Changing careers is a big step and it is often scary. You’ve spent so much time and money on getting necessary qualifications and working tirelessly at your job and hence throwing it all away to start back from square one is terrifying. Would you ever land a job, would you ever be successful in that new career, is it actually what you want etc. can be some daring questions and doubts you will have before you take the big decision. Rather than making hasty decisions, here are some factors to consider before changing careers.
Think about your interests
What excites you? What do you want to do in life? These are quite vague questions that can confuse you even more. You might conclude that you actually don’t know what to do in life. This is quite common among many people, you’re not alone!
However, take a step back and think of the little things you enjoy doing. Do you like to sing, dance or travel? Has your mother always told you you’re great at sewing? Do you like helping people? Think along the lines of this and list down a few of your interests. Choosing a career to go according to your interests will make you enjoy your job.
Evaluate your abilities and talents
It’s not just about what you’re good at but about all other background capabilities you possess to make it great. For example, let’s say you’re a brilliant artist and plan on starting your own design studio. Think about your other skills that are needed to run a business such as time management, people management, good networking skills, multitasking abilities etc.
These will all help in any venture you start and are extremely vital. If you’re planning on working on community development projects, are you prepared to do the real dirty work on ground level? Can you travel afar to join rural projects? All these supporting skills matter.
Check any academic qualifications you need to possess
You might be required to have some basic academic qualifications and certifications to start on your new selected career. You can join them while you are at your current job so that you still have an income method to pay for them. Let’s say enjoy helping people and so you plan on becoming a nurse. Check out part time nursing courses Melbourne in which you can participate on the weekends and after work hours. You’ll learn to manage work and academics well.
Analyse the future projection
The career you choose won’t be just for the present but for the future as well. You’ll be spending most of your time in your job so better make it worthwhile. Always look into future advancements in your career so that the new qualifications you’re studying for can also be of better use.
Research on growing industries and job markets of the future; what jobs will go extinct, what will be the booming industries etc. For example, if you’re studying technology, learn about artificial intelligence or big data as these are the future of that field.