A complete career switch may sound daunting to you but in fact, the number of working adults that are changing career paths is increasing at an astonishing rate. On the average, the worker will experience three career switches throughout their entire working life, and there are indications that this figure is likely to increase further with globalization.
Why A Career Change?
Basically, there are several key causes that can lead you to consider changing career paths and they are not limited to:
1) Feeling miserable at current job
2) Lack of career advancement opportunity
3) Existing career path is no longer aligned with your enhanced skills or interest
Which Career Path to Choose?
Once you have made up your mind to proceed with an entire career switch, the next course of action is to decide which new career to pursue.
A simple method is to brainstorm a list of ideal jobs that coincide with your interests. Then cross out those jobs that are unrealistic based on the number of openings available, your existing qualification and experience (unless you intend to put in efforts in attaining them) as well as lifelong goals.
If you are unsure of your new choice of career path, a good way to test water is by engaging in temporary/part-time or volunteer work in that field, to see if you really like it before going in full-time.
What to Expect?
Changing career paths is not so simple. Be prepared to spend some time on it. Firstly, you have to determine what new skill set to attain as well as how existing abilities can contribute to the new job. Next, you will need to work on a fresh effective resume that is customized to the new field of work. In the short term, you will also need to be mentally prepared to take up a lower position or lesser pay, and reflect this willingness to your potential employers if your abilities are lacking in the new field.
It is unlikely a person can lead a happy life while being trapped in an unhappy, boring or stagnant career. Biting the bullet may be painful, but it can be very rewarding for those who found their true calling.
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