Career Profile Paper

Page 1/34

How to Build a Portfolio*

144 Jobs with Portfolio Items

581 Possible Portfolio Items

101 Questions and Answers

about

Career Change

Written by the Participants At the International Career

Development Conference in Irvine, California

November 2002

Page 2/34

1. Are there different ways to make career changes?

Understanding who you are, what values are important to you and what skills you have are the initial starting places for making a career change. Finding this understanding can be a very different journey for each individual. This can be done solo as a self-initiated search or one facilitated by another, or within a group.

Career changes can be by choice or forced by a certain circumstance or environment. Coming to terms with the motivation will help determine how the change will be made. Seeking help from the organization for which a person worked, looking for community resources, offered to both the individual or in groups, or paying someone to help with the search are options.

Changes can be made within the same field and within the same title or change of both title and field can be done. Understanding internal and external factors will help to decide which is the best, least fearful or most successful way to go.

2. Are there interviewers more open than others to ca- reer change?

To make them more open, convey confidence supported by specific examples of transfer- able skills in prior work settings.

To make them more open, quote former co-worker’s expressions of awe regarding key accomplishments out of your main field of work.

To make them more open, cite examples of flexibility, adaptability, and creative contribu- tions in prior work settings.

Page 3/34

3. Are there signs in my current job which tell me I should consider making a career change?

Yes. Consider your general mood and attitude as you start each workday. Does your mood drain your enthusiasm and negatively impact productivity? Consider “what” the problem is specifically. Is it the location, atmosphere, co-workers, boss, type of work, promotion opportunities, etc.? Is there anything to be done to make a positive impact? Do it. After making changes, monitor your mood - has it improved? If yes, look for other small changes you can make. If satisfied, stay. If not satisfied, look for other opportunities to make a career change. Develop a plan. Make the move.

Your boss or co-workers suddenly treat you differently.

You find no satisfaction from your work, despite a good salary.

4. Are there skills that are more transferable than oth- ers from one job to another?

Learn to ask questions and listen attentively to answers. Utilize whatever part of the infor- mation that is interesting and which can prove valuable to the job.

Develop supportive relationships to advise, critique and offer creative ideas.

Take action in establishing goals, timeframes, and results.

5. Are those who make a career change more ambi- tious than others?

Ambitious people who are looking for a new field often make a career change.

People who are interested in other fields often change careers, whether they are ambitious or not.

Not necessarily, some people just want to find a new position.

Page 4/34

6. By what other name do we call career change?

Transition is one name.

Finding a new job.

Volunteer work; when changing your work and using new skills but not getting paid to do it.

7. Can I anticipate a career change even though I do not have the relevant experience?

Yes, check current industry trends. Regardless of the outlook, develop three spin off careers that with a little retooling or retraining make sense to explore.

Yes, since most adults will make at least four career changes during their career. Consider the same job in a different industry or a different job in the same industry.

Yes, refine and re-define skills; look for ways to repackage skills.

8. Can the timing be off on a career change (too early or too late)?

Yes, a career change can be too early if the skills, education/experience and maturity of the person are not developed. The financial and logistical considerations must be carefully thought out.

Yes, it can be too late if a person has stayed in their field too long. Ageism is prevalent in today’s world and if a person has not kept up with technical changes, they will not be prepared. Salary, benefits, etc. may have to be sacrificed. The industry may have changed due to downturns if economics. There may be a general lack of opportunity,

No, a career change may take more time at certain economic crossroads but can still be accomplished with persistence and hard work.

Page 5/34

9. Do I define my new job by its title or by the tasks involved?

Assess the functions that you enjoyed performing. By combining them you will have a cluster of skills.

Use friends or family, who know your well, and show them the cluster. Ask each one for a potential career title.

Research each title to discover which has more of the tasks that you enjoy. Follow with research interviews and also research on the Internet.

10. Do my values play a role in my desire to make a ca- reer change?

Validate that your top five values will be met when making career move.

Do this by making a list of your top five values I.e. Creativity

Independence Location Flexibility

Conduct informational interviews or shadow people in the new proposed career field to research if indeed you own value requirements for your career change can be accommodated and honored.

11. Does a career change always bring with it a new lifestyle?

It opens new possibilities in new fields and therefore a lifestyle change can occur, depending on your definition of lifestyle.

Develop new skills and experience that can change the way you view life and the values you cherish.

Realistically, a career change does not always bring with it a new lifestyle. Lifestyles change as those things you hold in high regard change.

