Careershifters' 25 Top Tips to Kick Start Your Career Change

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By kalpamayee on 1 February 2008 at 21:21

I was working before as a back office customer care executive in a BPO industry in INDIA. I left that job three months before and came to UK, because my husband is working here. now i am unemployed, looking for a job. I am facing problem to get a job because i don't have any specific experience to start my career here. because everywhere they are asking the same question have u worked before in uk. i am a very good typist. i have the basic knowledge of computer.i need a entry level job to get a chance ot prove myself. i only have back office exeperiece. i can speak english and hindi. i want to work in any type of official work like secretarial, administrative, typist work. can u pls suggest me how i will start my career and will get a good job? waiting for ur reply.thank u very much. bye bye.

By Selina Barker on 11 March 2008 at 16:59

Have you contacted relevant agencies offering the kind of work you're looking for? There are a lot of agencies out there that place people with your experience in secretarial and administrative jobs.


By MarRi on 16 February 2008 at 14:28

I have been back & forth with the idea of switching my career b/twn going into the Medical Field as a PA or going into the Pharmacedical Field as a Sales Rep. quick pros & cons to PA: Pro's it seems like PA's are in demand and later it would allow me to spend time with my future children while having a career, I really like people and helping them as well. Con's: It will take aprox 2 years or more to go to school and recv. a degree, not to mention, prep work to even get into a school Pro's for a Pharm. Sales Rep.: It has been a dream to want to be a Pharm. Sales Rep., I love people and the medical field and enjoy informing people about new and upcoming medicines which in the next 2 decades are going to be very exciting. I also like to put on lunch ins, dinners and give people things, goodies and trinkets, etc... Pens, all the fun things that a rep gets to do as part of their job. Con's: My Bachelors in College is 360 degrees from the med. field, however, I did go to a tech. school in the medical field and had my own business for almost 10 years relating with doctors and had a wonderful reputation in my field. I also did all the marketing and managed people for my business and did all the sales as well, and ran the business, by myself.However, due to the injury I have there will be no more of this particualr job in my futre anymore. I was severy injured in an accident(over 2 years ago) and the carrer I had(which I loved) will no longer be a choice for the well being of my health as I stated above. Plus waiting anxiously to get surgery to start my life new. At least this is how I feel. I have been unemployed for 2 years now and waiting for closure from the accident which has degraded my health, good thing I am an athelete, so I feel I will bounce bk quickly. Also an extreme optimist. I want to be on my A-game when finally making the right choice for my new career which I would like to stay in for pretty much until I retire. I would also like to move up in the company and I am a real people person. What is stopping me from the Pharm Sales postion really is I do not have the college background so to speak however, I do have the medical back ground after going to a trade school to become one of the top people in that particular medical field. I am motivated and really want the Pharm. Sales Postion or a Postion where I would be trainning or Presenting (and this is where I realized the Pharm. Field would give me all of this and more satisfaction. As I said however, my degree gets in the way when a person looks at it. Can you suggest anything? I am not a spring chicken yet I am not in my golden years either and it is time for me to really shine and for me to do what I know in my heart where I would really excel. I am excitingly waiting for a relpy with your intake on this in an honest form. Kindly thank you again, for your time and I look forward to hearing back from you.

By Selina Barker on 11 March 2008 at 17:19

You're in a great position in that you know passionately what you want to do. What I would suggest as a next step is that you contact the companies and agencies that offer these positions and ask for an interview - they'll be able to give you some great feedback on what your chances are of getting the job that you want and what you need to do, if anything, to gain the necessary experience/qualifications. You'll also be letting the right people know that you're out there.

It's also worth contacting people that HAVE the job you want - people are always more than happy to talk about themselves. Ask them how they got into the job and what they'd recommend as the best way in.


By emily on 9 March 2008 at 12:32

I have a good BA English degree and a PGCE in secondary education. I have worked as an English teacher for the last three years but don't want to teach anymore. I went straight through from school to university to my first job so have never really known anything else. Any suggestions?

By Selina Barker on 11 March 2008 at 17:28

Hi Emily,
Almost everyone starts their career change journey from your position - not knowing what you want to do but knowing that you want to change career.
You'll have a great set of transferrable skills as a teacher that can be applied to all sorts of jobs.

What I'd suggest as a starting point is that you read some of the expert advice articles that offer exercises on identifying the activities and interests that really make you tick. There are also some great exercises on identifying your values.

If you're based in London or Edinburgh then why not come to a Careershifters workshop - designed for people that want to make a career change but have no idea what they want to do.

Good luck with your careershift journey - it can be a daunting ride sometimes but well worth it in the end!


