Keep this is mind while changing careers

Thinking of quitting your job to pursue that long-time hobby or simply take up something which offers a seemingly better prospect? Read on to know the things you need to consider before making the switch.
In today's times, a number of professionals, who are not satisfied with their career path, switch streams without much thought. Most often, these people take up a job or set up a business of which they have no prior experience or relevant degree.
What drives these people to make the move is their interest and passion for pursuing their dream. However, while taking up something that you are enthusiastic about is a good move, there are certain important measures that you need to consider before making the switch.
RESEARCH IS THE KEY
Research is the first and most vital step towards pursuing your goal. One of the important questions that you need to answer is how fruitful the career prospects are in the potential field of work. Also, since you are most likely changing your line of work as a result of stagnancy in your current job, you need to weigh all the pros and cons of the alternate career option you are considering.
SKILLS SET
Swati Pande Nalawade, faculty, marketing and branding at a university says, “It is possible to switch careers without pursuing a degree in that field. But the next best thing to possess, if not a degree, are skills set related to that profession. I have seen a number of students switching fields and doing well. You need to have the acumen and passion for the industry you will be opting for. Also, since there is a high possibility of financial risk as well as of failure, you need to be mentally prepared to take the plunge.“
Addtionally, you need to take into account that you have or are in a position to acquire the skills set required for your new job. If training is necessary, you should make sure it is short-spanned and feasible.
NETWORKS AND MENTORS
While developing the right skills set is important, having a few contacts in the potential industry of work is an added bonus.Taking advice from people who are already part of the industry can prove to be very helpful.
Says Parag Gopale, a marketing professional turned full-time photographer, “It is a challenging journey to quit a corporate job and pursue your passion. I quit when I realised that my interest in photography was taking a backseat. I must say that networking helps build contacts in the industry.“
DEGREE OR NO DEGREE
“Accepting a job in banking at the age of 21 was a good start to my career as an accounting major. But after working for three years in an international bank, I realised that this job and career choice wasn't exactly what I wanted. When I thought of switching my career, my biggest challenge was to believe in my goal. It is not easy to pursue a career without a degree. You have to believe that the choice you make is the right choice, no matter what anybody says to discourage you. Without a relevant degree and with a lot of research, I switched my career from being an accountant to becoming a baker,“ says Dhwani C, recounting her experience.
PARTING WORDS
While switching careers may not be an easy decision to make, the thing to remember is, job satisfaction is the most crucial part of leading a fulfilling professional life. So take that leap of faith before it's too late.
By Maulik Chandarana