Q.  Dear Nancy:

I've been contemplating a career change, but I'm not sure if I'm ready to make the leap.  I can't quite tell if I'm just bored with the job or if I really should make a significant career shift.  What are some issues I should think about to determine if a career change is needed?

A.  You ask an interesting question.  Sometimes job frustration is driven more by miscellaneous factors, such as a difficult boss, long commute or tedious work assignments, than by a poor choice of career.  Since changing careers takes work, energy and time, try answering these questions before proceeding with a major career shift: 

·         Think about your working conditions (i.e., hours, commute, working environment, etc.).  If you could change one or more of these elements, would you enjoy your job more?

·         Are the people you work with a source of frustration?  If so, what type of personalities would you be happier working with?

·         If your work environment causes you to want to make a change, is there any way to alter your environment or your attitude toward it -- or is the only solution to actually change jobs?

·         If you do change your job/career what will you gain (i.e., greater flexibility, higher income potential, etc.) and what will you give up?

If, after careful consideration, you determine a change is needed, think about the following:

·         What type of work environment/ boss/ co-workers would be a better fit for your personality style? 

·         What are your strongest career related interests?  What types of careers or industries would allow you to focus on those interests?

·         Are there new skills that you just don’t have the opportunity to use in your present profession even though you’d really like to?

·         Are you willing to go back to school to acquire new skills?

·         Is there a way to try out a new career (volunteer, temp or intern) without quitting your present full-time job?

If after answering these questions, you decide to pursue a career transition, I'd be delighted to work with you to help you to develop a plan for implementing your goals.  Click here to learn more about my telephone consulting option.

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