By markmccluretoday on 11 July 2008 at 10:39

Emily, I left school teaching in N.Ireland 22 years ago (because of poor money and the start of the National Curriculum testing lol) and became a instructor (i.e. teacher to adults!) in an IT company. The trigger for the "career change" to IT was partly due to a BBC computer (with tape drive that took 5 mins to load the black & while games we took as state of the art then!) that my younger brother won in a competition. We spent a lot of time playing those simple games. And I also got more and more interested in how the computer itself worked. That inspired an interest in perhaps working for IT companies and I had a few interviews as a programmer - which I did not pass. A few months later comes an Ad in the TES for this IT company looking for teachers to join their training dept - as a 'balance' to the experienced computer types they were also hiring. Bingo! So, look around at the good and the less so in your present job - and see if there any tenuous links between them. And BTW, I found teaching paying adults (well, their company had paid) a lot easier than motivating children to learn. For the adults, their ability to complete (and understand) the course was related to their job and promotion prospects. So, it was kinda fun to teach them. Hope that helps. regards mark mcclure

By bhav on 17 March 2008 at 12:13

Hi,I am a 45 year old woman who was a qualified solicitor in her previous life. I took the decision to stay at home and look after my three children (the youngest has just turned six) I have no desire to return to the legal profession and really don't know what to do. I need to do something for myself now but am not sure I can balance work and home life without adding stress to my life. I am quite creative, love animals, enjoy being around people, can relate to people from all walks of life. Do I attend Art College? Do I enrol on a Interior Design Course? Do I train to become a psychologist? (always fancied that!)If I take on any of the above how do I balance it with bringing up the kids without disrupting home life?

By suzanna on 2 April 2008 at 14:19

Hi there, I just wanted to post a quick comment for bhav above. Ive only now come across this site myself, but I think we are running on parallel lines of sorts. I too have trained in law (am 26), and due to cross qualify as a solicitor shortly, but I am overwhelmingly certain that I have no desire to remain in law, and feel frustrated that I dont do the things in life i actually enjoy. I am also very creative, have thought about working with animals, and funnily enough am in the process of considering either the arts (design, fashion), or the psychotherapy route!! Isnt that funny! So i just wanted to say that your not alone, and hopefully somebody can provide some advice/insight into this. Thanks Susie

By jenny on 28 June 2008 at 13:53

Hi bhav and Suzie I have just qualified as a solicitor and like you both do not wish to continue in the legal profession. It sounds like you both want to work with animals, there are many jobs that you could both go for. Vet/ vet nurse, breeder, farmer??? I have a friend who has done a course in dog physiotherapy. She was a receptionist at a vets and now offers physio sessions for dogs. The problem I face is that I have a large loan that I needed to pay for my LPC and feel this could prevent me changing careers. What could I do that would pay me enough to cover my mortgage and loan? I feel quite trapped. I have been thinking of moving to Australia and working in the law over there but I think that would defeat the object. I quite fancy working for a large company. I am commercially astute but don't have any experience. Do you have any helpful suggestions? Kind regards Jenny

By GauriChandra on 7 April 2008 at 21:34

Hi, I am a experienced IT Project Manager working with a Global Financial Services Company for over 10 yrs. Over the last couple of years, I derive no joy /satisfaction from my work and get very stressed. I want to continue working but in a totally different field (creative / hospitality etc). However I need to continue earning a steady income to make ends meet. Pls. advise on how to go about finding a different job in a new field, as I have no clue where to start !

By CRB17771 on 9 April 2008 at 10:48

I know how you feel. I can't offer practical advice, but I can tell you what I'm doing and I hope it helps. I'm in a very similar position. I've been in IT for 12 years. I have a few ideas of what I want to do, but not sure (a) if they're right for me and (b)how to get to do them. Last year, I finished a contract, did my house up and rented it out. Then spent 12 months travelling the world...it opened my eyes to a few possibilities. My current targets for career change are photography, travel industry, selling coffee and acting, but also thinking of nutrition, psychology, even becoming a doctor (not ruling anything out at this stage). I'm also interested in film-making and becoming a dive-master. That's a bit much to do all at the same time, so, I'm going to try things out, what I'm doing is this: a) Getting a less-stressful IT job (contract) to bring in some cash. View it as short term. c) Applying for training as trek leader and looking for jobs in travel industry that actually involve travel. d) Phoning and emailing pro photographers to get assisting work. e) Speaking to bank about starting own business. f) Getting a Saturday job in a cafe (to see if I like selling coffee all day) g) Finding an acting course - not acted since school. h) Planning next trip to coincide with trekking season in Nepal to get involved with some treks (and possibly making a film about my adventures). Training to be a health professional will take time, so I'm focussing on the stuff that's easier to get into at the moment. While I might not be moving in the right direction, at least I'm moving in A direction. Also, although IT work can be unfullfilling, it does bring home the bacon and give me the luxury of considering an alternative career. If I were busier trying to make ends meet, I probably wouldn't be as concerned.

By Badger on 17 April 2008 at 20:57

Hello, I am currently a graphic designer but am thinking of becoming a carpenter, although my experience and skills are lagging well behind my desire for change. My ultimate goal is to be involved with the restoration of old buildings, or perhaps high end kitchen or flooring installation - I don't want to be limited to buiding site work. I'd be grateful for any specific advice any members can give, such as what would be the best entry route into this field (eg carpentry and/or joinery courses, getting work as a 'trainee' etc.) I don't have the means to complete a long full-time course - I really need a fast, intensive solution with the prospect of almost immediate employment. Is this perhaps too much to expect?!