Page 6/34

12. Does a career change necessitate having written objectives and a concrete time line?

Yes, because writing the objectives provides criteria for the decision. Use a decision making tool that asks for a list of objectives. Then distinguish the musts from the wants and use a matrix to compare the objectives against three or four alternatives.

Writing objectives and timelines quantifies the goal. It moves a person toward a vision, without which there is no movement.

If a person writes down their objectives, they will be 93% more effective than someone who doesn’t write them down. A study with the Class of 1960 at Yale found that they had 7% more millionaires who all wrote down their goals.

13. Does a career change usually bring a change in sal- ary (either up or down)?

Yes, it can be down because there is a perception that there will be a learning curve which a company won’t be willing to pay for.

Yes, it can be up because the field/industry pays more.

Yes, it can be more because you are a good negotiator and you have positioned the impact you will bring to the job as warranting an increase in salary.

14. How can my new co-workers easily accept me after a change?

Demonstrate willingness to learn by active listening and following through on advice. People like people who are open to learning from them.

Ask co-workers questions about themselves. They enjoy talking about themselves. Give lots of compliments about their skills and abilities.

When describing a former position, frame it in the context that is transferable to the new job. Talk about the things you did by relating them to the new position.

Page 7/34

15. How can I be sure I am making the right choice?

Talk to a skilled career counselor who will guide you through a number of different ways to considering the upcoming change.

Try out the new kinds of work as a volunteer or by visiting a workplace of people who do what you want to do or by assisting someone in the job you want.

Talk to several people who do the job and can tell you if you would be a good match for it. Discuss what the work is like and how it does/does not fit with your personality.

16. How can I build my network to help me make a ca- reer change?

Communicate with people already working in that field. This can be done by informational interviewing, asking questions via email and websites of persons well known in the upper echelons of the field. Some will provide guidance and comments.

Join professional organizations and attend conferences,

Take courses through universities to increase specific skills and network with others in the same field – at all levels.

Be out there learning, asking, sharing and growing the size of your network.

17. How can I compensate for the lack of experience when I make a career change?

Show and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the new career with evidence that you have studied its parameters with passion,

Provide evidence that your education, basic skills and latent learning will easily make up for your lack of experience.

Demonstrate your imagination and the new ways that you can engage in the new career.

Page 8/34

18. How can I discourage someone from making a ca- reer change when it is obviously not the in their best interest?

Develop a comparison between their abilities, skills and talents and those required by the new career.

Ask them to confirm their interest in the new career by talking with people already in the field.

Research the requirements and experience needed to enter that career.

19. How can you lessen the negative impact of a future career change on a resume?

List similarity from the career that was left to the career that is being pursued. Confirm your past strengths that will carry forward to the new career.

Develop a logical explanation showing support of strengths from the previous career to the new one.

With enough positive support, the career change will be noted as good.

20. How do hobbies play a role or help people make ca- reer change?

As hobbies are the “passion” or the “interest” people have in their lives, they can provide direction to a compatible career.

The same skills required for a hobby may be the best skills of the person and the ones they enjoy utilizing.

A person may seek a job that provides self-sufficiency but allows time and energy for the hobby.

Page 9/34

21. How do I bring up my desire to change careers dur- ing an interview?

State that the desire to change careers reflects your best assets – courage and a willingness to suffer the pains of change in order to achieve the new goal.

Ask the interviewer about his or her career changes and then emphasize the commonality between you – the desire to grow, earn more, or whatever you recognize that you have in common.

Show the interviewer how the apparent “major leap” actually demonstrates a consistent interest – how you have always been attracted to or connected with a new kind of work, but were just not paid for it. Demonstrate the logical, natural progression of your choice.

22. How do I convince an employer who is reluctant to hire people who are making a career change?

Provide the skill data (behavioral) that shows transferable skills directly related to the job applied for.

Directly address the employer’s needs and job requirements with how your current skills will meet their needs.

Provide with information and examples how you have been able to learn new skills in past jobs and how you will be able to do it in the new job.

Focus upon the related job skills that are common to all jobs.

Directly ask the employer what their reluctance is and address it.

23. How do I deal with a career change on my resume?

Choose a functional rather than chronological format to highlight transferable skills rather than job titles.

List three or four broad categories of skills that the new employer is looking for.

Describe three or four accomplishments under each of the broad skill headings, taken from all your former jobs.

Page 10/34

24. How do I know if I have the potential to make a ca- reer change?

Interview individuals in the field you are considering moving to.

Review your skills and hobbies/interests and apply them to the new career.

Be positive, confident and know you can do it!

