What are the most effective ways to research a new career field?

When thinking about why you're attracted to a particular career field, it's helpful to divide the reasons into extrinsic and intrinsic motivations. Extrinsic motivations are external factors such as salary and prestige. Intrinsic motivations are internal factors such as being genuinely interested in the subject area and finding it rewarding to work with the type of clients in that career field. While both extrinsic and intrinsic motivations are relevant to take into account in your decision, intrinsic motivations are more impactful for long-term happiness and satisfaction. Setting these out in two columns for each field/opportunity you're interested in will help you identify which option is most likely to be right for you in the long run.

Before you dive into researching a new career field, it is important to have a clear idea of what you are looking for and why. What are your main reasons for wanting a change? What are your short-term and long-term goals? What are your core values, passions, and strengths? What are your preferred work environment, culture, and style? What are your salary and benefit expectations? What are your educational and professional qualifications and requirements? Having a list of your goals and criteria will help you focus your research and evaluate your options objectively.

One can ask the following questions to get started with career transition: 1. What is not working in current job? (Compendation, work life balance, motivation etc) 2. What is missing in the current role? ( growth, learning, impact etc) 3. Research Which field can offer all or most of the above? 4. What you can't afford to compromise in new career? 5. Which of the new career options can build on your current transferable skills?

Researching a new career field? Check out the following points: 1. Do you have a Career Plan? Your career plan is your guide to your career pathing (change). Consult a career or life coach to help you derive a career plan & create your career pathing. 2. It's not about the money (salary), but your contribution in life! Find out how the career you're interested in can improve humanity. The greater your positive impact on humanity, the more you'll be rewarded in return. 3. A new career should not impact you negatively. Check to see if any new career will affect you in any negative way: - Consuming more of your time, energy, family commitments, and so on. A career should be your source of satisfaction & fulfillment...! Here's how

"Before embarking on a career transition, it's crucial to consider the financial aspect. Take a close look at the timeline for your transition into the new career. Identify any financial commitments you'll need to fulfill during periods when you may not be earning, and strategize on how to support yourself during this transition phase. Planning for a smooth transition involves understanding the financial implications and ensuring you have a solid plan in place to sustain yourself until you start generating a steady income in your new career."

Exploring a new career field is easy and accessible with the help of online resources. Websites, blogs, podcasts, videos, and social media platforms offer valuable information about different career fields. O*NET Online is a comprehensive database of occupational information that covers hundreds of jobs, their tasks, skills, outlook, education, and more. CareerOneStop is a website sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor that provides tools and resources for career exploration, training, and job search. The Muse is a career platform that features articles, advice, and company profiles to help you find your dream job and grow your career.

Conducting informational interviews is an effective way to research a new career field. These informal conversations provide insight into a specific career, industry, or employer from someone who has firsthand experience. Moreover, they can help you expand your network, gain referrals, and get feedback on your resume and skills. To conduct informational interviews, you should first identify potential contacts through your existing network, online platforms, professional associations, or alumni groups.

Gaining a hands-on experience of a certain career, industry, or organization is possible by volunteering or shadowing someone who works in that field. Doing this can help you develop new skills, demonstrate your enthusiasm, and make a positive impression. To start volunteering or shadowing, you should first find opportunities through online platforms, local organizations, or your network. Then, apply and get accepted by submitting your resume and cover letter, highlighting your relevant skills and interests, and showing your motivation and availability. Finally, learn and contribute by observing and asking questions, participating and helping out, and seeking feedback and guidance

In my own journey, I've undergone several transitions. The initial shift was driven by a desire for recognition, success, increased financial rewards. I decided to establish a business aligned with my skills & educational qualifications. Setting a one-year timeline for this transition, I not only met but exceeded my goals in just nine months. Collaboration played a key role—I partnered with a reliable individual whose skills complemented mine, creating a powerful combination essential for success. We carefully planned and strategized on how to fulfill financial obligations during this period of change. Ensuring a solid financial foundation made the transition smooth. Together, we navigated the challenges and emerged victorious.

Rather than approaching it from a specific career perspective, it's helpful to get clear in your mind what you definitely do, and definitely don't want: - What time of day do you find you have the most energy? - When would be the worst time of day for you to work? - What about the best? - Do you prefer to work alone, or in a shared workspace? - Do you like to work from home remotely, or would you prefer to travel in to a place of work? - How much time are you willing to spend commuting each day? - Do you mind what you wear to work e.g. uniform or not? - What about the environment - indoor or outdoor etc. Really get clear on what your ideal working day would look like and use this to help guide you happily into your next career.