By Beetroot on 25 April 2008 at 13:43

Hello Badger, My dad is a carpenter in a non-building site specialism, and he always complains when new trainees don't know their craft and think they know it all - he's at the top of his field, has done it for 30-odd years and still seeks out new info on tools, treatments, structures, etc. so my advice would be that if you're serious then get humble, be prepared to learn from the bottom on a day-release basis (so you can still work but get a good grounding in the skills you need). Otherwise if you know there's an area you are really keen on, like flooring or kitchens, contact the people that do that and offer yourself as a labourer - then they can train you on the job. Labourers who are good with clients and fast to learn seem to move up pretty quickly - and if you combine your graphics skills with learning technical 3D drawing then this will give you a big added plus point. otherwise, if it's old buildings you're into then i know that some universities do post-grad courses specialising in this - i know oxford brookes does this as a part-time course, for example... hope that helps and isn't too bossy! i know how frustrating it is when you want change NOW and can't afford the thousands of pounds to go and retrain as i'm in the middle of this myself - but heading frpm marketing to urban design/landscape architecture...

By Grezza on 8 May 2008 at 22:45

Hi all, As many, I am at the start of the route to changing my career i.e. I know in my heart that I need a change but really do not know to what??? How have other people out there made sense of all the noise and blurred thoughts in their mind? I'd really appreciate any suggestions as I am really struggling to get past this. I have been working in procurement for a large blue chip company since leaving university around six and a half years ago. My problem is that I have been sucked in to corporate salaries without realising that the world of powerpoint presentations and naval gazing really is not for me. All I know is that I enjoy being out and about interacting with people and facing daily challenges. That unfortunately could be found in many places I imagine. Thanks in advance for any responses.

By Selina Barker on 11 May 2008 at 19:02

Hi Grezza,
First of all you're not alone - anyone who has made a career change has gone through that initial phase of 'what am I going to do?!' panic. I had plenty of noise and blurred thoughts going on when I went through my career change - just check out my shiftlogs! Great news is that you DO know what you enjoy - 'being out and about intercating with people and facing daily challenges.' And it's true that this could be found in many places, which on one hand can seem overwhelming, but look at it positively - how lucky that there are so many options out there. Sonia, one of our career coaches always says to remember that there isn't ONE right career for each of us. There are lots to chose from that will bring us fulfilment.

What I would suggest is that you start by making a list of jobs that involve being out and about and interacting with people. I also enjoy that and i found that a job in recruitment offers me all of that. Mind you so did working on a burrito van - ultimately one was a little more lucrative than the other!

I'd also suggest you browse through the 'Getting Started' articles and exercises on this site written by top career coaches. They are brilliant at helping you get further clarity on what's important to you in a job.

Anytime you get stuck post a comment and one of us will always answer.

Good luck and let us know how it goes!

Selina


By riskee1 on 10 May 2008 at 00:09

I am a 43 year old married woman with no children. I have just recently accepted a buyout from general motors in michigan. I decided it was time to pursue other interest. Trouble is I have an associates degree in accounting and B.S. in Health Administration. I have not spent any time in any of these fields in the past 11 years that I spent building cars. I have 1 year volunteer experience as an office administrator and the last 2 years i have been running a computer lab inside general motors which has given me the guts to leave and move out of michigan and start a new life. The trouble is the economy is so bad that everyone thinks I'm crazy except my husband. I know I am capable of doing something else. i just don't know how to get started any suggestions?

By Selina Barker on 11 May 2008 at 19:08

Have you read the expert advice and exercises written by career coaches in the 'Getting Started' section? (type 'Getting Started' into the search bar and they'll all come up). You'll find exercises that will help you get clear on what's important to you, what activities you enjoy and what work environments you thrive in so that you can begin to visualise a picture of what a fulfilling work day would look like to you.

And don't worry about people thinking you're crazy about making a career change - most career shifters report that. I found that it was the people that ALSO wished they had a different job but were too afraid to make the change themselves that were the most negative about me making a change.

You're lucky to have the support of your husband.

Let us know how you do with the exercises.

Best wishes,
Selina


By Deedee on 10 May 2008 at 12:38

Gosh I dont really know where to start, it seems like a lot of people on this really know what they want! I graduated from uni in 2004 with a management and IT degree (although I have little knowledge of IT!!), went travelling for 2 years and then fell into a job working for a textile company and doing quality assurance (I dont particularly love it and the money isnt the best!!). I'm 25 now and I feel like university was a bit of a waste as I didnt really know what to do with my degree. I would love to do a job I enjoy, or even to have a clear goal of what that is. Its hard to know what path to take, to go back to Uni and retrain- although I couldnt really afford to do it again, plus I'm probably a bit old! Is there anyone out there in a similar situation to me? How did you go about figuring out what you wanted to do? Im trying to fight off the urge to go travelling again as I dont want to return to square 1 at 30!!!!

By Selina Barker on 11 May 2008 at 19:37

Hi Deedee,
Actually most people, when they get fed up with their job, like you have NO IDEA what they want to do. I certainly didn't when I decided to make a career change at 26. Check out my Shiftlog on this site and you'll see how I went about working out what I wanted to do.

If you love travelling chances are that, like me, you love new experiences and love exploring. I took that spirit of adventure and applied it to my career change.