25. How do I react when my family objects to my planned career change?

Ask searching questions to better understand their point of view. Search out their feelings.

Present reason for you’re proposed change to help your family better understand your feelings.

Develop options as a family that might work for all involved. Sometimes compromises will have to be made.

26. How do I validate a career change?

Talk with a career counselor about your ideas/plans to make sure you really need/want to make a career change.

Interview someone with the job to get insight into the career and to see the kind of working environment it entails.

Investigate why you want to make a change to understand the reasons – both negative and positive – so you don’t make a mistake by changing careers.

Page 11/34

27. How does continuing education help me make a ca- reer change?

You can confirm your interest in a topic by trying it out. (I.e. Do I like geology?) You can do pleasure and informational interviews with your professors.

You can sample a variety of approaches to the topic by taking different courses within the subject. (I.e. Do I like historic geology or do I like field geology?) By taking more courses in the chosen area, you can focus and develop your expertise.

You can take continuing education courses outside of work hours to build a new career content focus while still employed.

You may be able to convince your current employer that a certain course you want to take will help you build skills in your job and get them to pay for it.

You can get networking contacts from continuing education instructors or other students.

28. How does technology impact career change?

Using websites and the Internet, it gives a wonderful range of job searching methods, and the tasks involved in certain job types.

By having computer skills, transition into many new job sectors can be more easily achieved.

Technology gives more independence through cell phones and the Internet, allowing you to contact any other part of the world at any time.

29. How important is flexibility when making a radical career change?

It is important to keep your options open in order to really obtain the benefit of a radical career change.

Be certain to really look at yourself to know whom you are and what you want to do. Know to some extent where you would like to move in your next job.

Be receptive to ideas that may not be equal to your own. You may inquire from others about your strengths/weaknesses. See how that fits or doesn’t fit with your own perceptions.

Be willing to conduct informational interviews with people may be in some of the jobs/ careers you are looking into . . .

Page 12/34

30. How long does it take to make a career change?

Development of a career plan can take time; begin at least two years out.

Make a transition plan the day after you start work at a new job, to be prepared!

A transition/career change plan is an ever-changing animal. Keep it current!

31. How long should I be in a job before considering a career change?

As soon as you are in the job, you should be looking for another job (keeping your eyes open).

There is not a set time limit for when any change should occur.

Change is a continuous process and can be defined many different ways.

32. How many times can I make a career change in my life without being judged as flighty?

Give employers the reasons/logic/motivation behind your decisions and the possibilities are limitless.

Tie together the skills and experiences you have had to demonstrate your unique ability to achieve in your new career.

Focus on your passion and gifts . . . employers will appreciate your enthusiasm.

33. How much time should I allow (on average) to make a career change?

Depends on how radical the change will be; some career changes require additional education and training. Time will be necessary to complete courses of study.

For many people, one year to prepare, network, explore options and plan is a minimum.

Check risk assessment as some people are more comfortable with risk and change. For those who don’t like change, baby steps may be more appropriate than a radical change.

Page 13/34

34. How should I deal with stress during a career change?

Connect to people in your life who will accept you where you are and be supportive rather than judgmental. If none are around, go out and find the resources.

Create and practice a regimen of aerobic physical activity that is doable and enjoyable. Run, walk, swim, bicycle . . . three times a week for a 1/2-hour or more.

Help others in a structured and regular way. Volunteer to support a cause that is important to you.

35. How should I present myself when faced with an interviewer who thinks my career change is not real- istic?

Ask the interviewer to clearly express his/her objections, and answer each objection, getting buy-in from the interviewer along the way.

Ask the interviewer for suggestions on steps to take in order to be a viable candidate for the position.

Ask if he/she has had experience with someone who has made a similar transition in the past, and what that experience was like.

36. If a career change requires a large geographical change, should I plan on immediately moving my family with me?

Gather information on the next location – availability of jobs for spouse, affordable housing, information on schools, etc.

Consider your financial situation – will the new job pay more and is there money in savings to pay the bills until settled in?

Look at options and discuss them with your family. Decide on what is best for you all.

Page 14/34

37. If I am torn between 2 different career changes, how do I choose between the two?

Determine your personality type/motivated skills/preferred work environment/interest themes and values.

Thoroughly investigate both jobs and compare the above information to determine the best fit. Conduct informational interviews with both companies/possibilities.

Get feedback on what you learn by discussing with trusted peers/family/friends/counselor and ask for their opinions.

38. If I increase my visibility will it take less effort on my part to undertake a career change?

Yes, but be aware that once you put yourself in the limelight you are under more pressure to succeed.

