It’s that time of year again when many of us will be considering New Year’s resolutions, and for some that might include thinking about a change in career path or perhaps deciding on a career for the first time. Anne Richardson from the Department for Employment and Learning’s Careers Service offers the following advice…
TAKE your time, consider your options and think carefully before making any decisions. Look at the ideas below, and consider how you can make your first steps towards a successful career change.
LOOK FOR HELP
The most important thing is to seek appropriate advice and talking to the Careers Service should be your first stop. The Careers Service offers free, impartial careers information, advice and guidance. Find your local careers adviser by logging onto www.nidirect.gov.uk/careers. You can contact the Careers Service by phone on 0300 200 7820.
ASSESS YOUR LIKES AND DISLIKES
What do you really like doing when you’re at work, when you’re at home and in your spare time? A job you really enjoy makes all the difference, keeping you motivated and satisfied.
BRUSH UP ON YOUR SKILLS
Industries and work environments change — it is important to keep up. Whether you take a course or read a book, you’ll find education to be one of the most motivating and beneficial resolutions to keep. Challenge your mind in the coming year, break out of routines and watch your horizons expand.
RESEARCH AND EXPLORE NEW CAREERS
Don’t limit yourself to specific types of jobs. Research courses and careers to discover what opportunities are available in education, training and employment. You can start this process at www.nidirect.gov.uk/careers by using the A-Z of Careers.
EXPLORE OPTIONS
People you know may be able to offer you advice and information about a particular company or industry. You could contact professional organisations or the Sector Skills Council representing the industries that you are interested in for detailed information. For details of Sector Skills Councils check www.sscalliance.org.
THINK ABOUT GAINING RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
Update your portfolio of experience. You could consider taking a part-time job, working weekends/ nights, or volunteering in your new career field.
LOOK AT YOUR JOB HUNTING SKILLS AND INTERVIEW SKILLS
The Careers Service can provide you with help and guidance on job hunting and interview skills. Remember you may not get it right first time. Approach each knockback as an opportunity to learn and plan for future interviews.
BE FLEXIBLE
You’ll need to be flexible about nearly everything — from your employment status to relocation or travelling a bit further for the career you really want. Set realistic and positive goals for yourself, but do be prepared for setbacks and change.