I started trying out new activities, sought out opportunities for new experiences and made an effort to do things that I had once enjoyed or had always dreamed of doing.

As I did this I made a conscious note of the activities and environments that really made me buzz and began to get a clear picture of what were the 'must-haves' for me to be fulfilled at work.

I helped friends on their stalls at festivals, I got involved in projects - offering my services for free, I enrolled in a ceramics course to design my own jewelry, ran a Spanish workshop once a week in the evening and more.

I did this for two years before choosing a new career to settle into and it was every bit as exciting as my days of travelling.

So, what I would suggest, is get into action - get out there and start discovering what activities and environments make you buzz. And check out the expert advice for exercises that will help you at this early stage of your career shift.

Good luck!

Selina


By sk1982 on 15 May 2008 at 17:35

Since leaving uni in 2005 with a Business IT degree & a 1 year marketing internship experience, I thought I wanted to become a qualified accountant working in the the Entertainment industry as I've always worked in that industry. I landed myself an accounting role (minus the studying) in the music industry. I was totally estatic about it even though the pay isn't great & it doesn't offer any study packages. Years have gone by and I've been there for 2 years 3 months. I must say that I'm very unhappy with my job. There's no pay rise, no progression & nothing to offer. I'm 25 (turning 26 very soon) and I shouldn't be feeling completely demotivated and unhappy on a daily basis. I decided to review what I want to do. Is accounting really for me? It is absolutely mundane & repeatative with no real challenge. But I loved maths and numbers in school & university, and I am very good at my job. I spoke to my friends & work colleagues. They offered different advices & my head was all over the place. Shall I stick back in accounting but look for a new work place that may appreciate me with a better pay & a study package? Shall I start looking for some consulting jobs? Maybe Marketing or Project Management? Even event organising? Maybe a runner or a production assistant? I didn't know what to do and my friends/colleagues managed to sell these jobs to me that I think I want to do everything! As I have enjoyed my internship & the marketing modules in university, I thought that could be a possible sign that this could be the job for me. So I applied for the marketing position at my current work place but with no luck. A rejection within less than 24 hours but I wasn't surprise with the politics & who can bring benefits to who, I didn't even stand a chance! I have been applying for the past 1 1/2years (not intensively) but with only 2 interviews and many rejections or "you don't have enough experience". I've signed up online with different agencies but none are interested. Are people born with experience? I want to ask each and every single one of them. I am only looking for an entry/assitant level. I began to question myself - maybe I am over qualified for an entry level and not qualified enough for anything above the entry level? Every single rejections only demotivate me. I have other outside activities which I thought would be a great benefit to my cv. I worked for an AM radio station, helping out on outside live broadcast and event organising. I carried that duty out of volunteer for around 4 years, until 12/2006. I have recently helped a non-profit company on a live TV broadcast at the BBC studio, as a volunteer production assistant which I thoroughly enjoyed. With these extra activities, no agencies or employers seem to be interested in me. It came to a point where I'm asking myself whether I should stick back with accounting, search for a new employer that offers studying & better pay or whether I should continue to search for a marketing position and try it out because if I don't like it, I can always fall back into accounting. I know that by doing a marketing course it will attract many agencies & employers, but my biggest problem is money. So I am back to square one... I don't really know what I should do but one thing I know is that I want to leave my job/employer asap and I've been saying that for the past 1 1/2 years! Help!

By Selina Barker on 19 May 2008 at 20:54

Don't worry, you're not alone - this kind of confusion is very common! I certainly went through it - I was overwhelmed by all the choice out there, not to mention everyone's different opinions.

First of all, I would suspect that the reason you're not getting much love from agencies or employers is that you're still not clear on what you want. They can't make up your mind for you.

Employers and agencies are looking for people that are clear and committed on what they want - otherwise how do they know you won't change your mind and leave the job 3 months down the line.

It sounds like you've been doing plenty of thinking - for a year a half! Which is good - you need to spend time mulling your options over. But it's not getting you closer to any kind of resolution. What I would suggest is that you get back to basics.

Rather than thinking in terms of job titles, get back to working out what activities you enjoy on a day to day basis, what kinds of people you like to hang out with, what working environments you thrive in, what your passions and values are. There are lots of articles and exercises in the 'Getting Started' section of the site that will help you with this.

I'd also suggest booking in a few sessions with a coach - they are great at guiding you out of the confusion and into clarity.


By vicki on 17 May 2008 at 18:11

Hi there, I've been a nanny for the last 15 yers. I'm 33 and feel like it's time for a change. Although I love children I dont want to work in that field now. I'm very self motivated with great organisation skills and love the outdoors. I couln't be stuck in an office all day and do like to work on my own. I'm not a 'super brain' but I am very practical and good with my hands, also quite artistic. I especially like woodwork. I'd love to do something that keeps me on the move. Dont mind being outsise in the cold/wet weather. I did think about doing some work for the National Trust, but I think it's pretty hard to get in isn't it?? Thanks, I hope someone can help me!! Vicki

By Selina Barker on 19 May 2008 at 19:56

Hi Vicki,
You sound like you're pretty clear on what want and don't want and what your skills and strengths are. That's brilliant.
You're at the exciting stage of exploring your options and looking at what jobs match your criteria.