By creating more visibility for yourself decision-makers will have a preview of how you perform. Word of Mouth advertising is the best.

Some ways to increase your visibility are:

Volunteer on special committees/task forces/boards Submit articles to company newsletters, local newspapers (get published) Organize a special event, community forum, company picnic

39. If I make a career change how long should I antici- pate it will take me to feel really comfortable again?

It will depend on how quickly you learn the job skills needed for the new career.

It will depend on how much self-confidence and faith you have in yourself.

It will depend on how you get along with the boss, your co-workers and your customers.

Page 15/34

40. If I make a career change once, can I do it again later?

Yes, the first time is the hardest, making the next change less risky.

Learning a new job takes longer the first time. The second time the learning curve is faster.

You are more valuable to a company when you have held more than one position. You are more flexible and adaptable to change.

41. If I make a career change, how is my value or em- ployability affected?

It is increased because specific values/skills that are important will be utilized in the new career.

It is decreased because a new career will require new skills to be developed and until proficient, the value is decreased. Once proficient however, employability will increase again.

No change because value or employability is not affected.

42. Is a career change a beginning or and end?

A career change is neither a beginning nor an end. It is just opening a new chapter in an individual’s stage of career development.

A career change can prove to be an enthusiastic experience to challenge that will/should stimulate a person’s being.

A career change fosters growth and provides understanding to tapping into unexplored brilliance.

Page 16/34

43. Is it a good or bad idea to make a career change in the organization where I work?

It is a good idea, but only after spending some time evaluating what is important to you in your work and carefully evaluating the specifics of the potential new position. If it seems like a good match and the organizations key players will support you, go for it.

Be sure to develop a support network at work (and maybe outside of work) to help you weather the storms of transition.

If you believe you’ve done the best you can in your current job, it may be a good time to transition to a new position where you can continue to develop your skills and be challenged by your work.

44. Is it easier to make a career change on the open or hidden market?

It is easier in the hidden job market. Develop a list of transferable skills that you currently possess. From this list come up with specific examples of how you have used the skills in the past and how it correlates to the new career.

Confirm your potential by networking with individuals in the field.

45. Is it more likely that I will change careers by seizing unexpected opportunities that arise or by following a careful plan I have made?

If using a combination of both, make contacts within the industry/career and ask questions when meeting contacts. Fill in any gaps in critical skill areas and know what employers are looking for.

There is a difference between sitting back and waiting for an unexpected opportunity and putting yourself in a situation which would increase the chances of an finding that unexpected opportunity. Be proactive!

Be open to unexpected opportunities that may be stepping-stones to your final goal.

Page 17/34

46. Is self-assessment a “must” prior to making a ca- reer change?

Yes, you must find out where you are before you can decide where to go. A career change is difficult or impossible if you lack the basic qualifications.

Formal testing is an assist but not required (Meyers Briggs, Strong, etc.)

Make a list of qualifications required and the skills you have before making a career change.

47. Is there a special strategy when jobs corresponding to your career change are not available or do not exist?

Seek internships with the hope of creating the job later.

Research the market and talk to people in the field to discuss your idea for a job that does not exist.

Obtain a mentor.

Sell your job idea to a hiring manager to see if they can create the job for you.

48. Is there a specific type of job that is better for career changers?

Be careful of industries/fields that are experiencing a down turn with lots of layoffs.

No specific job is best. If you have always wanted to do some particular job an opportunity may arise for you to try it.

One that confirms your values.

Page 18/34

49. Is there a time of the year when career changes are best made?

Recognize that many changes occurring in the summer are based on school calendars. People are willing to change jobs when it does not bring total upheaval for the family members. This is a very important consideration,

Any time of the year is okay, excluding holidays and the beginning of the year.

Study the industry to see when it is most open to change and apply then.

50. Is there an ideal age to make a career change or can I make it at any age?

There is no ideal age for changing a career. Changing careers in mid-life is feasible because people by the this time have developed many of the skills employers view ass critical, such as dependability, ability to learn on the job, communicating within an organizational structure, etc.

Changing careers early in life is feasible because young people have lots of energy, are closer (in time) to their formal education, and are eager to try their wings in many new ways.

Changing careers in later life is feasible because people are less likely to move away, more passionate about the things they choose to do and thus stay committed to what they are doing.

51. Is there an ideal time to begin discussing my plans for a career change (family/friends/coworkers . . .)?

Discuss your plans when you need to develop your network. Give family/friends/co- workers notice of your dream career.

