit.
4. Passion is not the same as riches. Following your dream is not the same as following the money. Do your homework to make sure your new career generates enough cash to sustain your lifestyle.
5. There is no quick change. Changing careers is harder than finding a job according to Kim Batson. You need to be patient, both with yourself and with the process. Start by tracking other professionals in the field you are considering. Use Twitter and LinkedIn to track fields that interest you.
6. Step by step. Don’t try to make a wholesale career change overnight. Consider incremental changes. Try projects or smaller steps to reach your long-term goal.
7. Don’t mourn your last job. You may have lost a job you loved through a layoff or some other unforeseen circumstance. If you are looking at a forced career change, embrace it. Remember that you were able to land your last job, and you will be able to find a new job in your chosen field. If you were happy in your last job, you can be happy in your next.
