If you’ve hit a plateau in your current job or career, the summer months can be an excellent time for a re-evaluation. Earlier this year, a large survey reported that 80% of American workers wanted to change jobs and statistics show that employees will have 4-6 completely different careers in their working life! Not jobs – different careers. In my career coaching practice, I have recognized five indicators why people change careers:
1.The Passion is Gone
You dread getting up for work in the morning. Or perhaps your job is leaving you unfulfilled, and you know there is something better out there.
2.You’re Not Progressing
You’ve worked hard for years, but you’re not getting recognized or promoted.
3.You’re Day Dreaming at Work
You find your thoughts wandering, wondering what else is out there.
4.You’re Industry is Retracting
You’re in a career that is not growing, such as Architecture, and you need to change for economic reasons.
5.Your Talents are Being Underutilized
You are more capable than your current role allows.
Staying in a boring or disappointing career can cause a great deal of personal unhappiness. However, the grass is not always greener, as the saying goes. So before you leap, explore:
A New Position in the Same Industry
If your company is large enough, perhaps there’s a good fit for you in a different department or a new company/organization.
A Career in an Adjacent Industry
If your career sector is experiencing limited job growth, explore a new career which is related.
If it is time to explore a new career however, here are few things to consider.
Challenges
One challenge for professional woman is the struggle between what you really want to do (if known), your “dream job,” and the realities of financial/family obligations. Before you make any sudden moves, research potential new career paths and their job growth projections with the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Changing careers is intimidating, so verify that your new career field is positioned to grow before you jump!
Assess Your Career Toolkit
A new career path may require new skills and the summer months are a good time to enroll in classes at a community college, as they offer shorter schedules including weeknight and weekend classses. You can check out university extension programs, where you can often complete a certificate or degree in 2 years or less. Also, many universities conveniently offer a variety of curriculum’s online.
Changing careers can be a daunting endeavor. Success can be yours however, with due diligence, careful research, and a strategic plan. There’s no time like the present!
