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Transitioning into an Education Career

Have you been sitting back recently, contemplating your future and where you are headed? Are you thinking about changing your career, but not exactly sure where to start?

Well, I’m here to tell you that you are certainly not alone. As a Certified Career Coach and Resume Writer, I often work with individuals who are looking for a rewarding career change, guiding them on their path to a successful life change.

When you have discovered that your once-rewarding and satisfying job no longer provides you with the same excitement and enthusiasm, it may be the time to consider a career change. Complete commitment to this pursuit will open you up to endless career possibilities.

During the course of my career I have worked with many individuals who wanted to change careers and embark on a new challenge, teaching children. I have heard many reasons why mid-career changers are drawn to a career in education, and have ventured to list a few examples.

1. Giving Back to Society:

Many successful professionals have often embraced a career in teaching in order to “give back” to society. They often want to teach the real-world experiences they have learned through hands-on participation in a particular field.

2. Mentoring & Guiding:

Often career changers choose teaching as a means to coach and lead today’s youth and foster in them a passion for learning.

3. Sharing Knowledge & Passion:

I have found that most career changers bring a high level of enthusiasm and dedication as new educators, combined with a solid understanding of diverse subject material.

Beginning the search for a new career can be overwhelming and a bit frightening, to say the least. However, here are a few things that you will want to consider before embarking on your journey:

1. Retraining & Professional Development:

Going back to school will give you a chance to learn your new career and provide you with a greater understanding of the role and how to sustain employment within that area.

2. Interchangeable Skills:

Take a solid look at your skills and determine those that can be applied across different careers. For example, teachers must possess the ability to be creative, organized, disciplined, and self-directed; if you have these skills, showcase them.

3. Maximizing Your Skill Set/Your Resume:

Your resume must emphasize your relevant past career achievements and contributions; be proud to list each and every one. Learn what a school district is looking for in their teachers; their goals and objectives and where they are headed. Once you have drafted your resume, get feedback from someone you trust.

4. Envision the Position:

You may want to envision how you look in the role of your new position, working within that venue day after day. Ask yourself, What parts of the job do I like the best? Am I really interested? Performing this exercise may help you find your right career path.

Focus on the skills you enjoy using the most, and build a career based soundly on your passions and your dreams.

The process of looking for and finding your new career is a huge opportunity for you to develop deeper self-awareness, and it may just be the thing that supercharges your zest for life.

© 2008, TheApple

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