But you're making the classic mistake of having a good idea and immediately discounting it with an 'I don't think it's possible'.

If the National Trust is something that appeals then get in touch with them. Check out their website - http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk - they have lots of volunteering opportunities which is a great way to first get involved. You'll be able to explore what you enjoy doing and will meet the right people to help you find out what paid opportunities there are.
So my recommendation is to get in touch with them this week and let us know how it goes!

Good luck.

Selina


By catshorty on 20 May 2008 at 10:02

I have worked in the financial services industry for 8 years. I really want a total change of career as i have lost all enthusiasm for the business and its now something i have to do just to make money. However i have no clue what new career i would like...there are so so many jobs out there and don't know where to start and it looks like i would have to take a significant drop in salary as i have no experience in any other field. Help!

By Selina Barker on 20 May 2008 at 21:46

Notice how you say you've 'lost all enthusiasm'. It suggests that you might have once enjoyed the work you do and something has changed.

It's important to remember, when you start getting fed up and jaded by the work you do, that maybe the job in and of itself isn't the problem. Don't immediately think that you have to make a dramatic change. A total career change isn't always the answer and it's important that here at Careershifters we make that clear.

We've had people come to us thinking they want a total change, only to realise that they had forgotten to enjoy life outside of work. They weren't just bored of life - they were bored of life.

Some of them found the solution was to start new hobbies or revive old hobbies. I knew a lawyer who started writing a novel in her spare time - went to creative writing evening classes - and her life transformed and she started to enjoy her job as a lawyer again.

Start by going out there and enjoying life - try new things, make time for the things you love. You'll either start enjoying your work more or will be inspired as to what else you can do. It's a win-win situation.


By Jam99 on 20 May 2008 at 12:09

Hi all, Im looking for any help/advice I can find as I've found myself at a bit of an empass when it comes to what to do next. Im 30, graduated in 1999 with a degree in Ancient History. Spent 5 years working in the TV industry which I learnt alot from and was great fun but the lack of work all year round finally unfortunatly meant I had to find a more typical "9-5" job. Consequently have ended up in a records management/archiving role for the last 3 years and have again leart alot but this particular role is defintaly not something I want to do any longer than I have to as I no longer enjoy or feel challenged in the role, there is no prospects of promotion and being a "faceless" member of a huge company isn't much fun. I really am not sure what way to turn now, to go back to media (which would be great but i imagine would mean starting back at the bottom of the ladder, to study again (which would be great but more of a pipedream becasue of the expense) to work more in historical work possibly in archiving/cataloging in a way that I can really use my degree (that i loved doing) or skills ive gained previously more or to do something completly different. Work experience isn't really an option either as wouldn't be able to afford not to be paid for any great length of time. phew sorry about that mini-essay there! Any help would be great! Jamie

By Selina Barker on 20 May 2008 at 22:04

People always get stuck in a pile of options. It's like we try to jump a few steps ahead of ourselves when wanting to make a career change.

The only way to get clear on what path to take is to go back to basics and work out what you want from your job - what activities you want to be doing, what subjects you're most passionate about, what your strengths, skills and values are. There are loads of articles and exercises on this site to help you with that. Put 'getting started' into the search box and all the relevant expert advice will come up.

Once you're clear on what you want to fill your days with it'll be a lot easier to see what jobs will ofer that.

Try some of the exercises and let us know how it goes.


By taylor on 28 May 2008 at 10:25

I'm 31 and have a degree in Fine Art an since graduating in 1999 I've had my own business as a photographer, worked as a Administrative Assistant for a computer company and I'm now currently working as a Design and Technology Technician at a school. Initially I loved the job because I wasnt stuck at a computer from 9 -5 and the job consists of mostly using my creative side and working practically, but now I find the job incredably boring, the pay is very poor and there are no prospects within the job. The job has been good in two respects because it gives me lots of time to play the drums which I have a huge passion for and also to travel in which I have worked as a volunteer abroad, working with animals (heading out to Namibia this august) My idea at first was to start teaching drumming when I have passed my grade 8 (which I am studying for now) and run it along side of being a Technician but as the pay is so low and I am desparate to get out of my current job, I have driffted away from this idea because I'm not confident I will be able to earn a good living in order to have my own place.... I'm looking for a career in which I can be challenged and that I can use my brain again, please help as I feel like I'm going round in circles and not getting anywhere! I'm very confused!!

By Selina Barker on 28 May 2008 at 22:06

Careershifters coach, John Williams, is our resident expert when it comes to making a good living creatively. Plug 'John Williams' into the search box at the top of this page and read through the articles and shift surgeries he's answered on this subject. Also visit his website www.freestylesuccess.com.


