Have you been thinking about making a career change? If so, you should consider making that change immediately. Although there is never an ideal time to change jobs, you have to make the transition as smooth as possible for yourself and your family. Here are some good reasons why now is the best time to change careers.
1) The Job Market Is Improving
The job market is forecast to improve over the next year or so. As the job market gets stronger, it will be easier for everyone to find work. This makes it easier for you to find a new job if you are thinking about switching careers in the near future.
2) There Isn't As Much Competition in January
Generally, there isn't as much
competition for jobs during the winter months. December is a slow month due to the holiday season and January is seen as a time when employers finalize budgets and figure out which positions need to be filled. However, sending in an application or networking during the winter months can be a great way to find a job or put you in the running for a position when it becomes available.
3) Employers May Be Willing To Pay For Any Necessary Training
Employers may be
willing to pay for any certifications that you need to complete your training. For example, a school district may be willing to pay for your graduate school courses if you need them to keep your initial teaching certification. When an employer foots the bill for your education or other training, it removes a significant hurdle to your career change.
4) Past Freelance And Volunteer Experience Can Be Helpful
In previous years, many people turned to freelance work or volunteer opportunities as a way to stay busy or earn some cash on the side. As the economy recovers, those freelance and volunteer experiences may have given you the necessary skills to gain a position in a field that you have always wanted to work in.
5) Avoid Burnout
Changing careers every so often can be a great way to avoid burnout. In many cases, people who work in a particular field have skills that can transfer to a different career field. For example, those who have experience in marketing may decide to work as a business consultant or start their own company. Their marketing skills allow them to start their own company because they know how to sell a product regardless of what it is.
There is no perfect time to change careers. However, if you are thinking about taking that leap, now is the time to do it. Once you get started, you will find that it may be easier than you had imagined it to be. With an improving economy,
job opportunities should be increasing for those looking for work in a new field.