10 Steps to Reinvent Your Career

Are you ready to say ‘I Quit’ to your ‘real’ job? If so, you are not alone, here in the US many are folks are saying ‘I quit’ in near-record numbers. Many people feel like they need a more fulfilling career and one that offers more free time and more money. After all, as Americans we work too many hours and don’t have as much time off as others in Europe or many other parts of the world.

Wanting to control my own time and the hours I work makes sense and why I have been a serial entrepreneur for the last 30+ years. As an entrepreneur, the sky is my only limit. With creativity, drive and clear thinking I can create anything I wish and so can you! We are here to create and expand and maybe your need for expansion doesn’t include your current work environment.

If so I would like to offer you a step-by-step guide to changing your career.

Is now a good time to change careers?

Everyone’s career path is different and it may take time to find your way. With major changes happening across America, this might be the perfect time to tailor-make a new career for yourself that follows your true passions.

Wavering economy is simply muck on a national basis. Microsoft started in the last recession – look at it now. Try these steps if you desire to make a change.

What are the 10 steps to reinvent your career?

1. What matters most to you?

Figure out what is most important to you. Some important factors in job selection include income, the level of supervision, location, use of talents, and use of education and skills. Rank these items in order of value.

2. Why aren’t you happy now?

Consider your list of values. Could it be that your priorities were out of order when you choose your current job? If you can determine why you are not happy with your current job, you can be sure to avoid it in your next career move.

3. Can a small change be enough?

Brainstorm slight adjustments that you can make without completely changing the industry that you are in. Perhaps you would prefer to work in a different area of the company or in the same position but with a new employer.

4. Which fields interest you?

Write down fields that you are interested in, should you decide that a complete change in occupation is appropriate. Record anything that comes to mind regardless of obstacles such as educational requirements and income.

5. What would each path require?

Think about the items you wrote down and what skills, training, education and experience are needed for those jobs. How much time would it take to gain the experience you need? Are there any skills or experiences that your current job has provided for you that can help with a transition to another career? How can you improve upon your related skills?

6. What is your plan of action?

Prepare a plan of action. If you need to go back to school, put together a strategy. Plan to train, research, update your resume, and apply to positions. Set a reasonable timeline for these things.

7. Can a career center help?

Stop by a career center for assistance. They can offer you skill tests, personality tests, and counseling. Discussing your ideas with someone can really help you to bring your thoughts into focus and bring clarity to your goals and desires.

8. How do you get the most from a career counselor?

Take advantage of what your career counselor has to offer. They can help you identify you best career choice, and advise you on how to be successful at landing a job in that field. Try meeting with a few different individuals until you find the right fit.

9. How do you learn about a new field?

Keep learning all that you can about your prospective career. Research, go to job fairs, subscribe to newsletters, and meet people in that field. One of the best ways to learn about a career is from someone who has been doing it for years. Absorb any information you can find.

10. Who do you already know?

Network! Family, friends, coworkers, and associates might just know someone in the field that you are looking into. It is a small world, so don’t rule out any connections you may have. Don’t forget about connections online. Talk to people about your interest, because you never know who can help.

Following these steps can increase the chances that you will make a successful career switch and find a path that more closely aligns with your passions. Begin today!

How did Kathi reinvent herself?

When I reinvented myself this time around, I became a Board Certified Professional Organizer. The evaluations inside the book What Color Is Your Parachute? truly helped me discover my unique skills and talents. If you are seeking, and not quite sure what you love to do or what your unique skills and talents are, check out this book. It was life-changing for me and could be for you as well!

Organizing your business, too? A Business Logjam Session with Kathi finds what is slowing you down and clears it.