If you’re considering your next career move, it’s natural to want to stick with what you know. After all, you chose your current field for a reason—it aligned with your skills, interests, or long-term goals. But what happens when job security in your industry starts to waver? If layoffs, hiring freezes, or shifting market demands have you questioning your next step, it’s time to assess your options.

Staying In Your Field: Ask Yourself These Questions

Before committing to another job search in your current industry, take a step back and evaluate:

• Is there a demand for my role? Check job boards, industry reports, and staffing agencies—are companies actively hiring for your position?
• Is my field seasonal? If so, are there periods of high competition that make job searching more difficult?
• Will hiring pick up soon? Are there industry trends indicating a rebound, or is demand declining long-term?
• Would I relocate? If opportunities are stronger in another city or state, am I open to moving?
• Am I willing to take a pay cut? Would lower pay or reduced benefits be worth staying in my field?
• Would additional training help? If upskilling or earning a certification could boost my employability, am I willing to invest the time and resources?

If you’re struggling to find positive answers to these questions, it might be time to explore a new career path.

Considering A Career Change

Changing careers isn’t just for those facing layoffs—sometimes, a shift is about personal fulfillment. Maybe your priorities have changed, or you want a role that better aligns with your lifestyle. You might even want to switch from working heavily with data to a more people-focused role—or vice versa.

One of the biggest motivators for a career shift is simple: “I’ve always wanted to do this.” If that thought keeps crossing your mind, it’s worth exploring.

What Kind Of Work Suits You Best?

Every job involves some combination of working with data, people, or things—but the balance varies. Understanding your natural preferences can help guide your transition:

• Data-focused roles require analytical thinking, problem-solving, and attention to detail.
• People-oriented roles emphasize communication, collaboration, and customer interaction.
• Hands-on roles involve building, fixing, or operating tools and machinery.

Even jobs with the same title can differ significantly. One insurance clerk may spend most of their day processing paperwork and data, while another primarily interacts with customers about claims. Recognizing what you enjoy most can help you make the right move.

The Bottom Line

Whether you choose to stay in your field or embark on something new, the key is preparation. Take time to research, reflect on your strengths, and weigh the risks and rewards of each path. The job market is always evolving, and with the right approach, so can your career. Explore our open jobs today!