In difficult economic times many people find themselves having to consider making a career change in order to remain gainfully employed or compete in a difficult job market. Even when the economy improves many people are simply bored with their current jobs, which lead to a lack of productivity, so a career change may be on the cards.

However, changing careers is not something that can be undertaken lightly or without a good deal of planning. Here are a few do’s and don’ts that one should keep in mind when thinking about a career change:

DO develop a solid plan for your career change. There is a lot more to such a course of action than waking up one morning and deciding you want to switch your job as a secretary for a career as an interior designer simply because someone told you last week your living room was arranged very nicely.

DON’T worry if the idea of making a career change scares the heck out of you. Such feelings are perfectly normal, we all like at least a little comfort and security.

DO expect to have to put in a good deal of time and effort when changing careers, but DON”T allow yourself to become discouraged too quickly. These things simply take time but are often very satisfying at the end of it all.

DO consider your personal passions when considering a career change. It may be an old cliché but if you love what you do you really are going to be ten times more successful and productive. You should also consider your dislikes as well. For instance if the sight of blood makes you nauseous, a career in nursing is probably not for you, however well it might pay.

DO find ways to gain experience in your new career choice before you quit your current job. Volunteer in your chosen field in some way or undertake a part time unpaid internship to gain experience and confidence.

DO realize that you may need to return to school to gain extra education in order to change careers successfully but DON’T enroll in the first school you come across, do your research first and make sure that the program of study really will be helpful, as education rarely ever comes cheap these days.

DO realize that in order to make a career change you will need to be flexible. You are basically starting out all over again, so you may have to take a paycut or relocate in order to be successful.