From
GameDaily.biz* Be sure of your reasons. Just because you're unhappy in your current job isn't a strong enough reason to make a total career break. Carefully analyze whether it is your actual career you dislike or whether your employer, supervisor, or office situation is the problem.
* Wait for the right time. The best time to consider a new career is when you are safely ensconced in your existing position. It goes without saying that a steady paycheck can relieve a lot of pressure. There are many ways to take steps toward your new career path; you can volunteer or offer yourself as a freelancer or consultant. This can help you to "test the waters" in your desired new field.
* Do your research. Be sure to examine all possibilities before attempting a career jump. Talk to people in your network, read career and job profiles, meet with a career management professional. The more information with which you arm yourself beforehand, the more successful you will be.
* Have a clear plan. The smartest move you can make is to carefully map out an effective career-change strategy. This should include a detailed action plan that takes into consideration finances, research, education, and training. Keep in mind that a successful career change can take several months or longer to accomplish, so patience is key.
* Decide what's important. This is the best time for thoughtful self-reflection. Ask yourself what it is you really want to do with the rest of your life. Take an honest inventory of your likes and dislikes, and evaluate your skills, values, and personal interests. You may want to consider consulting a career coach or taking a career assessment test.
* Examine your qualifications. Do you have the necessary experience and education to be considered a qualified candidate in your desired career field? If not, you need to find a way to bridge the credentials gap. This might mean making your goal more long-term while you go back to school or receive additional training.
* Learn about the industry. Get a feel for the field that interests you. Read industry journals, attend conferences, and talk to people in the profession about what they do. Learn whether your target industry has growth potential. Trade magazines, organizations, and entrepreneurs have created a slew of Web sites with searchable databases where job openings in many industries are listed. Start looking at these sites on a regular basis.
* Develop your network. Begin nurturing professional friendships early and tend them regularly. Professional organizations and job industry trade associations are a good place to start. Many of them hold networking events and job fairs.
* Update your job search skills. It is especially important to polish up your job-hunting skills and techniques before you get out and start networking. Make sure you are using your time and resources as effectively as possible.
* Pay your dues. Don't expect to begin at the same level of seniority in your new career that you held in your old one. It will take time to move up the ranks, but if you find a new career you absolutely love, it will be worth it!
