The Smart Resume Blog

Thinking about changing careers? Here are five tips to help you jumpstart your new career.

1. Take Classes

Depending on what kind of career change you are looking to make, you might need more education. Many community colleges and universities offer affordable continuing education classes for working professionals. With most schools, classes are held at all times including nights, weekends, and online.

2. Read

Not sure what books to read? Check out Amazon’s Listmania. Listmania is full of product suggestions written by professionals, self-proclaimed experts, and avid readers. These lists can provide tons of suggestions for getting started in any subject area. Also check out trade magazines, journals, and blogs covering your interests.

3. Join Professional Organizations

Becoming a member of any professional organization gives you an opportunity to join a community of professionals with similar interests and goals. Membership benefits can include exclusive access to presentations, seminars, networking events, and job postings. Joining also provides opportunities to learn about industry trends, guidelines, and best practices. Membership dues may be tax deductible so check with your tax advisor.

4. Volunteer

Seek out opportunities to volunteer at events and organizations that interest you. Although volunteering may involve some grunt work, most offer great perks including free access to events, classes, and seminars. In exchange for work, you’ll meet people, attend great events (for free), build a network of associates, and learn more about your chosen field.

5. Ask For Informational Interviews

Informational interviews can help you learn about a particular profession from the source. With the Internet, many successful professionals are accessible either by phone, IM, e-mail, or even in person. If you find someone you would like to talk to, e-mail him and ask for an informational interview. If you can’t meet them in person, send your questions in an e-mail. Ask questions about their education, career path, and job responsibilities. Once they respond, don’t forget to send a thank you note.