Posted by James Adams

There is a dramatic difference between a job and a career. A job is simply something that you do to survive. A career is something you do because you have a calling to it. Changing that ordinary job into a successful career takes planning, research and patience, but it can be done. Here are ten tips to help you find the perfect career.

1. Find out what makes you happy

What do you want your career to provide? Do you want a position that caters to your intelligence? Do you love to work outside? Write a list of all the things that you want from your next position.

2. Take a look at what you do in your spare time

Do you love to cook? Are you always in your garden tending to the vegetables? Do you want to bowl a perfect game? Write down what you love to do. This list will assist you in your next career move.

3. Research

Every career has a name and a definition of duties. Check out a site like the Bureau of Labor Statistics to find out which jobs best match what you want and enjoy. Find out the range of expected salaries for your potential position.

4. Find out what skills you have

What are some of the things that will carry over to the new position? Can you type 80 words a minute? Are you great at managing people? These skills can be a benefit to you.

5. Look into the past

What were the accomplishments at the jobs that you have had? Were you employee of the month? Did you bring your department’s sales up? What do you enjoy about the jobs that you’ve had?

6. Network

Do you know anyone who does the job you want? Talk with them and find out what kinds of jobs are available in their field. The network you develop has front-line knowledge that may not be easily gleaned from a newspaper or website. Look in the local paper for networking meetings.

7. Look for training

Do you know that you need to have X degree or Y certificate? Find out if there are any schools or universities in the area which train for your career. Don’t overlook the online degree and certificate programs.

8. Get an internship

Internships are available in many professions. You can gain first-hand information about your new profession. Architectural and engineering firms offer internships as do many of the skilled trades positions.

9. Job search

Read the job listings. See what you might enjoy and apply for the positions. Ask questions and maintain a positive attitude.

10. Talk with a career counselor

Career counselors have the tools available to assist you with your path. They have questionnaires and assessments. Most of all, a counselor can provide reassurance and direction when choosing a career path.

Researching a new career path can be both frustrating and rewarding. Study what you have done. Find out what you love doing. A new and fulfilling career is just around the corner.

James Adams is a technology analyst who works with a print cartridge store specialising in the supply of ink cartridges to industry and consumers in the UK.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, June 22nd, 2010 at 8:30 am and is filed under Career, Jobs, Resume, Search. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

About the Author: James Adams, is a full time blogger who works with Cartridge Save where he writes about and reviews products such as the HP 21 ink cartridge as well as editing their design blog.