Any suggestions for a change in career for a smart, hard working guy?
Asked by Jonah A
I live in Salt Lake City and have been working as printing press operator for the last 14 years. I'm just getting really tired of the stress and the physical beating that I have been enduring. I think of myself as a bright person who can learn to do just about anything. I have good computer skills (mostly with Macs), mechanical skills and organizational skills. I'm very accustomed to working hard and solving many problems during a work day and I always strive to become very good at everything I do. I do work well with people...(one on one or in small groups) but, I don't see myself as the sales type (I'm too honest). I do enjoy working as a team with others and training new people. Anyway, I'm looking for any suggestion for a new career. Currently I'm working only 3 days/week (long hours) and have 4 days off. I'm hoping to taking an online course to certify myself for a new job. I'm looking for a career where there is a demand for trained individuals and I can get started soon.

Best Answer:
Try picking up the book "What Color Is Your Parachute?" by Richard Nelson Bolles. Yahoo!/HotJobs as well as Monster.com also have some helpful articles under their Career Tools areas.

Visit your local library and see if they have a copy of "What Color Is Your Parachute?" This is a classic book for changing careers - there are lots of aptitude tests and questions to get you thinking about what you really want to do. You might consider a career with computers, perhaps as a technician, network specialist, or help desk representative. It's fairly easy to get certified (both Mac and Microsoft have certification programs), and it would appear that you have the skills and aptitude for that type of a career. You also appear to have good written communication skills, so that's a plus for any job. Best of luck!
Answered by Mel