Reflect on plans with those close to you to find out if your plan seems realistic for your skills and personality.

Track down other career changers and mention your plans when you feel positive about yourself.

Find supportive individuals.

Network with those who hold roles as hiring managers/decision makers.

Page 19/34

52. Is there any career change that is not possible?

Develop a list of any physical/mental/emotional limitations that will limit or interfere with your desired career change.

For any limitations, imagine how you could overcome any of them.

Give a realistic solution for how you can implement the solution for making your calling/ dream career change a reality.

53. Is there anything I should do now if my anticipated career change is to take place in the long term (3 to 7 years)?

Interview people that are in occupations related to the anticipated career change to learn about and prepare for the change.

Obtain the training/education required for the change.

Develop skills required for the new position through volunteering.

Document all the activities (portfolio style) that you participated in to prepare for the change.

Monitor the employers of your new position to learn who’s growing, how the future is changing and whom you might like to work for.

54. Is there likely to be a pattern when someone makes several career changes in their life?

Develop a strong understanding and have a strong desire to be well rounded in the field as you make changes.

They see the job changes throughout the industry and learn the different industry standards.

They developed skills necessary to make transfers; they have skill sets similar across occupations and fields.

Page 20/34

55. Of motivation, courage, and determination, which is most important when making a career change?

It is important to have motivation to make any change – a strong driving force for something better or more fulfilling in your life.

To make a career change you should be eager, hungry and restless. Your restlessness will create a desire for change.

Courage will come after you jump into the unknown – but first you must have motivation to jump and trust that you will survive.

56. Of resources (books, seminars, software . . ) or people, what is more helpful when making a career change?

Seek a career counselor to help you plan a course of action and make you aware of more options for resources than you may have been aware of.

Seek a process by which to explore career options/opportunities through Career/ Counseling services.

Talk to people that are positive and supportive of the opportunity for change. Develop a career portfolio to keep your research and exploration results in for reference. Network with everyone.

57. Should I use the specific jargon for the field (indus- try) I am approaching when I make a career change?

The only option is to use the jargon of the new field to show you have the knowledge and understanding to do the new position.

Using the jargon reflects that you are already a part of the community of this field and that you know the language, values, concepts and style of this new industry.

Research the new field to be familiar with what you need to learn. Then evaluate your previous experience to see what you already have that can be re-framed.

Page 21/34

58. Should I change only my field (industry) or only my title (activity) or both?

Seek out/access/list your skills (what you can do), interests (what you like) and work values (what is important to you).

List the plusses and minuses of industries you’re considering, activities (titles) you’re considering and prioritize the list in order of preference.

Compare your skills, interests and values first with the industry and then your chosen activity. The answer will reveal itself.

59. Should I mention I am making a career change when sending an unsolicited letter?

Yes, if you’re requesting an informational interview (meeting) because it provides the reason for your request.

No, if it’s in regard to a specific job opening because it reduces credibility.

In lieu of sending an unsolicited letter, attend a meeting of the professional association for your career change.

60. To what extent does a career change reflect my mis- sion in life?

It will reflect your mission if it allows you to take some action (do something) everyday so you’ll know for certain that you are working towards your mission.

If you gain knowledge every day that helps you succeed in accomplishing your mission, then a career change is good.

Who will you be sharing your effort to accomplish your mission? They should be peers, supporters, and mentors who will all help guide you to your mission.

61. What age is too old to make a career change?

No, develop a career change by taking advantage of your many years of experience.

Convince your new employer that you age will make you a more stable and reliable employee.

Recommend that your employer will benefit from your experience in your previous fields.

Page 22/34

62. What are the best sources of information on suc- cessful career change?

“What Color is Your Parachute” by Richard Bolles.

Read relevant parts of this book, do exercises, review and discuss with other career changers or those whom you trust to be helpful.

Newspapers and Public Radio

Read and listen to current articles and talk shows. Newspapers (especially) have articles of interest and relevance to the local scene.

Career Counselors

Interview career counselors to find one who suits your needs and budget to share your goals and expectations.

63. What are the fields (industries) where a career change is more accepted?

The Federal Government career positions are an industry area where you can find employees having held various unrelated types of jobs. This is true especially in cases of a “military spouse” or a “displaced spouse”.

Accounting is another area that is very broad and transferable. In corporations dealing with mergers or managerial funding, career change is constant.

64. What are the ingredients of a successful career change?

Assessing your values, life goals, skills and interests.

Doing research and gaining knowledge and reality testing about a new career to see if it is truly a match for you.

Being gusty and comfortable with taking risks.

