Contemplating a career change? Career options to consider

Should you welcome in a career change?

You don't have to stay stuck in that same boring career for the rest of your days. Making a career change can renew your interest in work and give you a zest for life again. Plus, it's possible to make a change faster than you might think. 

Whether you've raised children or gone through a divorce and now find yourself with more free time, or you're just not getting what you want out of your day job, training for a better career can be the right choice.

Training for Something New

There's never been a better time to train for a new career, especially when resources available today allow you to armor yourself with new skills and education in a relatively short period of time. 

For example, there are online courses and even virtual "auto schools" that can help you become an auto mechanic through a technician training program. If you're interested in a veterinary assistant career, Penn Foster offers a line of training and a diploma for lovers of furry creatures. It's a rewarding opportunity to work with animals and help restore or improve their health, as well as educate pet owners.

Working World lists five other careers you can get into within a short period of time, including manicurist, paralegal, heavy equipment operator, phlebotomist, and medical/health interpreter. Many of these careers can be lucrative, and all of them are in demand. Phlebotomists, for example, make a starting salary of around $30,000 per year, but that can rise to over $42,000 per year with time. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), paralegals make an average salary of just over $50,000, and the top 95% of those in the profession make more than $75,000. That's a good wage for something a person could potentially get into with six months of training.

Taking a Leap of Faith

You can tell when it's time for a career change. According to Forbes, losing your passion and purpose, or feeling like your talents aren't valued are two of the most significant signs that you may need a change of career. Other clues include not trusting the culture in your workplace, feeling like you can't grow professionally where you are, not being rewarded for your hard work, and not being able to stand out or brand yourself.

Deciding what you really, really want to do with your life from a professional standpoint can help you choose a career program more easily. Don't be afraid to reach out and ask for help and support from family, friends, and others who are on your side, as they can give you encouragement to make that leap into a different career.

Networking is important during career change, and the more people who know about your new path, the better, says U.S. News & World Report. Social media can be one of the best ways to network and let others know you're switching careers and why you'd be a good fit for a particular organization, so be sure you utilize sites like LinkedIn and Twitter. The more you get your information out to the masses, the more likely you'll be to find a new career quickly, sometimes even before you've finished your six month training. Having a job already lined up is an excellent way to remind yourself you've made the right choice in switching careers.

So if you're ready for a change, consider a new career!

Guest post by Erin Kramer, health educator, fitness instructor and baker

Thanks, Erin! -- Kathy

Contemplating a career change? Share your story or tips! 

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