6 Signs You're in the Wrong Career

If these warning signs are flaring up, it may be time to reevaluate your career.


By Chris Kyle

Your career is like a relationship...

Things can go from good to bad - and back to good again - in a flash.

In most cases, tough times at work are just temporary and quickly cure themselves. But when career pain becomes chronic, then it's time to consider making a change.

Check out these 6 signs that you're in the wrong career and learn about some solutions for getting into the right career for you.

Sign #1 - You want to make more money.

There's nothing wrong with wanting a bigger paycheck. It may not happen overnight, but if you're committed to this goal there are things you can do to work toward it.

Solutions:

•As a general rule, the more advanced degree you earn, the more money you'll make. This is true in almost every field including nursing, business, health care, and criminal justice.

•Management-level jobs also mean more money, so consider enrolling in an MBA program.

•Fields such as finance and accounting have some great salary numbers - especially at management levels.

Hot Training Options:

Bachelor's Degree in Finance

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Average Salary:

Office Managers: $45,790

Financial Analysts: $73,150

General Managers: $91,570

Search for Business schools and degree programs now.

Sign #2 - You are bored with your job.

Watching the minutes melt away at work isn't just boring; it's bad for you and bad for your company.

Solutions:

•Whether it's transitioning to another job in your company, or making a career change, pursuing your passion is a good place to start.

•Julia Child didn't learn how to cook until the age of 37, when she enrolled at Le Cordon Bleu. If you love the culinary arts, consider going to cooking school.


•Take the time to discover what moves you - and what careers can make use of your skills - whether it's graphic design, web design, interior design, or something else entirely.

Hot Training Options:

Associate's Degree in Graphic Design

Culinary Arts Certificate

Average Salary:

Photographers: $29,440

Chefs: $38,770

Graphic Designers: $42,400

Start pursuing your passion. Find the right Art school for you!

Sign #3 - You are getting passed over for promotion.

No matter the job or the circumstances, watching others leapfrog you at work is a difficult thing to endure.

Solutions:

•The key is to demonstrate that you deserve a promotion. Let your boss know that you have aspirations to move up and ask for areas where you can improve your performance.

•Consider adding to your qualifications by getting a certificate or degree.

•For those looking to move into management, you can handpick the MBA program that's right for you, whether it's management, marketing, or human resources.

•Keep in mind that many companies offer tuition assistance plans to ease the cost of going to school.

Hot Training Options:

Bachelor's Degree in Marketing

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Average Salary:

Sales Managers: $97,260

Financial Managers: $99,330

Information Systems Managers: $112,210

Search for local and online MBA programs.

Sign #4 - You are afraid of getting laid off.

It's no secret that the unemployment rate is up, making job security a common concern for many Americans. But if your lack of job security is detracting from your work, it may be time to focus on long-term career stability.

Solutions:


•Some careers are more stable than others. If you are fearful that you will lose your job, start putting together a plan for other careers that fit your qualifications and personality.

•Education may be part of an effective long-term strategy, or even a near-term one, since there are plenty of shorter training programs, like a paralegal studies certificate or a technology support certificate.

•Consider career tracks that are growing - not shrinking. For example, the U.S. Department of Labor forecasts excellent job prospects for medical assistants, accountants, and nurses.

Hot Training Options:

Paralegal Studies Certificate

Medical Assisting Certificate

Technology Support Certificate

Average Salary:

Medical Assistants: $28,300

Paralegals: $46,120

Computer Support Specialists: $46,370

Search for certificate training programs.

Sign #5 - You search job postings while at work.

Trolling for a new job while on the clock isn't just dangerous; it's inappropriate. It's also an indication that all is not well at work.

Solutions:

•First of all, stop! You'll only make things worse if the boss or a co-worker nabs you.

•Next, start using your free time to beef up your resume and network.

•Earning a certificate is a quick way to boost your qualifications. With some previous education, you may be able to get the education you need to start a career like medical assisting or paralegal in as little as 18-24 months.

•Getting a degree, while it's a longer commitment, can indicate to potential employers that you have the necessary skills and drive to succeed.

Hot Training Options:

Associate's Degree in Paralegal Studies

Bachelor's Degree in Accounting

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Average Salary:

Associate Degree: $39,572

Bachelor's Degree: $53,300

Master's Degree: $65,364

Find local and online degree programs now.

Sign #6 - You dread waking up in the morning.

Hitting the snooze button isn't a warning sign that you're in the wrong career, but having recurring nightmares about your job could be a signal that it's time to make a change.

Solutions:

•Do a self-assessment or talk to a career counselor. What's bothering you at work - and why? If it's time to change careers, make sure you look before you leap.•Getting a degree can arm you with the skills and confidence you need to make the transition.

•Going to school at night or online may allow you to keep your current job while looking for a new one.

•Health care is one hot option. The industry is ripe with employment opportunities.

Hot Training Options:

Associate's Degree in Medical Assisting

Bachelor's Degree in Health Care Administration

Medical Technician Certificate

Average Salary:

Medical Records Technicians: $30,610

Registered Nurses: $62,450

Health Services Managers: $80,240

Search for online Health Care training programs.

*Salary data comes from the U.S. Department of Labor using 2008 survey info, except average salaries for different degrees, which comes from 2009 figures for persons age 25 and older.