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Even while starting a second career may initially appear intimidating, it is a viable choice. You could have taken some time off from work. Today's college graduates anticipate changing professions at least a few times in their lives, unlike the not-so-distant past when finding a job and staying in one for a long time was the standard.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employees switch jobs an average of 12 times during their careers. A job change may include switching to a different firm for a comparable role in some cases, while in other cases, it may entail starting a completely new second career. The average age of people who pursue a second job is 39, with 49% suggesting a substantial career transition, such as shifting from engineering to communications or marketing to accounting.
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Reasons for a Career Changes
People change occupations and pursue second ones for a variety of reasons:
- A better or more flexible work schedule is desired
- Seeking a position with a stronger sense of purpose
- Be dissatisfied with your current job
- Need a job with less stress
- Seek better perks and benefits
- Want higher salary
- Want to move to a field or business that more closely reflects your values
- Look for remote work
- Want for improved work-life balance
- Feel exploited in your present job field
Effects of career change
When people switch careers, they frequently experience the advantages that first motivated them to do so. Many people brag of achieving benefits such as improved flexibility, better work-life balance, higher salary, less stress, and more fulfillment as a result of changing careers, with 88% of job changers reporting being happier as a result of their transition.
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How to Begin a Second Career
Finding the ideal work match and starting a second career might take an average of 11 months. Therefore, patience is needed. Clarifying the sort of employment you want to shift to, creating the resources, bridging any skill gaps, and finding a new position all take time. To support your success:
Assess your interests and skills
The first step in figuring out how to start a second career is to evaluate your interests and talents, as well as what you disliked about your previous employment.
Boost your skill set
If you lack the knowledge and credentials needed for your new professional path, enroll in a live or online course to fill in the gaps. To have a better understanding of the new job route, you can also decide to shadow other professionals and look for temporary or volunteer positions. This has the added benefit of helping you choose whether you still want to continue that career path.
Look for professional help
From the moment you decide to change careers, career coaches and counselors may provide invaluable help. They can assist you in deciding which career route is best for you, as well as in learning how to expand your skill set, spot transferrable abilities, update your CV, craft effective message, and find your perfect next position.
Top second career options
Based on your current goals, ambitions, and skill set, it might be useful to find jobs that perform well as a second career choice if you're unsure about your new career path. Some of the top second career options are listed below:
- Consultant
- Writer
- Real estate agent
- Teacher/tutor
- Private detective
- Tax preparer
All the jobs on the above list have the excellent benefit of offering flexible and remote working arrangements, if that's something you're interested in. Regardless of your motivations for changing careers, using the tips above as a starting point can help you launch your second career successfully.
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