Finding a job that you love and cherish is crucial, but switching a career is not easy - Here are 7 steps that can make the entire process easy and manageable
Let’s be frank - every job has its highs and lows. No career path is an easy walk in the park. But, if you really hate your job, it might be high time for a change, or perhaps a career switch.
If this sounds like you, this article is for you. We’re going to walk you through 7 tried and true steps you need to take to find the career you love and bag the job of your dream.
First Things First: Is It Really Time to Switch?
● You are always bored, exhausted and depleted of energy at work
● Your current job is a mere means of putting food on the table.
● You have no career goals at all
● Your job responsibilities don’t fit you at all
If any or all of these describe you, a career/job change is long overdue for you.
Step 1. Take Stock of the Satisfaction at your Current Job
Yes, you’re super tired of your current job. That’s abundantly clear, but there must be something that you like about it. That’s why it pays to jot down all your dislikes and likes about your current job. What’s so bad about it that you’re gravely dissatisfied? Is it the people, the culture or the workplace environment? Better yet, is it your job duties? Do you feel that you’re not making an impact at all?
At this point, it’s all about getting to the root of your job dissatisfaction. This way, you’ll make a switch based on an informed decision - not just running away from your current post.
Step 2. Evaluate your Core Skills, Values, and Interests
Take a small walk down memory lane. Review your past successful jobs, projects, roles, and even volunteer work to zero in on your core values, skills and interests.
Step 3. Think Alternative Career Options
Imagine your dream career, a path that’ll align with your core interests, skills, and values. Start off by researching your career alternatives, then brainstorming ideas with your loved ones - spouse, relatives, friends or trusted contact.
Step 4. Consider your Job Options
Do thorough research on jobs that’ll fit your target career profile. Google, ask, call, and whatnot - just make sure to find lots of relevant job information.
Step 5. Keep it Personal
By now, you should have a list of 5 potential alternative job options. Get in touch with personal contacts who have firsthand experience in your target fields. It’s paramount to get as much information and insights as possible from real people.
Step 6. It’s Time for Job Shadowing
Shadow a professional or two in your target field for a few hours per day, two or three days a week.
Step 7. Update your Knowledge and Skills
It’s time to enroll for a class and perhaps take up an internship to cultivate your skills. You must be versatile enough to get up to speed in your new career in the shortest time possible.
Changing a job, let alone a career, can be quite scary, if not downright daunting. It pays to take it in small strides and be prepared, as your life coach I can work with you through each step. Let's talk soon.