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Changing careers

Looking to make a smart career change decision? Consider choosing one of occupations projected by the Department of Labor to be among the fastest growing between 2002-2012. 

Making a living without a job : winning ways for creating work that you love
Barbara J. Winter ; foreword by Steve Strauss.
New York : Bantam Books Trade Paperbacks, 2009.
For all of the millions of Americans who are out of work, soon to be out of work, or wishing to be freed from unrewarding work—here is the must-have book that will show you how you can make a living by working when, where, and how you want. Newly revised and updated, Barbara J. Winter’s guide to successful self-employment is now more relevant than ever before. Drawing on the techniques and ideas of her popular seminars as well as her own thirty years of business expertise and that of other successful entrepreneurs, Winter offers the practical, proven way to launch your own profitable venture. Her indispensable advice ranges from why creativity is more important than capital to how to avoid the most common pitfalls of self-employment and how to develop multiple profit centers. And for this new edition, she has added timely advice on topics including: •how to find opportunity in a chaotic economy •why smart, small and spunky is the 21st Century business model •using the Internet to open the door to fresh opportunities •the best resources to help you create and grow a business that is uniquely your own •how to leave Employee Thinking behind and build an Entrepreneur’s Mindset •and much more Here are all of the tools you need for getting the most profit out of life both professionallyandpersonally.
     
Strategies for successful career change : finding your very best next work life
Martha E. Mangelsdorf.
Berkeley [Calif.] : Ten Speed Press, c2009.
Are you ready for a change? Whether you’re seeking a more fulfilling job or rethinking your career goals after a layoff, the questions you face are crucial. InStrategies for Successful Career Change,seasoned business and career journalist Martha E. Mangelsdorf distills lessons from a diverse group of people who have made the leap and landed on their feet. To help you navigate the challenges, pitfalls, and rewards of career transition, this book will show you how to: • Align your professional life with your personal goals • Identify your transferable skills, strengths, and constraints • Explore possible new careers in low-risk ways • Change careers while still paying the bills You’ll assess your current work life and aspirations, while taking into account logistical realities such as finances, health insurance, and family obligations. Through exercises, resources, and inspiring stories from successful career-changers, this supportive and empowering guide will help you find your very best next work life. “If you’re considering a career change, this book should be your go-to resource for insight, strategy, and practical advice. But even better, it serves up the inspiration we all need to do something great, thanks to real stories from people who’ve discovered their best life.” --Keith Ferrazzi, author ofNever Eat AloneandWho’s Got Your Back “The genius of this book is its integration of solid, tried-and-true principles of career change with practical, engaging real-life stories of people who used them. An essential resource for career-changers and those who love them.” --Margaret Benefiel, PhD, author ofSoul at WorkandThe Soul of a Leader “If you’re thinking about changing careers, Martha Mangelsdorf’s book is a must-read. Even if you’re not thinking about changing careers, it’s a should-read. Her fascinating stories about successful career-changers will make you ask yourself vital questions that are all too easy to ignore.” --Bo Burlingham, editor at large of Inc. magazine and author ofSmall Giants: Companies That Choose to Be Great Instead of Big
     
Getting back to work : everything you need to bounce back and get a job after a layoff
Linda K. Rolie.
New York : McGraw-Hill, c2009.
Includes index.
     

The top ten occupations will be in the healthcare or technology fields.  Each is projected to grow between 40-50%. 

Consider choosing a medical career

The fastest growing medical occupations are:

  • Medial assistants
  • Physician assistants
  • Social and human services assistants
  • Home health aides
  • Medical records and health information technicians
  • Physical therapist aides
  • Physician assistant aides

Technology positions will increase

The fastest growing technology occupations are:

  • Network systems & data communications analysts
  • Computer software engineers, applications
  • Computer software engineers, systems software

Earnings in these occupations range from Very Low (averaging under $20,000) for Home health aides to Very High (averaging over $41,000) for Network analysts and Computer engineers. 

Training and educational requirements of each occupation vary from on-the-job to bachelor's degrees.

Article by: St. Louis Public Library staff

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