By Sam on 28 May 2008 at 13:27

Hi there! Phew - After being a negative person for many years (I'm 38) I am going down the road of trying to change all areas of my life to positive. One of the main areas being my career. Sorry if you fall asleep part way through - but I thought I would start at the beginning.... I left school unsure of what to do for a career and I only had 3 o'levels under my belt. I went to college and did a 1 year combined arts course as I had an interest in the arts. Here I found I loved painting and sculpture etc.. and went on to do a B-Tech National Diploma in General Art and Design. I broke off the course to travel to the states on a Camp America programme which I don't regret one bit. I returned to college later that year to re-start the B-Tech but then finished early again the following year to go back to the states to work. This happened the following year also so I never completed my B-Tech. I worked at a printing company after that then somehow worked in a school for 10 years (the first 6 years as a learning support assistant and the last 4 as an IT technician). I then moved away from home and have been in the IT industry doing various support roles ever since. I would love to change my career but I have an IVA which is not completed until I'm 41years old!! So I am afraid to take the plunge now in case I end up going bankrupt due to not being able to make my IVA payments. I don't have any savings. I would love to do a job in art like an art therapist or maybe an art teacher? When I was at college, I was put off going into the arts field as I was advised there are no career prospects in art. But I feel a passion inside me for art. I would love to go back to college to do an arts degree but would fail when applying for a student loan due to my poor credit history. I really don't want to stay in a job I'm not happy with for the rest of my days...how can I make a positive change in this area of my life? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

By Selina Barker on 28 May 2008 at 21:59

How much painting and sculpture do you do in your spare time? Often people's frustration in their work is massively amplified when they've stopped doing the things they love in their free time.
If you have a passion inside you for art, how about starting by really expressing that passion outside of work - get back into painting and sculpture in your free time. Take evening classes or weekend classes. Many people find a new career grows out of a hobby that suddenly flourishes. Give that hobby the space and time to grow and see where it takes you.
If you did then decide that you wanted to spend more time on your art work you could look at doing part time work.
When I left my job 2 years ago to change career I decided I wanted to paint and write for a living. By starting to do it seriously in my spare time I realised that actually I enjoyed it most when I could do it as a hobby - doing it to make a living took the fun out of it. The point is, you never know until you try.


By Sam on 29 May 2008 at 12:25

Thanks for your advice Selina.

By Flambee on 13 June 2008 at 00:46

Just an idea....do you like make-up??? Some of the best make-up artists I know have come from an art / fine arts background.....and they can make a lot of money freelance whilst indulging their artistic passions doing wedding make-up etc. Kind of random suggestion, but it might be worth exploring as a way to get extra cash to help you save up for your studies, and you might find it really fulfilling in the meantime ? You could even volunteer at places like cancer charities / hospitals as many do rehabilitation therapies for patients.....

By sarah1 on 1 June 2008 at 08:53

Hello all! I am 32 and currently work as a solicitor. I worked for a large international company up until March of this year, when I had a really confidence destroying experience as they promoted a less qualified man over me and did not deal with the situation or explain why to me (plus I really hated the job), so I left to work for a much smaller firm. I am enjoying the work a lot more and particularly enjoy the non work side of the job (pr, management, brand profile) but still dont find it particularly fulfilling. I also have a "second career" playing in a band which takes up a lot of my time and it is difficult to balance the two! I have spent about a year looking for jobs related to law (ie charity commission, working for the council etc) but now I am wondering whether to change tack alltogether and go for something more creative - I used to pursue lots of my other interest such as alternative health, writing and music but now I feel I have no time at all! Does anyone have any advice for me? I am going to a retreat for a week to think about my options, but I don't really want to get "stuck" in a job I dont really like again Thanks for your help

By Selina Barker on 4 June 2008 at 20:03

Hi Sarah,
Seems to me you're a lady with a lot of interests. Me too. And it's great to have so many passions and intersts but can get overwhelming when you attempt to juggle them all AND earn a comfortable living at the same time.

I left a secure job in marketing two years ago and had a brilliant time earning a living doing the things that I loved - I made jewelry, taught Spanish, travelled to Europe and even the US working on events, worked at festivals, sold icecreams, joined a friend of mine on his burrito van. I looked into retraining as a homeopath, a councellor, even a mid-wife at one point...all this and I was working with the Careershifters team running workshops and building this website.

I had a great time but I was living on the breadline and eventually I had to admit that it wasn't a sustainable way of living and my emotional well-being for lack of security (and lack of money to buy food!) was suffering.

My love of advising people on their careers led me to recruitment, specialising in marketing - I'm doing something I love everyday AND earning a reasonable income.

But that doesn't mean I have had to cut out my other interests from my life: I'm still working on Careershifters, still selling icecreams and burritos and working at festivals every now and then. I'm planning to take up photography again, hatching a plan for a Careershifters book (that will raise some eyebrows in the team!) and more.

The point is, when you have so many interests you can't squeeze them all into your career. Career is only one portion of your life. So what I would suggest is that you start making a list of all the activities and interests you want to pursue in your life and then look at the whole of your life and where they can all slot in. And remember you don't have to do it all TODAY.

Have a look at what income you need - could you go down to working 4 days a week, giving yourself that extra day to follow your other interests?

It seems to me that for you it is both a matter of considering a career change AND working on your work-life balance.

I remember meeting a lawyer at one of our Careershifters workshops. She thought she wanted a career change, but realised in the workshop that she wanted a life back. I bumped into her a few weeks later (selling her an icecream!) and she said she was much happier in her job now that she was filling her life outside of work with the activities and interests that she loved.

Give it some thought and let us know how it goes.

Hope that's of some help.

