Career changers are quite common, especially in today's economy because individuals are forced to look at other industries that are hiring. For example, the telecommunications industry is experiencing large cutbacks while healthcare is booming, so candidates are forced to re-think their near-term career paths in order to find suitable work. While the transition can be scary, it can also be exciting if you prepare properly.

The first step is to perform a self-analysis - what industry or industries do you want to work in? Drill down and think about the type of positions that would interest you. Be honest with yourself. Evaluate your strengths, what are your weaknesses, and how you can best reposition yourself for a career change.

The next step is to research your selected industries to ensure you learn as much about them as possible, including the terminology and the sector trends. Talk to any contacts you might have who are working in that industry. Recognize that you'll be at an initial disadvantage from others that are currently in the industry and you'll want to best cover those disadvantages through your research.

Once you have secured your first interview, it's critical that you are well-prepared. Thoroughly research the company, the industry, the position, and then create industry-specific questions to ask the interviewer to demonstrate your understanding of the sector. Before your interview determine how your previous experience and skills would successfully translate to or could be applied to that particular position (i.e. if you're going for a technical sales position, articulate how your background in mechanical engineering will help you be a natural in understanding the technology associated with enterprise sales because those products often require individuals who are analytical).

Once you've completed your preparation, the next step is to present well. The key to presenting well is being prepared and the ability to anticipate the questions you may be asked. Also, while in the interview process it's critical that you are proactive throughout the process. Recognize that you're not only being interviewed for the position, but you want to use this opportunity to interview the interviewer/company to ensure it's a good fit for you, it's an industry that you would enjoy working in, and it's an environment where you would thrive and grow.

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