Second Career
More often than not, a second career is something that must be a lot better than your first. It must be something that could either give you satisfaction, more room for growth, a better pay or any combination of those. A very common mistake that most people make is by sticking to careers that are either in line with their college degree, their first jobs, or simply because of the compensation. Getting a second career is a leap of faith. It is starting over again leaving something good for something better. It's just like going down from one ladder and going up to another one which is higher and could give you a much better view over things.
However, choosing a second career isn't as easy and simple as it seem. There are several things to consider before taking such jump. Choosing a second career must be planned carefully and must not be a result of impulsive decision making. Keep in mind that such decision can affect maybe not just your life but people around you as well. So what are the things that must be considered before choosing and shifting to a new career? Read on.
1.) Passion. There is some truth in the saying that you must make your passion as your career. That is the very reason why so many people want to become singers, entertainers, actors, actresses, and athletes because they love what professional entertainers and sportsmen are doing. Try to think about the things that you really love to do. In several cases, people are stuck with careers that they really don't feel like doing or on the very least, still have something better in their hearts. Several engineers became professional analysts, nurses became computer gurus, while accountants engage in real estate business and architecture. Never let your college degree stop you from doing what you want. Rather than settling for what you currently have right now, go for what you really want. It's never too late to start doing anything. It is always never too late.
2.) Money and time. Choosing and going for a second career might be costly. There might be a need for you to go back to school or at the very least, find short term courses to enhance your knowledge and skills. Schools have fees, they don't come in for free. Because you're more likely to stick to your current career while gradually pursuing a new one, it may require much time from your part which may mean sacrificing some free time on your part. The responsibilities and demand of your current career and the time that is required in developing what is needed for your second career might be enormous thus robbing you of the lifestyle that you got used to. It may sound much but it is really worth it in the end. Several people achieved massive success in their second careers.
3.) Compensation. Whether you'd accept it or not, compensation is always a part of career. Compensation is the reason why people are flocking nursing and engineering schools because both the demand and pay are high. Several sectors are high in demand and some are seasonal. Financial professionals such as accountants, financial analysts, equity analysts, researchers, and the like are starting to grow in demand. The fashion industry is booming and evolving which needs several creative and imaginative individuals. Every industry pays very well but if you want for a greater pay, you may opt to choose the highest paying one. This is only good for people who have money as their ultimate goal in careers.
4.) Extend your network. People are your best chances of landing your dream job or second career. Connect well with others because you never know, the person that you'll get to know across the street might be the one who will serve as your link to your second career. You may also consider applying for internships or apprenticeships to improve your skills and gain experience.