All the best,
Selina


By Squirrel on 8 June 2008 at 23:12

Hi, I am currently working for a large financial services company as a management accountant. Throughout my twenties accountancy was all I wanted to do and I was focused, motivated and driven. I gained my CIMA qualification and after a couple of years my career seemed to plateau as there wasnt as much to aim for as I had my letters. Now at 30 I am having a career crisis, I have been for interviews for new jobs as I thought that it was what I wanted, and even though I am being offered jobs I am turning them down, either because the package doesnt match what I am on or just because after getting the job the idea of it just doesnt appeal anymore. Im not sure therefore whether I should change companies, roles, or career altogether. Sometimes I think i would be happier just working in a coffee shop, that said I am used to earning a good salary, but I am realising that it isnt the most important thing. I can't face going into work now, I feel I cannot remember the last time I was truly motivated. I have always liked the idea of being a debt councellor or a financial advisor, a job where I can use my knowledge and experience and share it with others, whilst having a varied and challening role. Help! Thanks!

By willt on 10 June 2008 at 08:27

Hi Squirrel, to be a financial adviser you'd need to take a qualification such as CEFA (cert for financial advisers). It's 5 modules, you sit 2, then another 2 and then a final one which is a summary of the previous learning. It's relatively straightforward, multiple choice so you shouldn't have a problem if you're bright enough to pass CIMA. I would add a word of caution though, I entered the industry for similar reason as you, I though I'd be giving people advice based on my expertese etc, but I've found that it's just a cut throat sales job. I work for one of the big banks, dealing with the rich clients, so I'm supposed to be in one of the better jobs in the industry but even then I'm not enjoying it. There are plenty of guys I work with who love it, but they are the more sales orientated people. There are plenty of people making fantastic salaries in the industry, but please have a think about whether you'll be happy with targets for how much investment you've brought in etc, constant pressure to hit targets etc.

By Squirrel on 15 June 2008 at 21:16

Hi Willt, thanks for taking the time to reply to me. I probably had a very rosy idea of the role of financial advisors and maybe was a bit blind to the hard selling part :-) I might still look into the CEFA qualification though as its always another string to the old bow. After looking at others comments I think I might also try to get back to enjoying life full stop and not letting the lack of enthusiasm for my job affect my enthusiasm for life. Thanks again and I really hope things turn out well for you! Squirrel.

By lostlady on 9 June 2008 at 21:47

Hi, currently have a very specific job in corporate security doing research and cant honestly think of a single thing I like about my work. I have done this for 6 years both here and abroad but all career advice I have doesnt seem to listen to my primary problem which is that I dont want to stay in this work. Everyone advises me to go freelance or change company, but thats not what I want. I genuinely have no fear of leaving this job but utterly clueless of what to do next. All my interests seem to be those that most people would love, travel, people etc. Aggggh so frustrated. help me!

By willt on 9 June 2008 at 23:35

Hi, I'm desperate to change career but have the sinking feeling that I'm trapped. I work as a financial adviser for a major bank, the problem being that we don't give advice - we sell. If I convince someone to put their life savings in the stock market I get a pat on the back whether it was the right thing for the client or not, the only thing that matters is making the sale. I make money, my boss makes more money, everyones happy, or is supposed to be. I like financial markets etc and always wanted to work for a bank but hate the sales side. The job is actually making me physically ill, I think about work constantly, even when I'm playing with my kids. If I don't get out of sales soon I'm really worried about how things may end up. The stumbling block is that I'm quite good at it, I earn good money so all the jobs I come up with that I'd like to do are just not possible (young family, big mortgage). I've looked at training for some sort of analyst role in the bank but at 38, would be in my 40's before qualifying and would be competing with new graduates for trainee positions. PRobably wouldn't get the job and definitely culdn't take the pay cut. I'd love to work for a charity and do something that I felt would make a real difference but as usual it's the money that puts a stop to it. I really don't think theres an answer and am destined to work in a job for another 20 years that I absolutely loath. Maybe letting off this bit of steam will help :)

By Kaycareerscoach on 11 June 2008 at 13:09

I can totally emphathise with the position you find yourself in. It is very easy to find yourself "stuck" in a job you dislike or hate. There is a way out though but it will take a change in your thinking and a commitment to change. Take a look at my blog for some inspiration/ideas kayholdsworth.com You need to consider how you will feel in 15-20 yrs time if you stay in your current job. I know it sounds cliched but we do only have one life. The barriers that we put in our way our not always so impossible to overcome. Sometimes these are just excuses which we tell ourselves to keep us safely in our comfort Zone, free from failure.

By frosty on 10 June 2008 at 13:06

I work for a major high street bank as an account manager... which basically means "seller". When I started the job 2 years ago, I took on the job primarily because I had a strong sales background and needed a job due to relocating. I did not want sales job, but I struggled to get into any other role. When I first began work I quite enjoyed it, I felt I was advising the customer more than selling to them. I had the help too of being in a big and busy branch. Then, because I was good at the job the management shifted me to an underperforming branch to see if I could rescue the sales! Bad move. I have hated my job ever since. Although I do very well in my sales performance, I feel like its a constant battle. Customers hate me hassling them everytime they come in. I get daily tellings off! I have to do overtime for free to hit target. And now i started having panick attacks. Thing is I cant stand my job anymore.... but I cant get out of it. I would love to work as a houing officer but have applied with no joy. I have not got any housing qualifications so wondered if there was anything I could do to help me get into something that i know i would love?? Funny thing is.... Im only earning £17k a year. Is that really worth getting stressed, upset, panicked and overworked for???

