Most people have considered changing careers or jobs at least one time during their life, no matter how many years of experience they have. There are a wide variety of reasons why you may be looking for a career change. Money, time, stress and overall happiness are some of the main reasons people look for a change. But before you plunge into a different executive role at another company, consider these points.
1. Weigh the Long-Term vs. Short-Term Benefits
Sometimes you have to sit down and look at your executive experiences to see what you’ve accomplished in your current role. Look at where you started and where you are now. If you think you’ve reached the top at your current company, but want more, then another company could offer a better long-term solution. However, some of the short-term requirements may not be as attractive in a new role, such as increased travel or longer hours.
2. Look at the Pros and Cons of Each Career
Breaking out the pen and paper for creating your pros and cons on whether or not you want to change. You can do this before or after having your executive resume written, but most people do it afterward so they can generate more ideas. If you’re strongly considering a change, then the pros of a new career will likely be longer by default. However, focus more on the cons when you look at your current job and really think about how bad those cons really are. Sometimes you may overcook them just because of the frustrations of other aspects of the job as a whole.
3. Understand the Value of Your Network
It takes a good amount of time and effort to build a large executive LinkedIn profile with a lot of connections. Depending on how much work experience you have, it’s best not to drift too far away from your connections when choosing a new career. If you choose to do so, then you should always keep in touch with them in case the grass isn’t greener with your new chosen career.
4. Your Personal Feelings and Happiness
A career change is a huge decision. When you look at your executive resume bio and you aren’t happy with what you’ve done, it may be time for a change. Not even money can cover up unhappiness and negative feelings toward your job most of the time. If that unhappiness comes home with you at the end of the day, it’s time to seriously consider moving on from your current job.
We know how difficult it is to even consider a career change. We are here to help you at any point in the process, so don’t hesitate to contact us.
By Erin Kennedy, MCD, CMRW, CPRW, BS/HR, a Certified Professional & Executive Resume Writer/Career Consultant, and the President of Professional Resume Services, Inc. She has achieved international recognition following nominations and wins of the prestigious T.O.R.I. (Toast of the Resume Industry) Award. Find Erin at http://exclusive-executive-resumes.com.