Cory Said:

My husband just retired from over 30 years of teaching. He wants a career change. What can he do?

We Answered:

If he's been teaching for 30 years I would imagine he has good people skills and likes to be around people. Is he a talker? As a teacher, he was probably a good communicator. I would tell him not to dismiss the idea of sales. He may be thinking of sales as a person who knocks on doors with sweeper brushes. NOT SO! I've been in sales and retail for years and a good salesman spends almost all his or her time educating their customers. As a manager, I've had several retired teachers and substitute teachers work for me and they are absolutely the best at customer service and sales. They know how to present information without talking over people's heads - something they have developed as a teacher! They are not easily ruffled when customers are upset or something goes wrong - again, experience in the trenches of the classroom! I, myself, have a degree in secondary education. Since I chose to specialize in social studies - and didn't know how to coach football - I was unable to find work. I have been in retail sales and management for 20 years and find it suits me quite well. Teachers know how to manage time, respond calmly in emotional situations, present ideas, be enthusiastic about new programs, and are also fine merchandisers. (again, a skill not that unlike themed displays a teacher makes for the classroom!)

I hope you're husband will reconsider going into sales. He can start by going to his favorite store and putting in an application. Does he like Home Improvement, Sports, Movies, Books, or Cars? Whatever his passion is, there is a store that caters to it. And he'll be able to talk to people all day about something he loves.

I hope this helps. He certainly is lucky to have a second crack at a great career! Best Wishes!!

Nathaniel Said:

career change after failed student teaching?

We Answered:

Been there, done that, got the t-shirt! My major was education until I had to complete my junior year teach! Yikes, what a mess!

Run, don't walk to your school's Career Center! Talk with a career counselor about your career path! There are other careers that are similar to teaching, but where you don't need a certificate. (Corporations hire "training specialists". I ended up as a College Professor!!)

Good luck