By Kaycareerscoach on 11 June 2008 at 13:18

No it is not worth all the stress, upset and panic! You don't say how old you are but I'm imagining you are still in your twenties? Welldone to you for applying for jobs that you are drawn to. This is a good start. Changing career direction does take time, faith and commitment but I am certain that you can find a job that gives you less stress and anxiety. Have you considered voluntary work? This is always a good way to gain experience and inside knowledge. Perhaps you could apply directly to agencies and organisations that interest you? This would mean re-writing your CV/covering letter and tailoring it to they job role you are applying for. Look on jobs4U website for housing officer job description. You need to show that although you have no previous experience, that you have transferable skills. Follow up you CV with a phone call, you will need to be persistent. Perhaps you could ask to talk meet with someone who already does the job? Have a look at my blog for more ideas kayholdsworth.com

By Sylvia on 16 June 2008 at 17:48

Hi, I am another one who desperately wants to change career, but has no clue whatsoever how to go about it. I have 2 big problems. One of them is that I am already 55, and I have now worked for 22 years in the same line of business - computer software, starting from trainee developer, and moving on to other positions and now in release management. After all this work where I have arrived at is a dead end, with not enough technical skills, not enough transportable skills, no managerial experience, and a swing between boredom and high stress. The only good thing about the current job is the salary, which is quite good by the standard of this industry sector. The other big problem I have is that I have no clue whatsoever as to what I want to shift my career to. I have interests and hobbies, and high educational level, but nothing that translates into any job/career. The clock is ticking, all avenues seem closed, but I can't bear the thought of carrying on what I'm doing until retirement. Is it still possible to consider a career change, or is the only option to stick with what I've got and try to see it more positively?

By Selina Barker on 16 June 2008 at 21:59

Hi Sylvia,
I've heard a lot of stories of people who have made a successful career change after years in the same company. It IS possible!

One of our Shift Doctors, Jessica, replied to a shifter in a very similar position to you a few months ago. Check out the advice she offered - it's got some great practical exercises: http://www.careershifters.org/node/426

There are also a number of ShiftStories by people who made changes later on in their career.

Start with some inspiration and practical exercises and see what comes of that.

Let us know how it goes!


By markmccluretoday on 11 July 2008 at 10:59

Sylvia, You may have more skills and abilities to enjoyably earn a living than you think. Check out Bob Griffiths's 1988 book "Do What You Love For the rest of your life". Although he comes from a different generation of Wall Street crashes (!!) the angst and the decisions he worked through make it an inspiring read for people considering midlife career change. BTW - he 'downsized' his life. There is a small website by the same name, I think. But the book is better info. regards

By Kaycareerscoach on 17 June 2008 at 19:47

Hi Sylvia,

You do not have to stay in the same stressful, unfulfilling job till you retire. It is now time for you to take stock and make the decision to put all your efforts into finding a job that will not leave you either stressed out or bored silly.

1) The first step of the process is to take a good look at yourself and your life to present, from a personal and professional perspective. Get some paper and write on one side your lifes pleasures and delights and on the opposite side list all the pressures and disappointments. Include anything that you think is relevant such as interests, hobbies or any dreams or career aspirations that you had as a child or young adult. From this can you identify any themes or issues that need to be addressed?

2) Ask yourself what barriers or beliefs are preventing you from finding a more ideal job. For example, "I think I'm too old" or "I can't afford to take a pay cut. " Write these down on the bottom of the same piece of paper. The barriers and blocks that most people put up are fears, the fear of failure.

3) Now think about what you would do if you were free from any financial or practical limtiations. Be as creative and imaginative as possible. Remember the sky's the limit, realism does not come into it! What would be your dream scenario?

Do you believe anything is possible? Question your fears. Is it possible to overcome them? Do they really matter? How will you feel in 5 years time if you are in the same position and your fears and blocks have kept you from taking action?

Good luck, and don't forget to enjoy the journey.
www.kayholdsworth.com


By feefee on 10 July 2008 at 13:59

I am a 31year old lawyer who doesnt like being a lawyer!And because of ending up in a career i cant stand, i would like to start doing something to help younger poeple between 13-19years to progress towards identified goals and careers they will love,in form of a non profit venture, problem is i dont know where to start! I know i have an idea of starting a youth centre with mentoring programmes etc but i dont have the dynamics of this and i am told i have to obtain qualifications in this, i am confused and not sure what to do and where to start!Theres nothing like this in my area so i cannot ask some one in the same field,any ideas?

By Selina Barker on 10 July 2008 at 22:13

I know just the guy for you to contact - Jack Butler at Future Foundations - he's doing just what you're talking about - check it out http://www.thegraduatecourse.co.uk/ or http://www.future-foundations.co.uk/

Jack is a friend of the Careershifters team : )


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