Depending on the company or industry, it is fairly common to see annual turnover rates that run from 15% to 20%, sometimes even more! This means that each year at least 1 out of 5 working people change jobs and even careers. In some industries and businesses the turnover rate is a lot higher when compared to the others.

These figures tell us that it is very important to realize that you may have to face several career or job changes during your work life. Whether simply moving over to a new company or changing careers completely, you’ll probably have to face the challenge of deciding whether or not to take a course change in your working life many times. Here are some more points to consider before making your decision.

What to consider before getting started with a new Career

-Never use money as your motivator when it comes to changing jobs. If it’s only money that you’re looking out for, then you should probably ask your current boss for a raise. It is easier to do this than to switch over to a new career field itself. However if you aren’t comfortable with the prospect of negotiating with your employer and are determined to get yourself a new job in a new field, then you could use the services of a recruiter. A professional recruiter will aid you in areas such as salary negotiation and company policies and the possibility of you getting a better job or a better career will be stronger.

-Don’t let others make career decisions for you. Never allow friends or family or even recruiters to tell you what kind of a job or career path to follow. Yes, it is always good to listen to the advice and suggestions of well-wishers, but in the end it is you who is going to make the final decision and so you have to reason it out with yourself. The idea of changing your career is completely yours and the people who are close to you can be involved to verify your decision and to give advice and suggestions.

-Be determined and patient. Don’t expect a new career prospect or a new job to suddenly materialize before your eyes overnight. Remember that a career change – and finding a suitable job within that career – can be time consuming and frustrating, to say the least. It is important to be determined in order to find better opportunities. When you are dealing with a career change patience and determination are the two most important factors in order to find what you are looking for.

-Get started with a job search; be creative and use common sense. Thinking “out of the box” is an age-old cliche, but a sensible one – when planning a career change, try not to do those things that you have already done such as sending out hundreds of resumes, answering paper advertisements, and so on. There are many more effective ways to go about conducting your job search. Talk to friends and family and even colleagues who can help you with your searching. Make sure you are original and creative in your job search.

Before jump-starting your new career, try to introspect and understand certain facts, such as why you are looking for a change, what it is that you want, what you think you will get out of a career change, and so on. Once you are sure of the fact that you are going to leave, then devise a plan of action to obtain a new and better job. After all, if you’re only looking for a pay hike, then asking your employer for one is far easier than changing your job. Career change can be daunting, intimidating and absolutely backbreaking! But, all in all, if done right, it will always be worth it.

Image taken on 2009-02-22 15:21:42. Image Source. (Used with permission)