Page 23/34

65. What are the major difficulties I will encounter dur- ing the first 3 months of my new job?

To be challenged which may make a person stronger, and well-rounded but may cause uneasiness at first.

Second-guessing the decision to make the change at first but realizing that an “inverted move” is always possible if unhappy.

Being uprooted from environment in which you were comfortable, but knowing that growth comes this way.

66. What are the major risks of making a change?

Acknowledging fear – false expectations appearing real will prevent motivation for changes thereby thwarting any thought or belief in change.

Leaving a perceived “comfort zone” and not realizing the thought of change is an outcome of unconscious competence that one is unhappy with a current situation.

Reduced income perception will stop career change. Society emphasizes and rewards people who make money whether or not they are happy doing it.

67. What are the maximum number of career changes I may reasonably make during my professional life?

One for every time you have learned all you can in a job, or the management style or culture doesn’t work for you.

As your family growth changes you are often ready to change work as well. I.e. Young children, wanting minimal travel, working spouse, need for less money, children leaving home, etc.

As many as you want and can manage.

Page 24/34

68. What are the most difficult kinds of career changes to make?

The career change that requires a higher level of education than what the individual presently holds. It would require sacrificing time, income and if applicable, time with family.

A new career that emphasizes, or highly prefers, sufficient previous experience. Nowadays, companies prefer to invest the least amount of time and money in training employees. Someone who comes equipped is more desirable.

Changing from a governmental organization to the private sector. The job expectations are different and the private sector does not provide as much job security as a government based organization does.

69. What are the rational and irrational needs for career changes?

Increased annual income, dissatisfaction in current position, and physical limitations are rational reasons to change.

Fulfillment of a dream job, wanting to travel the world, and wanting to see if it can be done are irrational needs for change.

70. What are the steps for a successful career change?

Self-assessment, research and knowledge of the culture are needed. Also, additional schooling, strong transferable skills, and informational interviews are needed.

71. What are the ten most common reasons people make a career change?

1) Need. Being downsized or the job field shifting. 2) Changing Interest 3) Better Opportunities 4) Desire for increased job satisfaction 5) Personal growth 6) Love change 7) Want to broaden education/skills 8) More money 9) Better use of skill set/passion 10)Crisis in life/family 11) To remove self from the old environment

Page 25/34

72. What can I do during an interview to reinforce the positive aspects of a career change?

Relate change to the company. All companies have change due to economy, market preferences, etc. and should understand and be able to relate to the change. Give a specific example in your own career to show how you were able to successfully change.

Give examples of when failure to change broke or ruined a company. Examples might include Pan Am Airlines, Epson, etc.

Take the whole picture view. By changing and learning new skills and information you will be able to positively influence the company. Knowing your network, knowledge and research can help in change with management and other business aspects.

73. What can I do in an interview to lessen the potential negative impact of a career change?

Be proactive. Take the initiative to explain your rationale for the career change. Do not wait for them to question you or you will be one the defensive and be perceived as trying to justify it.

Translate your skills and describe how they are similar and or relevant to the new career. Connect the dots for them. Do not assume they will understand and get it.

Explain that this is the result of an in-depth review and discussions with others and you are confident that this is a well-thought out decision.

74. What can I do to prevent my career change from turning into a catastrophe?

Talk with people who are doing this career right now. You can look into directories of professional associates, ask your friends, colleagues or family for leads.

Talk to the people who care for you about your choice and ask for their support. Explain the reasons to them.

Consider a Plan B. If everything else fails, you can fall back on this plan.

Page 26/34

75. What do I do if I realize (in my new job) that I was wrong to have made this change?

Seek counseling to discuss the reasons you made the change, why you changed to your new position, and what the source of your discontent is.

Evaluate the skills and tasks in your new position. What is it that you specifically dislike? Is the environment influencing your discomfort more than tasks or skills?

Find your locus of control. What are those things in your job that you dislike? Are they within your control? If not, can you learn to tolerate them? If you can change them, are you willing to try?

76. What do most people who have made a career change say after the fact?

People say they’re having more fun in the current career “It’s more me than what I was doing before. It’s hard at first, but the process is very rewarding.”

It’s really important to be in action – talk to people, learn about the skills you’ll need, listen to everyone, but follow your heart.

Be realistic in your expectations of yourself; be kind to yourself.

77. What does a career change have to do with voca- tion?

Vocation is a calling – an opportunity and strong desire to share your special gifts with the world; vocation is connected to career change with many people.

Career change is often prompted by a desire for fulfillment of vocation around midlife.

