Career Transition Services Interview Preparation Guide

A career is an individual's journey through learning, work and other aspects of life. There are a number of ways to define a career and the term is used in a variety of ways.

Basically career transition is the process of finding and moving into a new career. There is no set period of time for career transition and no limit to the number of times you might decide to change.

The career transition period may start years before you consciously decide to make any change. It can include daydreaming about something you would love to do, meeting people in careers that spark an interest, reading books or seeing films about things you enjoy, etc. as well as actually trying things on for size. And it may continue all the way up to and even after starting your new career, when insecurities and self-doubts can still creep in.

Career coaching services are about helping a candidate find the best path for his long term employment needs. As part of any career transition program, it is important to find career coaches, who understand the psychology and the physical need behind job outplacement.

The average career search, including all levels, now takes six to 12 months, according to department of labor statistics. For senior executives, the averages can be much longer. The length of a job search is directly related to the amount of time dedicated to the search and how well-organized and focused the process is. You should treat your career search as a career.

If you call early in the morning, around lunchtime and at the end of the day, you are more likely to catch your contact at his or her desk and avoid the "gate keeping" assistant. If you do not have the direct number, try using the company's automated phone directory. Call a digit up or down and after apologizing, ask to be transferred to the person's direct line. Make friends with the assistant and try to get him or her to arrange a good time for you to call.

Looking for a job in another region or country is challenging. When targeting a geographical area, it helps to leverage any connections and contacts living there to help you with networking and local information. Research the cost of living comparisons, housing market, schools and general job market. Check out regional job boards and local recruiters and identify the fastest growing companies in the area that are related to your industry background. Consolidate trips by scheduling as many interviews and networking meetings as possible.

Most people start with the Internet when they are looking to make a career move. There are thousands of job posting sites and millions of jobs online. With the rise of automation in the search process, you would imagine this is where most of the jobs must be found. However, studies and surveys indicate that 60 percent to 80 percent or more of all jobs are still filled through word of mouth and networking. It is still who you know that counts. The higher level the position, the more the networking pays off. Use the Internet to find and refine your targets, and to research companies, industries and executives. The world of information is invaluable when doing your due diligence.

An executive resume needs an executive summary, core competencies and quantifiable accomplishments. Quantified means that it details how you made your company money, saved money, increased efficiency, reduced costs, etc. Use numbers and percentages. Your resume will have about 15 to 30 seconds to catch the attention of a prospective employer.

Identify the top three to five people who know you well and can speak knowledgeably about your professional and personal attributes. References who hold senior positions often carry more credibility. Make sure they are positive about you and can be articulate and effective salespeople for you. Send a letter or e-mail thanking them when they agree to serve as a reference. Include a copy of your resume, give them a description of the position you are being considered for, and tell them the reasons you are leaving your current job. Call them and let them know that they may be getting a reference call, and ask them to let you know when they are contacted.