I’ve got a good job...but am unhappy with my present career choice. Should I stay where I am, or make the career move that I’m contemplating?

Cindy via FAX

Dear Cindy,

Many people put a lot of time and energy into deciding what career path is the "right" one for them. On the other hand, many people put NO time or energy into that same decision. Whatever group you fall in, years later your likes, dislikes, interests, etc. may change, thus leaving you dissatisfied with what you’re doing. This is normal. However, the answer to your question has to be answered with several more questions... Are you a family supporter? Are you working because you HAVE to or because you WANT to? Is there opportunity in the field you desire within your desired geographic area? IS THERE MUCH OPPORTUNITY AT ALL? Are you, and your ego, mentally ready to "start all over"?

You must weigh all the factors. If you’re two years into your career, you are probably in a better situation to switch careers than if you’ve been in the same field for 25 years. However, if the two fields are related, you may find that you’re not underqualified for the move. Investigate the qualifications that you may need for the new desired field. You may have to continue with your education, or gain practical experience as an intern or volunteer, or you may even find that you have some skills that can be easily transferred to a new job in the new field. The answer to this question is not an easy one (and is different for every person). It must be a thoughtful conclusion. This is your career!

If you choose not to seek the assistance of a career counselor, I have a terrific, little known secret called What Color Is Your Parachute?, by Richard Nelson Bolles. It’s published by Ten Speed Press, and you should get a copy and read it thoroughly.

What Color Is Your Parachute is a practical manual for job hunters and career-changers. It outlines, quite colorfully, every aspect of job hunting. The book is divided up into the "white" pages and the "pink" pages. The white pages are dedicated to showing you how the job-hunt process works and how to make it work better for you. Chapters include "Rejection Shock", "WHAT Skills Do You Enjoy Most Using?", and "HOW Do You Find the Person Who Has the Power to Hire You?" among others. The pink pages offer insights, a hands-on guide to creating a "picture" of your ideal job, and resources for finding out just about anything career related.

If you go out and get this book, and you read it cover to cover, and you understand everything it offers... go into career counseling, because you will be strongly versed in career options.