The average person makes more than three career changes during their working life, reported the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics.
Why change careers?
"It's not enough to keep busy. [People] want to have meaning in their lives and they want work to give them that meaning," said Richard Bolles, the author of "What Color Is Your Parachute? 2003: A Practical Manual for Job-Hunters and Career-Changers."
"[Many people] wake up one day and ask: Is this all I was put on Earth to do?," said Bolles.
A career change can change your life. And, although the change can seem overwhelming, help is available. Job Tip of the Day's three-part series on changing careers can help get you started.
What Should I Do With My Life?
"When people change careers, they have to figure out what they most enjoy doing in terms of skills," said Bolles.
Focus on your "transferable skills," skills that can be used in more than one industry. Some examples of transferable skills are communication and presentation skills.
And make sure that you put your needs first -- not the job market's. Most people make the mistake of trying to figure out what the market wants, said Bolles. Instead, think about what YOU want.
'Trioing'
"Trioing" was invented in the 1970s by Bolles. An exercise to help you identify the skills you most enjoy using, trioing can be very useful to those considering a career change.
Here's how to "trio": Gather two friends or other people you trust. Identify several instances when you achieved something you were proud of. Write down those experiences. Then examine them to pinpoint what skills you used to achieve those successes.
By sharing ideas with your two friends, you can uncover skills that you didn't realize you had. Your friends can help confirm your strengths and skills too.
Testing Times
Career assessment tests measure management style, problem-solving skill and other abilities. Based on your answers to questions, they suggest the type of career you might be suited for.
You can find some useful career assessment tests here: /assessment
Among other things, the tests can be helpful in identifying your transferable skills. But remember: Tests are simply one of many career assessment tools. So don't be discouraged if a test doesn't point you toward your desired career.
Career Counseling
Career counselors can be helpful when you're considering a career change. A good counselor can help you identity your strengths and skills.
If you decide to visit a career counselor, be sure to prepare in advance.
Before you meet with a career counselor, "write down what you liked [and didn't like] about the kind of work you've been doing," said Bolles.
"When you've done some thinking before you talk to the counselor, it's a great help," said Bolles.
If you can't afford a counselor, you can talk about your career options with a mentor, close fiend or someone else you trust.
