How to Start a New Career

Probably the most asked question that I get is “How do I start a new career?” This is a question that bothers many people. While I am all for having a focused resume that has a very clean background. Sure there are times when you have to train for a new career, but most times it is just applying yourself down a new career path. The reality is that things are changing drastically. Not only because of the down economy times, but also because of competition. Companies are constantly changing the way they do business in order to be more efficient and to have a wider profit margin. How does one compete in this environment?

The only way to maneuver in this changing work environment is to understand what is changeless about you! You have God-given abilities that just come natural to you. The best part is that these natural abilities are not industry specific. We tend to believe that we were made to live in a silo, when we have so much to offer. You just may discover that you skills applied in a new career might be just the job satisfaction you were looking for. Choosing a new career does not have to be a daunting task. There is a recent trend in many of the Ivy Schools over the last few years. College students pursuing degrees in the non-profit sector are at an all-time high. Why is this? They want to use their skills in making a difference and not just in making a buck. Does that mean all of us should be in non-profit work? Of course not, but there is this fascination with blazing a new trail and going against the grain. Here are three tips for heading into a new job career.

1. Understand what is changeless about you. This is one of the most enlightening discoveries that you will ever make. In fact, it is one of the ways to really handle change. Do you know what is changeless about you? Take your resume and really look at what you have written. What stands out? What skills can you look at in a new light. Then, right down different industries on a piece of paper. Even ones that you have not thought about even considering. Ask yourself this question “How can this skill apply to this industry?” What occupational titles in this industry could I pursue?

2. Know what really energizes you. This is an important step in heading toward a new career. We all have certain work activities that we could sustain for several hours without burnout. We also have certain work activities that drain us quickly. Have you taken time to think about which ones really excite you? This is important because positive energy is vitally important in the interview process. I have seen time and time again the candidate with energy beat out the better qualified candidate. Hiring managers like to find the “go-getters.” When you are genuinely excited about the work you will be doing, you will display the right type of energy.

3. Sell your abilities on your resume. Most people do not take the time to do this. Some people do not like talking about themselves at all. You need to get over this. You do not have to be arrogant to get a new job. A new career will require you to get creative with your resume. I use a resume template that I know works. It is designed to be flexible and to really sell the individual on the top half of the first page. You want to form a good, first impression. Most resumes only get a 10 to 30 second look. You need to paint a picture of what you want the reader to feel, think, and know about you.

If you are thinking about going in a new career, please take the time to incorporate these suggestions into you plan. They will do wonders for you and help you in the journey. Also, be patient. It can be hard at times, but your attitude is what needs to be in check. When you go for that interview, go after it, but do not put too much pressure on yourself. The right opportunity will eventually show up.