For some, a change of career is a necessity – loss of jobs due to downsizing seems to be quite common in today’s times. For others, a change of career is a welcome adventure for a change of scenery or to learn new skills. Either way, doing some career research is very important to ensure you are making the right decision. Today’s market is different than 20 years ago – and so is the education system.

A first start may be to check out your affinity for certain types of careers. Taking a career test can help you figure out what you really want to do – or should be doing based on your personality type. Outgoing, gregarious people may find a career in entertainment, public speaking, or politics. Whereas those who like attention to detail and orderliness may find a career in a professional trade, in accounting or in management.

The next thing to consider is today’s job market. Ask around and find out what types of jobs are needed now. Who is hiring, and why? For example, it may not be a good idea to start a career in manufacturing cars and trucks. Then there are industries that are always seeking employees – like the medical industry. North American has a severe shortage in nursing and doctors. Or, if you have a broader look at medicine, you might consider alternative medicine such as accupucture and chiropractic.

Some good places to go asking about the job market of today is your local government employement office – in Canada that would be the Service Canada website. Another place may be your local Temp Agency. Go in or phone and ask what kinds of jobs the market is looking for right now. Avoid making the mistake for training in an industry that has jobs already saturated in the market.