Many job candidates who have experienced long-term unemployment in this economy are reconsidering the career path they’ve chosen.  Many are looking for a career makeover while others are thinking about revisiting old passions and dreams that they abandoned.  But before a job candidate veers off onto another career path there are few questions they should consider:

1.     What do you value the most?  Are you a goal oriented person?  Do you want to spend more time with your family, community and hobbies?  Job candidates who value more time with their family may decide to go into a career that doesn’t demand as much time or that is flexible and can allow them to work from home.  For those job candidates who are goal oriented or interested in achieving more in their career, they may prefer a company that rewards long hours with promotions and more responsibilities.

2.     What motivates you to get out of the bed every day?  Remember, a job is where you will spend a significant amount of your time, what about that job will make it a pleasurable experience?  For some it may be high pay and/or status, while for others it may be the knowledge that their work is for a greater good?  Every job candidates must be honest about what truly motivates them when considering a career makeover.

3.     Do you enjoy working in organizations that are new or do you prefer working with established firms?  Many job candidates find that the hustle and bustle of a new organization is exciting while others find it draining.  Knowing this before you change directions will help you make the right choice as you change directions in your career.