Changing Jobs or Career

Change can often be scary. We find it difficult to leave what is familiar even when we recognize that change is necessary. So changing jobs, or your whole career, especially after you’ve been working in one place for a long time, can be very daunting.

We can help. Whether your current job does not challenge you enough, pay you enough or you just feel like it’s time to try something new here is some advice that can help you make a successful transition.

• Think about your motives and your goals. Discuss your ideas with family and friends and a career counselor, where possible. Once you are satisfied that a change of job or career is right for you, begin making your plans. Remember to try as much as possible to do something you are good at and that you enjoy.
• Decide on what job you want, look and listen out for vacancies and send in your application letter and up-to-date Curriculum Vitae. You may also be asked to submit a letter of recommendation from your current employer. Have a look at some other information we have for you on getting a job. However, if you would rather be your own boss you can consider opening a business.
• When writing your resignation letter keep it brief, simple and respectful. It should be dated and signed and should state the fact that you are leaving the company’s employ and the effective date of your resignation. Remember to give due notice according to your employer’s regulations.
• Before accepting your new job consider and compare your benefits package as well as other factors such as office hours, workload, commuting distance, proximity to childcare etc. You may have to consider moving house or working overseas. See if any of your previous benefits can be ‘rolled over’ and note that there may be penalties for taking your retirement savings as a lump sum pay-out.
• Wondering what to do once you’ve started in your new position? Here are some important issues to consider when you’ve got a job.
• If you are staying in a similar field you may not require a great deal of new training but it is always a good idea to take refresher courses to sharpen your skills.
• If you are making a complete career change retraining will probably be necessary. This can be a long and expensive process. Can you afford it? Remember that you may not be working during this time and you may still have your family to look after. Find out if you are eligible for unemployment benefits while studying.

Lashley Financial can help you to look over your plans and assess your financial position. Also, look at the information we have for you on going back to school – financing your own education.