In today’s economy, there seem to be many people considering a career change, either because their job is just not that stable, or perhaps they have been forced into a move they have been thinking about for some time. This is an opportunity to explore avenues you have been considering but just haven’t had a chance to examine further.

Before beginning a new career, it is important to consider several things. First of all, consider why it is you want to change career paths. Are you sick of your boss? Have layoffs left you unemployed and unsure where to turn? Is this something you have thought about for a long time but the timing hasn’t been quite right? Take a close look at your reasons to make a change, and try to identify whether these are issues that can actually be solved with a career change. It may be that you are just bored with your life, but a career change is not necessarily what you need.

Secondly, determine what path you wish to take when undertaking a job search in a new avenue. Do you have a certain skill that you believe is marketable and would make you successful? Do you have a passion that you have always wished to pursue? Do some research in these fields to ensure you have educational and/or experiential requirements to actually land a job. If you are missing something, you may have to consider taking some courses to help expand your resume. This may take time, and may also cost money, so you may have to save to ensure that your family is not suffering when it comes time to make the change. By talking to people in the industry you hope to pursue, you can gain a better understanding of what is expected in the field, as well as what to realistically expect when you do make the change. Career counselors can also assist in this regard, and RDG Careers is available to assist you with available information to make you more marketable to this new job field.

Thirdly, consider how the change may impact your life. Do you know what the salary expectations are? If there is a pay cut involved, is it worthwhile for the satisfaction of the job you are about to pursue? Are you prepared to go back to the bottom of the seniority ladder?

Lastly, determine when you are going to make the change. If you have prepared as much as possible and feel that you are ready to switch careers, decide how you will do this. Will you quit your current job first before you begin your search? Ensure you have the finances in place to carry you through a potential drought. Will you continue to work while you seek new employment? Decide whether your current employer understands enough to be privy to this information, or prepare yourself for some difficulty in your search as you attempt to juggle continuing to work as well as searching for a new job. Regardless of how you choose to conduct your job search, be prepared for some disappointments. Try not to get discouraged; if this is what you really want for your career, be patient. Continue to expand your resume to the best of your ability, and consult all available resources to assist you in this regard.

Good luck with the career change, and remember that RDG Careers is available at 350 Bay Street Level 9, or by phone at 1 -866-870-WORK, to assist you with your career move.