NewHavenBIZ

12 n e w h a v e n B I Z | S e p t e m b e r / O c t o b e r 2 0 2 0 | n e w h a v e n b i z . c o m Interested in a new career path? Learn from those who made a change C A R E E R 1 8 0 H ave you been in the same pro- fession since college, and you don't look forward to going to work anymore? Maybe you have been thinking about a career switch, but you don't know where to start. You aren't alone. Daryl Capuano, CEO of Career Counseling Connecticut in Old Saybrook, started out as an attor- ney, but wasn't happy. at desire for change led him to start his own career-development business, where a substantial por- Michelle Tuccitto Sullo tion of his job is helping people in midlife launch new careers. "ere are people in their 30s, 40s and 50s figuring out what they want to do when they grow up," Capuano says. "ey don't want to wake up and hate going to work." Career changers are oen look- ing to make a difference, and for meaning, purpose and happiness, according to Capuano. Others lost their jobs or sense layoffs may be looming. Making more money is typically fourth or fih on the list of reasons for making a change, Capuano notes. "It's about doing something that sings to your soul more," Capuano says. While most of his clients, about 80 percent, want to work in the same industry, a smaller group wants a total reinvention — such as going from physician to open- ing a bed-and-breakfast. To make a change, find out what education and training you need, and how long it will take, Capuano advises. Switching careers typically takes six months to a year. Ask yourself: Might you be happier in a different role in your current industry or organization? How might your skills be useful in a different field? What are inter- ests your existing career hasn't engaged? Paul Mayer, president of the Schegg Group in Shelton, helps people looking to make a career change through coaching and as- sisting with résumés, interviewing skills, LinkedIn profiles and more. To do some- thing com- pletely new, online training and certifica- tion might be in order, Mayer said. "It is a great time to do a self-as- sessment: What do I have to offer a company?" Mayer says. Mayer recommends checking out job boards and letting people know confidentially you are interested in moving on. Lay out a plan to make your career change Paul Mayer Discovering farming is in his genes: Tom Harbinson of Jones Family Farms.

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