NEW PATH
NEW CAREER
CONSIDERING a CAREER CHANGE ? 3 Ways to GET STARTED
By : Nick Schaefer , Director of Career Development
You have seen the headlines . Heard the chatter . And perhaps even made a change yourself .
In fact , 46 % of U . S . employees are considering a career change , according to data collected by Microsoft , and 20 % of workers have already changed careers according to a survey from Prudential .
You may be tempted to jump right into your job search by applying for jobs , like sending your application to dozens of employers , but that quick and easy approach isn ’ t always the most successful way to find the job you want .
Here are three go-to strategies to set yourself up for success .
1
EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS Do some research and narrow down your options . What career fields fit best for you ? How can you learn more about the fields you are interested in pursuing ? Here are some resources to help you :
• What Can You Do With This Major ?
• Occupational Outlook Handbook
• O * Net
2
MARKET YOURSELF You only get one chance to make a good first impression . The way you present yourself through your resume and online presence can be the difference between getting an interview and going into the reject pile .
• Spruce up your resume and cover letter . Here are some helpful tips .
• Create a LinkedIn profile and use the professional social media platform to network and conduct informational interviews , job searches and enhance your professional knowledge .
• Consider creating a portfolio , which allows you to showcase your skills , knowledge , and experience ,
and market yourself to employers . Websites Wix and Weebly are good starter portfolio websites .
3
GET A GAME PLAN How will you look and apply for jobs ? How will you make connections in a new field ? Remember , a successful job search is one that uses several different techniques .
• Search for jobs using general websites such as Handshake ( free for GMercyU alumni !) and Indeed or targeted websites geared towards specific career fields .
• Perhaps the most important technique for changing jobs and / or careers is networking . A less intimidating networking approach to focus on is “ informational interviewing .” This involves simply talking with professionals who are currently in occupations you are considering to gain information about a career or organization . No pressure on either side .
GMercyU ’ s Career Development Center is one of the many GMercyU alumni benefits and services offered to you after graduation . Check out our website to utilize the free resources available to you .
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