People always say that one of the most important decisions you will make in your life is what career you would like to work in. Whilst you often choose this whilst you're in high school or studying at university, these days, there is no telling whether you will think about changing careers in the future. If you have made the decision to do just this, there are some common mistakes that you should be made aware of that could really throw a spanner into the works if you are unfortunate enough to make one:
- Not having a plan You need to realize that changing careers takes time - you cannot simply wake up tomorrow and find that you have the job you have always dreamed of. You will need to have a plan in place that will allow you to spend an adequate amount of time working on getting a new job without compromising your financial security.
- Mistaking hating your job for hating your career Your job and your career are two different things - you may, for example work at AXA (your job) as a financial advisor (your career). There are other financial advisory jobs out there. Thinking that changing careers is the way to go when changing jobs could have sufficed is a big mistake.
- Following the money Ever heard the phrase "money can't buy you happiness"? Well, it's true, meaning that changing careers simply because you can make more money somewhere else is likely to end with you finding yourself in another job that you cannot stand.
- Giving in to pressure Do not let your family or friends pressure you into changing careers - whilst they may feel that they have your best interests at heart, this is a decision that should ultimately be made by you, and you alone. You will know what you want in a career far better than they will.
- Neglecting skills and education Changing careers may require you to brush up on or learn some new skills - do not make the mistake of thinking that you can get away without doing this. Having no idea what you're doing could cost you your dream job, so getting the proper education is worth it.
By avoiding the above mistakes when next changing careers, you can help to ensure that you are successful in finding a career that you love and a job that you are happy to be in. The decision to change jobs is not one that should be made lightly, and there are a number of considerations that you need to take into account before walking into your boss's office and quitting your current job.