Have you started to feel a sense of dread on a Sunday night as you wait for the working week to start over again? Perhaps you struggle through the week with only the thought of the weekend keeping you going? Many people feel dissatisfied with their careers and no longer find enjoyment in their work. But, realizing this and doing something about it are two very different things. If you have now decided you no longer want to work in a job you do not enjoy, a career change may seem like the logical next step. However, giving up a job and trying something entirely new can feel like an overwhelming prospect. Here are some tips to help you successfully manage a career change:
Assess Your Current Position
Many people hope to leave their current jobs in the hope of finding a role that makes them feel fulfilled and is meaningful to them. So, when making a career change, it is helpful to assess your current job to understand why it does not fulfill you, and which aspects of it you like and those you dislike. Doing this should help make it easier for you to understand your skill set and the type of role that appeals to you most. Assessing your likes and dislikes also enables you to avoid ending up in another position that does not suit your personality and instead, makes you feel fulfilled.
Start Making Changes
While quitting your job without having a backup is rarely a good idea, it is essential that you do not get stuck in a state of inertia. Many people desire to follow their career dreams, but the years end up passing by without them taking action. It is helpful to take small steps each day toward making your career change a reality to prevent this. You could start by researching job opportunities in your favored field and the qualifications and experience you need to apply for these positions.
Develop Your Knowledge and Skills
Once you understand which skills you need to be able to pursue your chosen career, it is time to start researching how you will gain the qualifications and knowledge required. Looking at the courses offered at colleges such as https://www.rockfordcareercollege.edu is an excellent place to start your research and find a degree program that provides you with the qualification you need.
A lack of experience can often stand in the way of a career change, so working on this before you start applying for your new role is a good idea. An internship may not be feasible if you have bills to pay and financial commitments, so continuing to work your current job is advisable. To get around this issue, you may be able to find volunteer opportunities in your local area that allow you to develop the skills you need. Volunteering for a charity role carrying out a relevant role can help boost your knowledge and makes a helpful addition to your résume.
Image by Gerd Altmann
