Changing Careers
A How to Guide
Considering A Change: Exploring Your Options
- If you like your job, but not the employer or company itself, you may want to consider having the same job but for another company.
- If you have decided that you just don't like what you are doing, you can consider a new job in a new company.
- Your last choice is to completely start over. For example turning a hobby into a career.
Once you have decided which of these three paths you are wanting to take it is important to do research to get an idea about different careers. Harvard Extension Hub suggests talking to people who are in the type of careers you are interested. It also suggests going to seminars, workshops, conferences, etc. that may help you get a feel for the career. When researching it is important to use good sources, a great source for job searches is The Occupational Outlook Handbook. Once you have some careers in mind, it may be helpful to think about the job skills you already have to determine if it is something you would already know how to do or easily learn and put your skills to good use.
Developing a Plan: Mapping your Moves
Making the Change: Burning No Bridges
According to Careerealism one thing you can do to keep from burning bridges with your employer and the company is to thank everyone for the opportunities you have been given at this job. It is also extremely important to turn in a formal resignation letter and give your employer notice that you are leaving (it varies how much notice they will need often around a two week notice, some may require more, some less). Another thing you should do before leaving is making sure you work hard. Do not leave the job slacking off just because you are leaving soon.
Beginning the New Journey: Showcasing Your Experience
One way to showcase your experience is to make sure you put your best effort into everything you new employer asks you to do. You do not want to slack off, especially in the beginning, this will keep you from impressing your employer.
In the Forbes article it also suggests putting in extra hours. If you spend extra time working instead of getting to work at the latest time possible and leaving the earliest you can, it will show to your employer that you are a dedicated worker. Putting in extra hours can show that you are not trying to do the bare minimum with this job.