ajcjobs > BlogBreak > Archives > 2008 > January > 04 > Entry
Navigating career changes
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
In today’s job market, career change is an inevitable part of career advancement. Most people will end up changing jobs within their chosen profession multiple times throughout their careers. Others will make the jump from one career field to another as they gain more experience and discover new interests. Technology may change, but the basic truths of career transition still hold true.
Stay in control of the changes you will face as you move through your career by mastering the following:
KNOW WHAT YOU’RE WORTH - Research updated salary information in your chosen profession with on-line resources such as www.salary.com and the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics: http://www.bls.gov/bls/blswage.htm
UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU WANT - Do you want to do the same kind of work, just at another company? Do you want to change your job function, but stay in the same general industry? Or do you want to keep your job function, but gain experience in another industry? If you want to do both, are you prepared to go back to school or take a transition job? Until you know the answer to those questions, you’re not prepared to begin a job search.
NETWORK NOW FOR THE JOB YOU WANT TOMORROW - Going to a networking event and expecting to walk out with a job lead is like walking into the gym and expecting to loose five pounds while you’re there. You have to actively cultivate real relationships with your networking contacts. This takes time and a genuine interest in helping others grow. People must trust you before they’re willing to help you.
CONDUCT INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEWS - If you’re thinking of changing to a new profession entirely, it can be extremely helpful to talk to someone who is currently working in that field. Ask the people close to you if they know anyone who has experience in your area of interest, then request an introduction. An informal chat with an industry insider over a cup of coffee can help you determine whether or not you want to pursue that particular career path.
DON’T ASSUME - People change careers at all stages of their professional life. Don’t assume that you’re too old. Don’t assume that you can’t afford to go back to school. Don’t assume that you can’t master something. Life is about choices. At the end of the day, we create our own limitations.
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