Are You Ready For A Better Career?

The economy is still in a stew, and people are clinging desperately to the incomes that they have. Unfortunately, bad things happen, but we can learn to make the best of them. If you've been stuck in a job you hated, one that ate up your family time or where you were undervalued, being liberated is the perfect time to explore new career options.

Perhaps you've wanted to move into a new area of your chosen field, or a new field altogether. Talking with a professional recruiter is an excellent way to gauge what the market needs, so that you can choose your new career with full knowledge of your prospects.

For example, someone who has always seen themselves in a caring profession might want to embark on a new career in caring for the elderly, which is still a growth market right now, due to an ageing population. Someone who wants to move to a computer-related job may want to consider security, given the hacking scandals we've seen in recent years, instead of graphic design, which churns out a glut of graduates every year and is a nearly saturated market.

In addition to talking to recruiters, get to know people in the field you're drawn to. Many times there are opportunities to apprentice and learn the job hands on - and some apprenticeships are paid! Such opportunities are also an excellent way to find out if your new career choice is really for you.

Even if you don't lose your current position, exploring courses or workshops in an area that interests you is something you can do now, with the luxury of keeping your income. Learning is something we should never stop doing, so enroll in an evening class or a weekend event where you will meet like-minded people. Networking is key when breaking into a new career, so meet as many people as you can in the field!

Beyond educating yourself and sending out resumes and applications, the number one tip for looking into a new career is to keep an open mind. You may begin down one path of exploration only to find yourself fascinated with another area that you hadn't considered. Good economy or bad, be open to the opportunities to learn and grow that present themselves every day. When you find the right fit - when you feel that click - you'll know you're ready.

By Louise C Collins