“Is Changing Fields Right for You?”

"I've got to get out of here -- this job is killing me!" Or should the statement read, "I've got to get out of here -- this kind of work is killing me." What's the difference? There's a tremendous difference between job searching in a field in which you have experience and eyeing a
completely new career track.

Wanting to escape a field altogether is not unusual. According to a Wall Street Journal poll, about half of all working Americans desperately wish that they could get into another line of work.

The Bad News: Changing fields is usually about 500% more difficult than finding a new job in the same field.

The Good News: It's exciting, invigorating and very possible -- if you strategize and plan your marketing campaign carefully!

Warning: Be sure you want to switch fields before you leap. Here are 10 actions that are characteristic of a successful career changer. How many have you done?

__1. I've read enough to know that my interests and talents would work in the new field.

__2. Comments from people working in that field have convinced me that I'd be happy there.

__3. I already have most of the skills needed, even if the buzzwords and some knowledge bases are a little unfamiliar.

__4. I've researched the field and relevant organizations on the Web, and I like what I see.

__5. I have contacts in the field who are willing to introduce me to people at various organizations.

__6. I've gained an inside look at the career field from magazines and/or newsletters.

__7. My family is supportive of the move -- or at least not likely to sabotage my efforts.

__8. I've told others who know me, my talents and my limitations-- and they are approving.

__9. I've dug deep enough to know the pros and cons of this field, and I still want to take the plunge.

__10. The experiences, satisfactions and lifestyle connected with this new kind of work suit my goals. In other words, I'm going toward something rather than just running away from my current
work.

How did you do?

Ten: You're on your way and bound to be successful!

Less than 10: Go back over the list and choose a step to work on. When you've accomplished that one, move on to another.

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