Warren Said:

I would like a career change. I want to study to be an IT consultant and more. Where do I start?

We Answered:

When looking at potential roles, you need to look at what you would be doing on a daily basis, what qualifications and skills are required, what kind of demand there is for people in this industry/position, what the earning potential is and what opportunities there are for career progression.

When you are considering a career move, it is helpful to talk to employers and industry experts about the skills, experience and qualities that they look for in a candidate. Speaking to a careers counsellor or your Recruitment Consultant can also give you an insight into what jobs may be options for you based on your skill set.

When seeking a new career, you need to consider how your natural abilities, personality, skills, experience and lifestyle match potential jobs.

Understand what skills and experience you possess that are transferable to a new position - what skills do you have in your current career that can lead to a successful transition to another position

Build links from your current position to potential new roles by undertaking studies and joining industry associations.

It can be very helpful to undertake additional studies at a TAFE or university to upgrade your skills. A word of warning though – when looking at study options, research the likelihood of obtaining a job afterwards. There are a lot of expensive courses out there and before devoting precious time and money you need to check out whether potential employers are interested in people who are qualified in this skill set.

Consider the financial implications. If you make a career change, you may need to be prepared to start again at the bottom of the ladder. Initially, you may have to start on a lower salary – can you afford to make the change?


Good luck!

Monica Said:

Petroleum geology for a career change?

We Answered:

The geology industry is desperate for geologists. Any experience is good experience. They're even snapping up brand new graduates with 0 years experience.

With petroleum companies, it doesn't matter. As long as you have the degree. They are going to train you in every little way as to how they do things.

I don't think your experience in environmental is a negative (too liberal? wtf? Oil companies have environmental departments). What you need to start doing is contacting the companies you are interested in and do not discount smaller operations. In fact, you might be happier there than a big company like ExxonMobil or BP.

Also, do not discount mining and quarrying industries. Very good pay, you use more of your geology (and environmental) background. Its still raping the planet, but usually those industries have less greedy republicans running around and the owners of mines and quarries aren't gouging us for every last cent like the oil companies are.

Anyhow, like I said, you just need to start contacting companies you think you would like to work for. Phone or in person is best. Email is OK, but impersonal and cannot convey enthusiasm.

Greg Said:

Do you think this is a good career change?

We Answered:

If you are unhappy in your current job, despite what people tell you about "the financial climate" etc, I don't think you should force yourself to commit to it for the rest of your life. Instead, yes, apply for this other job. Take an afternoon off for "the dentist" and go to the interview. That way IF you don't get it, you won't lose face with your current employers if they think you're not a team player. If the interview asks you why you want to leave your current position (which they usually do) tell them the truth - you trained for this role and you would love the opportunity to pursue this career, and you're currently working in this position to gain customer service experience (most recruiters love that one). Do what makes you happy!

Carl Said:

Career Change from Higher Ed Administrator to Corporate Executive?

We Answered:

Hi! I have some ideas, but no clear cut answer. I'm actually in the same boat as you. 20 years in higher ed and ready to go to the other side! I tried to craft my resume in a different way to focus on skills and not throw higher ed all over the page. During my last job search I gave in and took another higher ed position though because I couldn't find anything in my pay range. I think you have to be willing to accept a lesser salary than what you currently make and many places will assume you are "entry level" until they can really physically see how your skills carry over. The only chance we have is if someone "on the other side" has insight into higher ed so that they can understand what our positions entail. Good luck!