Time for a Change?

Step-by-step plan for switching jobs

The days of staying in one job or even one career for your working lifetime are long over. In fact, the
typical employee in the United States stays in the same job for about five years. Are you getting ready
to make a job change? Follow the TopJobs step-by-step plan to make sure your change is for the better.

1. Consider Likes and Dislikes

Changing jobs can involve risk and expense, so explore why you want to make the switch before
sprucing up your resume. Consider what you really like to do with your time. The following table helps
you match your personality to a job type.

Personality types
Dominant Traits Type Example Jobs
Expressive and independent Artistic Graphic designer
Music arranger
Translator
Organized and methodical Conventional Claims adjustor
Budget analyst
Dispatcher
Energetic and ambitious Enterprising Salesperson
Lawyer
Construction manager
Precise and scientific Investigative Optometrist
Software developer
Engineer
Practical and mechanical Realistic Firefighter
Carpenter
Inspector
Helpful and friendly Social Social worker
Physician assistant
Teacher

2. Research Careers
After you figure out what you like to do, learn about jobs that engage your passions, focusing on those
with growth potential. Spend some time reviewing the Occupational Outlook Handbook (bls.gov) to
learn about fast-growing occupations.

Fastest-growing occupations
Occupation Number of Jobs by 2024 Median Annual Wage
Occupational therapist 145,000 $79,000
Physical therapist 282,000 $82,000
Nurse practitioner 171,000 $95,000

This file created specifically for Emily Lavergne

 Personal financial advisor 323,000 $81,000
Web developer 188,000 $64,000
Personal care aide 2,000,000 $21,000
Emergency medical technician 299,000 $32,000
Translator 78,000 $44,000
Operations analyst 118,000 $77,000

3. Estimate Costs
Changing jobs might excite you, but it will also cost you money, even if you are making a move to a
higher-paying job. The following table outlines typical expenses involved in changing jobs.

Typical expenses
Expense Amount
Course work (12 credits) $2400.00
Memberships $250.00
Preparation
Job search materials $150.00
Travel $1200.00
Preparation Subtotal: 0
Professional wardrobe $1000.00
Technology $1100.00
On the Job Relocation $1800.00
**
On the Job Subtotal: Expression is
faulty **
Total: 0

4. Evaluate the New Job

As you start making appointments for interviews, learning about employers, and considering job offers,
make sure you know what’s important to you in the new job. The following table shows an example of
employment factors and how you might rate them. Your rating depends on your needs and
preferences.

Employment factors
Factor Ranking
Salary 1
Benefits 2
Roles and Responsibilities 3

This file created specifically for Emily Lavergne