Career change can facilitate a journey that culminates in matching work with vocation.

Career change can lead to discovery of a new, previously unconsidered vocation.

Page 27/34

78. What factors make a career change difficult?

Lack of the knowledge of the right combination of personality traits, knowledge and skills for the desired job. Not doing a thorough self-assessment will make change very difficult.

Not having the financial and/or family support.

Lack of confidence and self-efficacy. Along with this is attitude – do you bring energy and positive focus – positive self-talk to meet your goals? Can you come out of your comfort zone and take some risks?

79. What is a career change?

Assessing your satisfaction with your present career and exploring your feelings about making a change.

Determining reasons why or why not you should make the change . . . following a personal goal.

Reviewing your skills, values and interests to see if you can make the change.

Evaluating job/career change possibilities by investigating availability of careers of interest and honestly checking whether they are well matched to your skills and values.

80. What is the advantage to an employer by hiring someone who has recently made a career change?

The advantage to an employer is the person will be eager and hungry to learn, and build skills because they are new to the field/job.

The advantage is the person is self-motivated and able to manage fear of the unknown because they have managed and succeeded in the change. Therefore more employers want an employee with adaptive skills.

The advantage is the person may be a wealth of life experience, and experience and knowledge from another title and field that could inform the employer.

Page 28/34

81. What is the difference between a minor career change and a major/radical career change?

A minor career change is a change of job in some industry (i.e. Teacher to a counselor in a school).

A major career change involves a complete change in environment, expectations, skills used, reward structure and a steep learning curve.

You see yourself differently and others perceive your work identity as different.

82. What is the secret of a “best” strategy when making a career change?

Knowing yourself! Do some self-assessment and soul searching to discover what you really want in your career. Don’t be afraid to go after what you want.

Talk it over! Discuss your ideas with friends, colleagues, and family members. Meet people in your target career and ask them about their experiences. Get feedback on your direction.

Skill up! Identify the skills and knowledge needed for your career target. Inventory what you already know and go after new learning via formal education.

83. What kind of grief comes with making a career change?

Letting go and giving up what is familiar or comfortable – even it if is negative or harmful.

Moving into the unknown, no matter how exciting can be uncomfortable.

Risk-taking can often bring a fear of failure.

Page 29/34

84. What kinds of jobs lend themselves more to career changes?

All jobs lend themselves to career change, as you are building a set of skills that can be used in various careers.

Jobs that have a lot of growth or provide the individual a way to learn many different skills.

Jobs in industries that have a lot of options.

Government jobs.

85. What makes some people more adaptable to career change?

When the person is curious about their world and how they can carry out what most intrigues them.

People who are positive and optimistic find it easier to change directions; the fear of the unknown may be mitigated by remembering their past positive changes in their lives.

If the person has taken action – a risk-taking proactive step – in a direction or way that moves them toward a change.

86. What reasons (positive and negative) cause people to want to make a career change?

A vision of something better.

A need to manifest their authentic self so their work expresses their values, interests and purpose.

Boredom.

Page 30/34

87. What role does luck play in making a career change?

Luck is achieved by laboring under the correct information.

Luck is the result when hard work meets opportunity.

Luck/success comes to those who hustle wisely.

88. What should I do or not do during an interview when I am making a career change?

Present transferable skills using concrete examples that demonstrate how you have used the skill in the past and, if possible, how you might use it in the new job.

Project the discussion into the future rather than letting the interviewer keep probing your past. For example, ask questions about the job and then explain enthusiastically how you’d tackle that aspect of the job.

Sell the advantage of hiring someone with a fresh perspective as opposed to someone whose thinking has been constrained from being in the same field and job title.

89. What should I do when approaching a company when I want to make a career change?

Research the job you are interested in and find out what tasks and responsibilities are involved.

Make sure that your skills and knowledge match the tasks and responsibilities.

Demonstrate, using concrete examples, how you can do the job based on your past experi- ence.

Learn to communicate well and practice your answers to interview questions so you won’t

stumble when asked why you are making this change.

Page 31/34

90. What skills are best to use when making a career change?

Develop verbal communication skills because you will need to present your story to the employer better than your competitor.

Develop written communication skills because you will need to write cover letters and proposals to demonstrate your unique abilities.

Develop research skills because job duties and titles and descriptions keep changing.

Develop Internet computer skills because technology is the new way,

91. What steps should I take to ensure that I don’t lose any of my current salary/benefits when I make a change?

Stay within the same organization.

Avoid making a type “C” move.

