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How to Successfully Change Careers

By Joe Cooper
Learning & Life Columnist
June 6, 2006

Around 50% of male and female business professionals aren't thrilled with their jobs. If this describes you too, you may be ready to find a new job, but be sure to research your next job carefully so that you don't end up back in the same type of situation as before.

A new job can be closer than you think. There are hundreds of education programs available (even online programs) that can help you get a better job. Keep these 5 things in mind when job-searching:

1. Education
   Being a doctor may sound like an exciting, fulfilling job, but it can take up to ten years of education and residency before starting your own practice. Consider a shorter degree program such as medical assisting or nursing. Research education programs for your new job idea, and decide how much education you're willing to gain.
2. Lifestyle
   Do you have enough time for family, your health, and your own interests? If not, then a new job further up the corporate ladder of business may not be for you (business execs typically work more than 70 hours per week). Consider a role with flexible hours or a part-time position, if you need more time at home.
3. Compensation
   Not getting paid enough? Make sure your new job offers you the salary and benefits for which you're looking. Consider an education program, too; people who complete MBA programs, for instance, make an average salary of over $90,000 per year.
4. Growth Potential
   Will you be pigeonholed in your new job? If you don't see a company with room for growth and a track record for promoting performers, then you may want to keep searching.
5. Job Happiness
   Although this is #5, it is the most important factor. Don't take a new job simply because you're desperate to leave your current one; in some industries, the turnover rate for new-hires is around 40%. You don't want to be part of this statistic.

Doing careful research of companies and make sure you know what your top priorities are, then go find your new job.

Sources

• The Northwestern
• Portsmouth Herald
• CNet
• Businessweek

About the Author
Joe Cooper is a freelance education and technology writer and edits medical literature. He holds a bachelor's in American Literature from UCLA.

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