Would You Take A Job In Another Industry?

August 2009 Poll Results

August brings with it the dog days of summer, when thoughts often turn to escaping the oppressive heat. And as our monthly poll result revealed, this year there is an urge to escape of a different sort: moving from the industry you already work in, to another one altogether.

Fully 91% of those who responded say that they would consider changing industries. This includes people who might like to make an actual career change (52% of respondents), those who say they need to take the first job they can get (23%), plus employees who feel their industry is suffering and hope to do better elsewhere (16%).

It isn’t difficult to understand why so many of us yearn for change in our employment situation. A job may begin to grow stale over time, becoming routine and less challenging. Your skill sets might not be getting utilized to their best advantage. You chose a career early in life without giving it much thought, but now that you’ve been in the workforce for a while and have seen what else is out there, something more relevant beckons.

But be forewarned: like the lawn of your neighbour after an August sun shower, the grass may look greener in some other industry or occupation; but you’ll want to ensure that it isn’t just a mirage.

That’s why it is so important to take a careful look before you make the leap into something new. With regard to career change, take some time to research potential pathways. Speak to people who are actually doing the type of work you’re considering. Get a variety of opinions to ensure you make an educated, balanced decision.

Same thing with industries or sectors. What are the key trends in these fields? Is the industry growing or contracting? What types of experience and credentials are those employers looking for when hiring?

Conducting your “due diligence” in advance can make the difference between a successful transition and serious disappointment. Since your objective in moving from your current job is to find something more satisfying, try not to overlook red flags in prospective career paths. Then, when you are well-informed and are confident there is a fit between a fresh path and your personal style, experience and skills, muster your marketing resources and go for the gusto. Head over to Monster.ca and begin your job search in earnest!

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