Most men spend the bulk of their lives working jobs. Some men enjoy what they do while others would prefer doing something else. Whether or not you enjoy your job can have a major impact on your health. It can also affect relationships with your loved ones, such as your spouse and children. You may also be in a situation where you lost your job in your 40s, 50s or even 60s and need to find another job. Whatever the case, you may at some point inevitably face a career change. And it doesn’t need to be the end of the world. It is also never too late to make a career change for the better.
The first step in making a career change is self assessment, according to Quintessential Careers. You must assess you skills as well as what you enjoy doing. For example, you may decide you want to start your own business, particularly if you have many years experience working a job in a specific industry. Another option is turning your avocation or hobby into a job, or promoting a product in which you are extremely interested. However, make sure the product has broad appeal within the particular target market you choose. There are certain tests you can take online to help you assess your skills, similar to the tests you took in school. These will help get you started. If you plan to start a business, study how other people in your desired profession got started. Attend seminars about a particular business opportunity like real estate investment if that is what you like. You also need to determine how you will finance your business, including savings, bank loans or incorporation, which enables you to sell shares of stock.
For those who prefer to play it safe and get a job, start by creating a resume. Make sure you fully outline all skills and past experience. Spend some time rehashing what responsibilities you had on previous jobs. Highlight those skills that will be necessary for your new career. It is not just enough to explain how effective you manage, sell or market new products. Give specific examples within the context of your resume. Briefly explain key projects you were involved in, then include specific results. For example, if you increased sales by 10 percent per year as an outside sales rep, put it in your resume.
Search for you new career on various online sites like Monster.com, Simplyhired.com and Careerbuilder.com. Some of these sites allow you to post resumes, which interested parties may see. They can then contact you when you include your personal information on the site. However, the best place to start your new job search is through networking. Contact old business associates, clients or suppliers. Also, let all friends and relatives know you are looking for a position. You never know who may know your next boss. But make sure everyone understands the type of position you are seeking.
Another option is joining professional associations. For example, joint the American Marketing Association if you want a marketing job. Get to know people before you start bombarding people with your, “I’m looking for a job” speeches. Exchange business cards with other members. Reciprocate and tell others you will apprise them of any job openings. A search firm is another place you can resource for jobs. You may need to brush up on your interview skills. Many search firms perform many different services, including resume design, interview coaching and helping you find jobs. Many of these firms will tape your mock interview sessions. This allows you to pinpoint your weaknesses: Voice, posture, hesitation while answering questions, or whatever.