The pandemic has had colossal effects on the economy, the travel industry, the office environment and most importantly, the way we perceive work. Due to lockdowns and stay-at-home mandates, a lot of people have gotten the time to reassess what they really want in life. Whether it’s to pursue a higher-paying job or to focus more on family time, it’s clear that no one wants to settle for less.
Why are people resigning?
You’ve probably seen the news with the headline, “the great resignation.” Workers have been quitting jobs at historic rates, to a point where there is a shortage of employees in some industries. It’s no secret that a lot of people were unhappy and some decided to try out new careers. Nonetheless, there’s no better time than now to make a career shift.
Why Change Careers?
- Money and stability. Some jobs pay better than others, especially in the tech industry. That’s more than enough reason for people to change careers. There’s an interesting story about Oil and Gas workers in Newfoundland who are changing careers to work in the tech sector. Some of these people are old but they’ve taken the initiative to self-teach themselves how to code. Check out this article to see how they made a career shift.
- Work culture. Some companies don’t treat their employees with respect. That and many other things can make someone quit. Work culture can also be prevalent in the type of job. For instance, a sales environment will be fast and performance-based. Some people are just not cut out for that.
- Interest. Maybe you’re not passionate about your current job; every day feels like a drag and a never-ending cycle. Lack of interest can lead to poor performance, low morale and stress, thus affecting the quality of life. Try to do something you love.
- Stress. Some jobs are more stressful than others. It took the pandemic for people to think about the mental effects of stress in the work environment. A job that is more flexible with good working conditions is more desirable.
- Challenge. Different individuals expect different outcomes in life. This also applies to the challenges they face. Maybe the job you’re in is not challenging enough and you feel overqualified. Getting something that can keep up with your skills will be a good move for career advancement.
- Growth. Do you feel stuck in the same job without any career advancement? Working in a company that has a clear growth path is more sustainable in the long run. This also applies to the type of job. If you don’t have enough skills to advance, take some courses and make yourself more marketable. There’s always room to grow.
- Happiness. People just work better when they’re happy.
How to advance your career?
There are many platforms, resources and programs that can help you advance your career or make a complete shift. Take a look.
- Go back to school. Enroll in any college or University. It doesn’t matter if it’s a community college or a prestigious institution. After all, you have to factor in how much money you’re willing to spend.
- Tuition-free options. There are many free resources on the internet that can further advance your career. A basic Google search can guide you. Take a look at this US-accredited, tuition-free university called the University of The People.
- Work opportunities and scholarships. Depending on where you work. Your job might have free courses or educational opportunities that you can take advantage of. Take a look at Walmart’s tuition-free program. There are also various scholarships that you may be eligible for.
- Learn a new skill. Take the initiative and checkout platforms like Coursera, Udemy, Edx, Skillshare and Codeacademy. Note, a lot of jobs in the tech sector are more lenient on the type of education you have. What matters is your knowledge, and a portfolio showcasing your skills.
- Take a career Bootcamp. Some courses are tailored to help you start a new position in a specific job. The most popular boot camps are for coding or tech-related jobs. Find your interest.
- Apply to new jobs. Sometimes that’s all you need to do to start a new career.
- Have a plan and execute it. Don’t quit without starting a new job or having an alternative source of income. Don’t do it because everyone is doing it. Do it because you see a brighter better future for yourself.
- Online opportunities. There are plenty of jobs and online opportunities that can easily transform someone’s life. From blogging to owning a successful business, it can be done. Checkout this article to learn more.
There are also numerous examples of people who have transitioned to owning successful online businesses. Take a look at this 24 year old who now makes $8600 a month online, after loosing her waitress job.
