If you have been doing your current job for several years, you might be feeling that the daily tasks involved have become routine and you are coasting through your career. If there is little in the way of promotion opportunities, over time you may feel trapped in your job and begin to think about a career change. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Recent statistics have shown that around 70% of the total working population are actively looking for a job change. For many people, the potential to earn a greater income elsewhere or finding a job advertised that seems to offer interesting work and clear pathways to career progression are significant influencing factors in leaving their current occupation. This article outlines three interesting career choices that could prove to become highly worthwhile careers and each example is significantly different from the others to present a diverse range of career types.
IT Security Professional
The IT security industry has grown at an incredible rate in recent decades. This has been largely as a recognition of the damage that cyber-attacks, including malware, viruses, and ransomware, can do to both the IT assets and the reputation of an organization. The simple fact is that no organization, no matter how big or small, is exempt from the threat of a cyber-attack. Virus-infected computers and denials of service can bring a company to a standstill and, as such, must be protected against. Salaries for IT security professionals are extremely attractive with base remuneration averaging between $107,919 and $128,363. The role of an IT security professional can also be varied and interesting. Depending on the sector of work, typical activities can involve monitoring traffic on the company’s intranet and responding to flagged activity to determine if there are threats related to it. There may also be an educational aspect of the role that involves training other staff members to be increasingly knowledgeable and vigilant regarding suspected cyber-attacks. It is well worth gaining a security certification to enter this field of work and most people within this general occupation find that there are numerous routes to progression and specialization.
Firefighter
If you have a high level of physical fitness and enjoy a job that gets the adrenaline flowing, then the role of a firefighter may be worth considering. Modern firefighters in some countries will respond to road traffic accidents as well as fight fires and may be trained in CPR and basic life support. The role of a firefighter is one in that no two days are quite the same and is one of the few roles that can often result in being in the position to save the life of a member of the public.
Physical Therapist
If you like to work directly with a wide range of the public and find that you get deep satisfaction from helping people, then the job of a physical therapist may be ideal. Physical therapists are required to hold a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy and may even need a post-graduate doctoral certificate in this field to become fully licensed. The job of a physical therapist can be extremely rewarding as you are playing an active role in rehabilitating patients after serious accidents or injuries and being able to see them regain movement and return to full fitness. Career paths are also varied and with the relevant doctoral qualifications, you could even start your own physical therapy business.
