From the June 19th issue of Newsweek:
"Changing jobs can be one of the most stressful events in life, but it
can also be an exciting opportunity to pursue one's dreams. How do you
know if a second career is right for you? Take our test to see if a new job might be worth pursuing.
ANSWER YES OR NO:
- Are you thinking in terms of what you want to do in a new career
and not simply in terms of what you want to leave in your current job?
- Is your decision reversible? Could you return to a similar job if you leave for something new?
- Have you thoroughly researched the new field you are considering?
-
If you were to make a change, and for some reason the new job or
business didn't work out, would you think the risk of a new career had
been worth it?
- Do the most important people in your life agree with your contemplated change?
- If necessary, are you prepared to work for a lower salary or income if you start your own business?
- Are you ready to be the new kid on the block in a new job or a rookie in a new business venture?
- Are you ready to prove yourself all over again with a new employer or in a new line of work?
- Are you ready to interact with younger people who may be your peers or even your managers?
-
Are you ready for the possibility that your new career will not meet
your expectations or that you may not succeed in your new job?
RATING YOUR ANSWERS:
If you
answered yes to seven or more questions, you may be ready to take the
plunge. Take part two of our test, which is available online, for ideas
about how you might proceed and what issues you should consider as you
ponder a second career.
If you answered yes to six or fewer, you may not be ready to make a professional career move at this time.
Of course, circumstances sometimes force
people to think about a career change even if they aren't ready for
one. If you find yourself in that
situation, part two of this test can help you evaluate your priorities
as you re-enter the job market.
TEST PREPARED FOR NEWSWEEK BY RICHARD FEIN,
AUTHOR OF NINE BOOKS ABOUT CAREERS INCLUDING HIS LATEST, "THE BABY
BOOMER'S GUIDE TO THE NEW WORKPLACE."