Change

A generation ago, changing careers was unusual. Today, it's not at all uncommon at all, in general, a person in North America will change jobs an average of seven times and careers several times. There are many reasons people change careers; low job satisfaction, need to relocate, finances or perhaps simply wanting to try something new but making a career change can be a very difficult and stressful process. While numerous online job boards are available, individuals using these postings may not get the personal attention they need to navigate their way to a suitable career. Working with a professional career counseling organization can help alleviate some of the anxieties faced by career changers and job seekers as well as answer many important questions.

Research studies have proven that certain factors make a difference when it comes to effective career planning:

• Examine yourself with a comprehensive self-assessment to find your goals, obstacles and values.
• Work with an experienced career counselor who can help you understand what you have discovered about yourself, what you want and what you need in a career.
• Examine your self-assessment results against chosen resources and activities. This will help you create an Action Plan.
• Create an Action Plan with specific goals and strategies on how to achieve them.
• Maintain a support system with your experienced career counselor who can help guide you through your process and rely on friends and family for emotional support since the change can sometimes be stressful.