Read “101 Salary Secrets” by Porot.

Research retirement plan options.

If you want the same salary, you will probably need to stay in the same field and go for a different title.

If you want to be risky, throw it to the wind and follow your dream.

Page 32/34

92. What triggers change: negative factors (boredom, frustration . . .) or positive (vocational interests, en- thusiasm . . . )?

Change is triggered by values. The need to stay in a geographical area that doesn’t support a person’s current occupation may lead to choosing a different career path to survive. Investigate starting a new business or buying one or taking a job that pays less.

Job Burnout. Look outside current work and investigate getting paid for activities you would do for no pay. Volunteer someplace first.

Fulfilling Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs. Making the “Dream Job” come true, perhaps driven by a person’s age. Just do it. Start by doing it on evenings and weekends then transition into full time eventually.

93. What type of companies are more open to career change?

Large ones because they have more varied types of jobs.

Dot.coms because people will/may be called on to do different jobs.

The entertainment industry because people move around constantly.

94. When moving to another city is it necessary to an- ticipate a career change?

Moving to another location often means that the supply/demand for the field you’re currently in may impact what you do. Therefore, it is important to consider whether you desire the same activity or job title you’ve previously held, whether you want to stay in the same field or do something entrepreneurial. The first suggestion is to research the location, the type of businesses and the type of people living there.

Look for educational opportunities in the new area that could help you enhance your skill development for a new field. Just in case you cannot find the type of career opportunity you are seeking.

Find ways to “position” yourself. Join community and professional associations, teach a community education class, volunteer to add to your skills. Find a position at a lower level that could at some point offer you an opportunity to advance at a later date. Job shadow. Network like crazy. Find ways to give to the community and to people. At some point, your efforts will be rewarded. Or, do something over the Internet where location may not dictate the need for a career change,

Page 33/34

95. When my company experiences a major economic downturn, should I jump ship quickly or go down with the ship like the captain?

It’s always good to have a “Plan B”. Ask yourself what will I do next if my job disappears? Begin planning your next move.

A major economic downturn doesn’t necessarily mean the company will close. Take action to be visible to the people with decision-making power. Times of change and chaos provide excellent opportunities to create a new job for yourself at your newly restructured company,

Be visible in your department and company. Ask yourself what skills your department company will need to survive the process. What skills do you have now? What skills do you need to develop?

96. Who is best to advise me on my career change?

Family – consult family members (particularly spouse) to determine if career change would best serve family needs.

Peers/Colleagues – plan informal meetings to discuss whether needs for career transition are realistic based on long-term knowledge of career change.

Professionals (currently in the career you wish to change to) – arrange informational interviews with professionals currently in field you wish to transition to for particulars regarding job flexibility, mobility, income, etc. to determine if it meets your needs.

97. Will a volunteer job help in making a career change?

Yes, a volunteer job can help you make a career change in many ways. It can give you experience, networking contacts, and confidence. It can also help you to decide if that career really interests you or not (sometimes a career will look good “on paper”, but once you see it “in person”, it’s not that appealing).

When setting up a volunteer experience, it’s good to be clear on your goals and expectations, and express these clearly to the organization. Set up a regular “schedule” for your volunteer experience including start and end dates. These can always be changed or re-negotiated.

Page 34/34

98. Will I have to change my way of dressing if I make a career change?

Confirm any promotion by dressing more professionally. Fulfil the expectations of a CEO/ President etc.

Set an example if you are attempting to teach others how to dress professionally.

Adapt to a new organization by fitting into the culture and dressing like your colleagues.

99. Will I long for the job I left and be sorry I made a change?

You will not long for the job you left if you research the new company or organization thoroughly. Interview people in that organization about company culture, their own job satisfaction, policies, etc.

Ask good questions in the job interview about issues that are important to you and will help you determine if the company and position are a good match for you.

Clarify for yourself by writing down exactly what you don’t like about your current job. This often helps people get clear that the negatives do outweigh the positives and that move is imperative. The individual can use this document if later experiencing any regrets, as memories tend to be short for some.

100. Will I need to continue with education or an intern- ship if I make a career change?

Yes, if you don’t have the knowledge or skill sets required for the job.

Maybe, if you want to move into an area where “education” is the currency.

Yes, an internship is helpful for getting inside an organization, particularly in new areas.

101.After I have made a career change, how do I explain it to a prospective employer?

Explain to the employer the reasons for your change and how you will actually be perform- ing better now.

Show how the skills you have are the skills that are needed for the job.

Discuss the benefits of change and how it will be positive for everyone involved.