Frequently Asked Questions

I'm too old to make a career shift, and anyway I don't think my experience is transferable to a new field or career.

The work world is continually fueled with new opportunities we've never had available before in prior years. The key is to be open to learning, unlearning, and relearning. The current worker entering the job market can anticipate 6 to 8 career changes! By 2030, 20% of Americans will be over 65 fueling the need for employers to retain and hire older workers. Also, there will be an unprecedented increase in entrepreneurial and consulting opportunities for midlife career changers as well.

I'd love to have a job with more meaning, perhaps in non-profit, but can't afford a cut in pay...

The number one fear keeping people from changing their career or industry is money! An optimal career shift really depends on how well you package yourself and your skills to a potential employer. A recent client who switched from a large accounting firm to a social services agency not only landed the job she always wanted but at a comparable salary because of how she effectively marketed herself to her new employer.

My job takes up all my energy so I don't have time to look for something new, even if I knew what it was! I've thought about other careers but can't seem to get started...

Oftentimes, it's hard to take the first step and it's easy to get stuck in the planning phase. When you try to visualize the outcome, it can be overwhelming. Start with a simple first step. Recall past situations where you thoroughly enjoyed an activity you were involved in and felt a great sense of accomplishment. Note these "success stories" in a journal. These stories hold the key to your next career!

I've just finished school and don't have time to plan for a career. I just need to get a job and let my career take care of itself...

You are in charge of your career! Many seeking work changes are simply unaware of their options or can't visualize a new career direction. They spend almost no time planning, directing or managing careers. The key is in knowing ourselves – what motivates us, what we're good at, what interests us, and which environment suits us. Then we can match our "product" (us!) with what's out there.

During college I was told the big money was in the investment field. Ten years later I'm in a high status job making good money, but I have a lot of stress and get little excitement or fulfillment in what I'm doing. Maybe all jobs are like this...

Planning on the "hot jobs" is a surefire recipe for career dissatisfaction. Career problems arise when people base their career selections on what others tell them would be a money maker, high status, or both. Several years back, many people invested lots of time and money in the dot.com industry only to discover they had to start again. To assure career satisfaction, select your career based on what fits your individual skills, interests, values and motivations – then research the industry opportunities to find a good match. A little planning goes a long way toward a fulfilling career life!