With so many career opportunities available in a variety of different fields, it can be extremely overwhelming and confusing to decide what to do when you’re looking to change careers.
Below are some useful tips that will help you avoid the sea of overwhelm and make the best career change choice for you.
1. Identify Your Preferred Method of Work
Do you prefer working on your own, or do you enjoy being able to collaborate with others regularly? Figuring out your preferred method of work and the type of work environment that best suits your personality can point you in the right direction as to what your next career move should be.
2. Use Self-Assessment Tools
Before taking the big leap of switching careers, take some time to get to know yourself better. By taking personality quizzes and using different self-assessment tools, you can learn more about your personality and work preferences. Use what you discover to make a career choice you’ll love and thrive in.
3. Know Your Strengths
Think about what you’re really good at. Look at your natural talents and the skills you’ve acquired over the years, whether through jobs or hobbies. Then figure out which strengths you truly enjoy and find a career where you can incorporate them.
4. Determine Financial Goals
While career moves should not be made solely for financial purposes, knowing what your financial goals are is important in helping you select the most feasible options. Determine a salary range, with the low end being the lowest amount you can make and the high end being your ideal, yet still a reasonable, amount.
5. Look at Hiring Trends
Another great way to make a smart career change choice is to look at hiring trends. See what professions are in demand in your area and what job opportunities are available. Based on your research, you just might discover your perfect career!
For example, CDL jobs are in demand all across the country right now and, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers is projected to grow 5 percent through 2014. As the economy grows, the demand for goods will increase and more truck drivers will be needed to keep supply chains moving.