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Look Before You Leap... Page
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- What kind of education do I need?
There's no sense in making a jump if you simply don't have the background employers need.
Assessing your credentials can help put things in perspective and focus your goals. And
education doesn't have to be full-time--consider taking classes on a part-time basis to
fill in the gaps. The additions to your resume may be enough to convince a reluctant
employer that your lack of a full degree isn't such a weakness.
- What are my strengths and weaknesses?
Defining your strengths and weaknesses helps you create a career path that will be
successful. If you aren't a people person, the last thing you want is to be stuck in a
retail position where you are constantly around customers. On the other hand, if you love
being around people but are weak with details, you probably should stay away from
accounting or finance jobs.
- Which skills do I like to use?
Now that you know what your strengths and weaknesses are, you need to figure out which of
those skills you'd like to use. Just because you're very organized doesn't mean you like
being a project manager. Figure out which strengths you'd like to build on, and which
areas you'd like to learn more to smooth out your weaknesses. That way, you can tailor
your career to be both challenging and enjoyable.
- What kind of settings are most productive for me?
Some of us are corporate animals. Others thrive in small, cutting-edge environments.
Determining which type of setting you best work in is vital--only in the correct
environment can you give 100%.
- What do I want to learn?
A satisfying career will allow you to constantly learn. If you feel you can do your job in
your sleep and that you know everything about your company, it may be time to move on
because you have outgrown your position and company. Challenges keep your job fresh and
satisfying.
- Where do I want to be five years from now?
This is a common question in interviewing and recruiting because it's so fundamental. You
can't plan a career change without having a general direction of where you want to go.
That doesn't mean you can't stray off a bit. If you're a journalist who wants to become
managing editor, it can be useful to get an MBA. The key is that you build and acquire
skills that will help carry you to your goal.
Taking a close look at your situation before you make a move to change careers is
vital. As with many things, the more information you have about a situation, the easier it
is to make decisions you won't regret.
Reprinted with permission of CareerBuilder.com.
CareerBuilder, Inc. has emerged as the leading provider of E-cruiting (electronic
recruiting) services with the CareerBuilder Network, its pioneering model to provide
employers with a choice of the best career sites on the Web from a single vendor. The
CareerBuilder Network is made up of over 25 leading professional, broad appeal, diversity,
and industry career centers.
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