If these warning signs are flaring up, it
may be time to reevaluate your career. Check out these 6 signs that you’re in
the wrong career and learn about some solutions for getting into the right
career for you.
Sign #1 - You want to
make more money.
There's nothing wrong with wanting a bigger paycheck. It may not
happen overnight, but if you're committed to this goal there are things you can
do to work toward it.
Solutions:
·
As a general rule, the more advanced
degree you earn, the more money
you'll make. This is true in almost every field including nursing, business, health care, and criminal justice.
·
Management-level jobs also mean more money, so consider
enrolling in an MBA program.
·
Fields such as finance
and accounting have some great
salary numbers - especially at management levels.
Sign #2 - You are bored
with your job.
Watching the minutes melt away at work isn't just boring; it's
bad for you and bad for your company.
Solutions:
·
Whether it's transitioning to another job in your company, or
making a career change, pursuing your passion is a good place to start.
·
Julia Child didn't learn how to cook until the age of 37, when
she enrolled at Le Cordon Bleu. If you love the culinary arts, consider going
to cooking school.
·
Take the time to discover what moves you - and what careers can
make use of your skills - whether it's graphic
design, web design, interior design, or something else entirely.
Sign #3 - You are getting
passed over for promotion.
No matter the job or the circumstances, watching others leapfrog
you at work is a difficult thing to endure.
Solutions:
·
The key is to demonstrate that you deserve a promotion. Let your boss know that
you have aspirations to move up and ask for areas where you can improve your
performance.
·
Consider adding to your qualifications by getting a certificate or degree.
·
For those looking to move into management, you can handpick the MBA program that's right for you, whether it's management, marketing, or human resources.
·
Keep in mind that many companies offer tuition assistance plans
to ease the cost of going to school.
Sign #4 - You are afraid
of getting laid off.
It's no secret that the unemployment rate is up, making job
security a common concern for many Americans. But if your lack of job security
is detracting from your work, it may be time to focus on long-term career
stability.
Solutions:
·
Some careers are more stable than others. If you are fearful
that you will lose your job, start putting together a plan for other careers
that fit your qualifications and personality.
·
Education may be part of an effective long-term strategy, or
even a near-term one, since there are plenty of shorter training programs, like
a paralegal studies certificate or a technology
support certificate.
·
Consider career tracks that are growing - not shrinking. For
example, the U.S. Department of Labor forecasts excellent job prospects for medical assistants, accountants, and nurses.
Sign #5 - You search job
postings while at work.
Trolling for a new job while on the clock isn't just dangerous;
it's inappropriate. It's also an indication that all is not well at work.
Solutions:
·
First of all, stop! You'll only make things worse if the boss or
a co-worker nabs you.
·
Next, start using your free time to beef up your resume and
network.
·
Earning a certificate is a quick way to boost your
qualifications. With some previous education, you may be able to get the
education you need to start a career like medical
assisting or paralegal in as little as 18-24 months.
·
Getting a degree,
while it's a longer commitment, can indicate to potential employers that you
have the necessary skills and drive to succeed.
Sign #6 - You dread
waking up in the morning.
Hitting the snooze button isn't a warning sign that you're in
the wrong career, but having recurring nightmares about your job could be a
signal that it's time to make a change.
Solutions:
·
Do a self-assessment or talk to a career counselor. What's
bothering you at work - and why? If it's time to change careers, make sure you
look before you leap.
·
Getting a degree can arm you with the skills and
confidence you need to make the transition.
·
Going to school at night or online may allow you to keep your current job
while looking for a new one.
·
Health care is one
hot option. The industry is ripe with employment opportunities.
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