How to Know If You're Ready For a Career Change in 10 Steps

Just because you are bored at work is not reason enough to throw in the towel and quit. Making the decision to change careers is a huge one that should not be taken lightly. There are many things to consider and pathways to take which we have outlined for you below in an easy 10-step process.

* Step 1: Assessment of likes/dislikes- Finding things you don't like in your job are easy if you're thinking about quitting. But also think of the things you like so you can identify them easier at an interview. Rediscover yourself and you might discover a direction for your career change.

* Step 2: Researching new careers- Once you've discovered your passions, research which jobs fit them. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook can help find a job that matches what you enjoy. Our section about on-ramping might give you some good pointers as well.

* Step 3: Transferable skills- A lot of jobs help give you skills needed in multiple career atmospheres. Figure out which skills you have that will apply to your new job.

* Step 4: Training and education- Go slowly! If you are trying to get a new degree, take only a few classes at a time to make sure you enjoy it. If you are training for something that could be used in your current job, see if they don't mind paying for it. If you are worried about paying for classes, check out StudentFinanceDomain.com.

* Step 5: Networking- Colleagues, friends and family members all are part of your network. They can help you find job leads, offer you advice and information about a particular company or industry, and introduce you to others so that you can expand your network.

* Step 6: Gaining experience- Two words: Part-time and volunteering. Remember, you're starting completely over. No job is too small and every job is valuable.

* Step 7: Finding a mentor- Pretty self-explanatory. Keep in mind that your mentor can help expand your network in your search for a career change.

* Step 8: Changing in or out- Don't overlook your current employer. Although you might not be happy with the position you have now, somewhere else in the same company might suit you better. Remember; don't bring up a change until you are 100 percent sure that it is what you want.

* Step 9: Job-hunting basics- Do not let your ego get in the way. Chances are it has been a long time since you've been on a job hunt. Research interview tactics, resume builders, cover letter resources and salary negotiation resources.

* Step 10: Be flexible- A lot of things will come at you sideways. Look at things positively and think about moving laterally to make a bigger career move later.

Melissa Rubin is a senior copywriter and Web developer at OTO Networks, a digital marketing company located in Baltimore, Maryland. Her primary responsibilities include SEO, link building and creating content for multiple sites. A preview of a site on which she has worked, http://www.ModernWorkforce.com, is available with this article.