Are you stuck in a rut? Do you want to make a change to your job or profession?

There are 3 main areas to consider:

1. Knowing yourself. e.g.

  • What are your skills and abilities?
  • What type of working environment would suit you?
  • Why do you want to make a change and what will make your working life better?

2. Research!

  • The internet can be useful but use it carefully.
  • Network with as many different people as possible - don't be shy about asking people about their jobs.
  • Attend free shows such that run through the year, such as the Skills show (Taking place in Plymouth in March or  in London and Birmingham in November) or the National Careers Guidance show (London in March).
  • Talk to your local college or adult education provider about courses that could provide you with more skills.
  • Can you gain some different experience through voluntary work?

3. Decision Making

  • Everybody does this in different ways-some do it intuitively but for others it is long drawn out process!
  • However, the more information you have the more likely you are to be able to make an informed decision, that will hopefully be the right one for you.

IF ALL THIS SOUNDS DAUNTING THERE IS HELP OUT THERE:

  • The National Careers Service Website contains lots of useful careers information, skills tests and much more on changing careers. See www.nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk   

  • Consider a face-to-face Careers Interview with a professional Careers Adviser who can take you through the whole process.  If you live in the South West see my website page on help for individuals, or see the Career Development Institute's register of professionals to find a Careers Adviser in your area in your area:   www.thecdi.net       

  •  Consider an assessment such as Morrisby that can help to identify your skills and aptitudes and suggest careers you may not have thought of. Dart careers can provide this or see the Morrisby website for more information: www.morrisby.com

  • Look out for my monthly blogs on different career areas for more ideas!

(Image courtesy of Master isolated images at FreeDigitalPhotos.net)