March 2005
Changing careers is one of the biggest decisions job-seekers face. The number one reason people stay in a job that’s not a good fit is “Fear of the Unknown.” Treat the fear not as a red light telling you to stop, but as a yellow light saying proceed with caution. To manage the anxiety and reduce your risk, develop a career plan that forms a bridge from your current career to your next one.

Begin by evaluating your interests, skills, values, personality and experience. Identify your strengths and weaknesses to build a foundation for your career plan. The FOCUS II career planning web site available through the Career Exploration Office may be a good place to start this self-assessment process.

Use the self-assessment information to identify potential occupations. Utilize the Internet to explore and gather occupational information. The US Department of Labor is a great resource for current information. Also review trade magazines and business publications for new trends in specific industries. Talk to professionals within each career area of interest to gain a better understanding of the career and the environment. Identify the barriers and obstacles and set goals to overcome them.

There is a price to pay for leaving a career, but there is also a price for staying in a career that you don’t like. When the price to stay exceeds the price to leave, you’re ready to move on!

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and Strong Interest Inventory self assessments are available through the Career Exploration Office. For more information on the Buckeye Career Assessment Package of career services, check the CEO web site: www.careers.ohiostatealumni.org
Are you looking for information about new opportunities in your current career, a new career direction, or job search strategies? Are you considering relocating and need information about community resources? The Buckeye Network online alumni database is available to members of the OSU Alumni Association. The Buckeye Network is NOT a job placement service, resume posting board or a job listing; but it is a valuable tool to learn about careers and make connections with fellow Buckeyes. www.ohiostatealumni.org

You have received this email in response to an inquiry made to the Career Exploration Office. If you do not wish to receive the CEO Career Tune-Up, please send your request to be removed from the mailing list to careerexploration@osu.edu.