There are plenty of reasons to consider a second career. You could be burnt out in your current job. Perhaps you have transferable skills that you'd like to bring to a new industry. You might be moving to a location where your current job is in short supply. Or maybe you're just interested in something new. Whatever the reason, a well-prepared transition to a second career can revitalize your professional life.
So what's the first step to take when exploring a second career? "When considering a second career and your transferable skills, think about your experience from a broader perspective," says Jessica Campbell, human resources manager at Voices.com. "What kinds of skills did you acquire in your previous position -- like interpersonal, communication and organizational skills -- that you could use anywhere? These are the types of skills that can be transferred to a second career."
Also learn about what opportunities are out there before you take the plunge. "Before considering a second career, please do your research," Campbell adds. "There is nothing more disappointing and defeating than putting your time, energy and money into an educational or skills path that does not result in a job for you in the end because there are no jobs to be had. There are some job markets that are so saturated with new graduates and existing workers that there is no hope for full-time work, or in some instances, even casual work. Talk to people who are already working in the career you are thinking of pursuing, as they will be your strongest assets when deciding on a career and career path."
If you're ready for a second career, you may find luck with any of the following eight occupations. These jobs require varying levels of education and experience, but all are predicted to grow at a fast pace over the next several years.
1. Home health and personal care aides help people who are disabled, chronically ill or cognitively impaired. They also help older adults who may need assistance. They help with activities such as bathing and dressing, and they provide services such as light housekeeping.
So what's the first step to take when exploring a second career? "When considering a second career and your transferable skills, think about your experience from a broader perspective," says Jessica Campbell, human resources manager at Voices.com. "What kinds of skills did you acquire in your previous position -- like interpersonal, communication and organizational skills -- that you could use anywhere? These are the types of skills that can be transferred to a second career."
Also learn about what opportunities are out there before you take the plunge. "Before considering a second career, please do your research," Campbell adds. "There is nothing more disappointing and defeating than putting your time, energy and money into an educational or skills path that does not result in a job for you in the end because there are no jobs to be had. There are some job markets that are so saturated with new graduates and existing workers that there is no hope for full-time work, or in some instances, even casual work. Talk to people who are already working in the career you are thinking of pursuing, as they will be your strongest assets when deciding on a career and career path."
If you're ready for a second career, you may find luck with any of the following eight occupations. These jobs require varying levels of education and experience, but all are predicted to grow at a fast pace over the next several years.
1. Home health and personal care aides help people who are disabled, chronically ill or cognitively impaired. They also help older adults who may need assistance. They help with activities such as bathing and dressing, and they provide services such as light housekeeping.
Typical education requirement: Less than high school
Job outlook, 2010-20: 70 percent (much faster than average**)Median annual pay: $20,170
2. Interpreters and translators convert information from one language to another. Interpreters work in spoken or sign language, translators in written language.
Typical education requirement: Bachelor's degree
Job outlook, 2010-20: 42 percent (much faster than average)
Median annual pay: $43,300
3. Market research analysts study market conditions in local, regional or national areas to examine potential sales of a product or service. They help companies understand what products people want, who will buy them and at what price.
Typical education requirement: Bachelor's degree
Job outlook, 2010-20: 41 percent (much faster than average)
Median annual pay: $60,570
4. Meeting, convention and event planners coordinate all aspects of professional meetings and events. They choose meeting locations, arrange transportation and coordinate other details.
Typical education requirement: Bachelor's degree
Job outlook, 2010-20: 44 percent (much faster than average)
Median annual pay: $45,260
5. Occupational therapy assistants and aides work under the direction of occupational therapists in treating patients with injuries, illnesses or disabilities through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. They help these patients develop, recover and improve the skills needed for daily living and working.
Typical education requirement: Associate degree
Job outlook, 2010-20: 41 percent (much faster than average)
Median annual pay: $47,490
6. Physical therapists help people who have injuries or illnesses improve their movement and manage their pain. They are often an important part of rehabilitation and treatment of patients with chronic conditions or injuries.
Typical education requirement: Doctoral or professional degree
Job outlook, 2010-20: 39 percent (much faster than average)
Median annual pay: $76,310
7. Physical therapist assistants and aides work under the direction of physical therapists. They help patients who are recovering from injuries, illnesses and surgeries regain movement and manage pain.
Typical education requirement: Associate degree
Job outlook, 2010-20: 45 percent (much faster than average)
Median annual pay: $37,710
8. Secretaries and administrative assistants perform routine clerical and organizational tasks. They organize files, draft messages, schedule appointments and support other staff.
Typical education requirement: High school diploma or equivalent
Job outlook, 2010-20: 12 percent (about as fast as average)
Median annual pay: $34,660
