Dear Matt: I don't like my job so I've made the decision to retrain for another position in a totally different career field. And it's not the company, it's the job. I don't like the work anymore. Do you have any advice for me before I make the leap?
Matt: This is a bold move because many people get "set" in their ways and in their profession - whether they like it or not - and stay in it. If you are able to make the transition, good for you. But first keep in mind, there are a lot of things to consider before making this move. The first thing to assess is why you are unhappy in your current position. In many cases, it can be the company, boss or even co-workers. But you clearly state it's the work. So knowing you just don't have the passion for this type of work anymore is a great reason to consider a career change.
Before pursuing this new opportunity, examine the short and long term prospects of this change - and what you need to do to achieve success and happiness.
Here are some points to ponder:
How much will training/education cost?
What are the long-term job prospects? Is this field in demand and will there be job openings now, two years, five years, 10 years down the road?
Will you be able to handle starting over in a new career where you are possibly considered entry-level?
Can it offer a salary that compares to what you are currently making and can you live with the salary potential in this field?
