What to look for in a new career

Many people begin a new year determined to make positive changes in their lives. Some may aspire to read more books in the year ahead, while others may aim to master a new hobby. Professional goals also factor heavily into many people’s New Year’s resolutions.

In a 2019 survey of baby boomers, who are generally defined as people born between 1946 and 1964, the Bureau of Labor

Statistics found that the average person has 12 jobs in his or her lifetime. That means that the average professional is likely to change jobs at various points during his or her career. Working professionals who have resolved to make a career change but don’t know where to begin can facilitate the process by determining what they want out of their next career. Knowing what to look for in a career can help people land a job they will enjoy, and might even prevent them from changing jobs as many as a dozen times before retirement.

Salary: Few people would scoff at being offered higher salaries, but it’s important that professionals looking to change careers don’t place too great an emphasis on a high salary. Take some time to determine how much money you need to maintain your current quality of life and if giving up certain things, like the ability to travel or dine out whenever you’d like, is a price you’re willing to pay for a new career.

Opportunity for advancement: Switching careers is a significant decision that affects all aspects of professionals’ lives, including their families. When looking for a new career, look for one that provides opportunities for advancement after you get your foot in the door.

Positive environment: It can be hard to gauge if a company you don’t work for fosters a positive or negative work environment, but exercising due diligence to determine this can have profound benefits.