TAKING the plunge and changing your career requires a huge leap of faith as industry collapses, work dissatisfaction and redundancies push employees over the edge.
Experts agree you should expect to have at least four different careers over your working life, but that does not make the move any less daunting.
Latest research shows 38 per cent of Australians intend to swap jobs this year with those who earn more than $200,000 being twice as likely to seek a promotion or completely change jobs in 2016.
About 25 per cent of the nation will also do further study or seek to acquire additional qualifications to help them on their job-seeking mission.
For those looking for inspiration before they make some drastic changes, take note of these examples of famous people who got it right.
- Martha Stewart
Stewart was well on her way to becoming a Wall Street financier when she began renovating an old farmhouse. While ripping down the wallpaper she had a moment of insight that lead to her world-famous career as the queen of all things lifestyle.
2. Jamie Durie
Durie started out as a male model in the international cabaret group Manpower Australia. But it was during his tours with the group that he began to develop an interest in garden design and architecture. He formalised his passion by returning to study in Sydney for four years. He has received 33 international design awards since.
3. Julia Child
Child made a drastic career switch when she went from working in the secret service to becoming a famous TV chef. She first discovered the Cordon Blue School of French cuisine while living in Paris, aged 36. Her risky decision to write an exhaustive cookbook led to an amazing career in food.
But there are also plenty of examples of career change disasters. Take Donald Trump who is just as famous for his business mistakes as lucrative successes. Trump Super Premium Vodka, Trump Magazine, Trump Mortgage and Trump Shuttle are just some of his business ventures that turned sour.
If you are planning to make a change, experts advise to take it slowly and ensure you are making the right decision.
Now is the time to evaluate your current position and outline your likes and dislikes. Understanding what you love about a current or past job will point you in the right direction.
Experts advise to research the types of work that would better suit your personality and then, if necessary, head back to the books to update skills and broaden knowledge. The following three steps will also point you in the right direction.
- Work experience
Starting from square one means it is time to find a part-time job or volunteer in your new career field. This move could not only strengthen your decision, but also offer much-needed experience.
- Be accommodating
It’s time to be flexible about your employment status, job location and salary. You will not be calling the shots for a while, yet. Set positive goals but expect setbacks.
- Don’t Panic
Remember that a drastic career change, both considered and forced, is often part of life. Studies show you are not alone as one in three Australian job hunters make the switch in 2016.
