In this rapidly changing world, it is no surprise that job seekers are looking for security and stability. Honestly, who really wants to be in job search again any time soon? But I don't think that should be the number one priority in finding a new job or career. Or better yet, let's redefine what "job security" is.
In my mind, job security means that we can take our skills and transfer them to another company when we need to. (When, not if). We can't control the decisions of a company, we can control the decisions we make. Those decisions include a commitment to develop our skills to be transferable and the knowledge to know where they transfer to.
There are job seekers that are pursuing career changes into the medical field, solely because, those are "in demand". Well, that and the fact that some of the colleges are promoting certificate programs that make it tempting. Most of these people were not cut out to be direct care providers (Phlebotomists, nurses, CNA's, Medical office workers). Or, they didn't do enough research to figure out what those jobs really entailed (odd shifts for entry level positions, working with sick people, understaffed/overworked environments, dealing with the public).
When choosing a new work environment, career, job, whatever, you need to start by assessing what it is you like doing best. "I like teaching people", "I like organizing work processes", "I like solving complex problems" could all translate into a variety of jobs and industries.
Instead of focusing on where the jobs are most abundant, focus on where your passion is most abundant.
Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success.
