Career Changes

By K. Zimka

Today's job environment is filled with relentless change. Adaptability and self-responsibility are the name of the game to successfully change careers or deal with unexpected employment transitions.

The first step in making such a change is to assess your skills. What do you know best? What are your abilities? What can you do? Look at publications, such as the U. S. Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook, which provides information about specific careers, job descriptions, qualifications, salaries and trends. Information about this resource can be accessed at http://www.bls.gov/oco. Make a list of careers that interest you, then research how and why you might want to target certain industries or employers.

Go to the Web site of individual employers that interest you. You may be able to learn about the organization's structure, its long-term plans and overall future directions. Put your action plan in writing. Make a list of what you are looking for in a career. Every day, take some action on your job search. Passivity won't pay.

Network with people you already know and continue to meet new people through trade associations or professional organizations. You may want to seek out a mentor or advisor. Call companies that interest you. Set up a meeting and let the human resource person know that the purpose of the meeting is to ask for advice, not for a job.

You may decide that you want additional training or education. Assess what additional skills might be needed. Take a seminar, course or series of courses. Learn about computers or enhance your public speaking abilities. Gain experience through volunteer activities. Joining the local Toastmasters group would enhance your ability to speak and think on your feet. It would give you the chance to network with other professionals in the community.

Put together a resume that emphasizes how skills can be transferred to the new field. List your most relevant jobs from the past 20 years. If you've been out of the work force for some time, emphasize the skills gained through your diverse experiences. Compose a marketing letter that is concise and action-oriented. Get a business card printed with contact information and key areas of competency and interest.

Bring your appearance up-to-date. Check out the dress code for where you're applying. Learn as much about the employer as you can. Do your research and, if you want to succeed, be aware of unwritten workplace rules.