No one likes a quitter! At least that USED to be the case.
The Great Resignation is sweeping the nation, and all kinds of folks are thinking twice about how they want to make a living. In fact, almost half of all workers now consider themselves “job seekers.” They might say they like their current job but they’re acting like they are free, single, and ready to mingle…(with a new job.)
But you may be surprised by this: you know who’s most interested in making a switch? Disgruntled paper pushers. Desk jockeys. Seat warmers. That’s right - the people who are most looking for an out are the white collar workers who likely went to college and all that to get this job. And they’re thinking the grass is looking greener on the blue collar side.
If that’s you, the good news is this: There's never been a better time to jump into a skilled trade. In fact, in the construction industry, there are an estimated 650,000 jobs open in 2022.
Before you tear off your button down and khakis, you should brush up on what this kind of career change takes.
Here's what you need to know before you make the switch from a white collar job to a blue collar job.
Just like you would with any other career change, take some time to really think about what you want. Sit under your favorite old tree in criss-cross-applesauce, close your eyes, and get to dreaming. The world is your oyster when it comes to hands-on work, so dream big!
If you love the open road, perhaps a truck driving career is showing up in your crystal ball. Or maybe you'd rather repair the trucks instead behind the scenes as a mechanic. Either way, getting clear on your future career goals will make your new job search that much easier. Bonus points if you can dream up a blue collar career that lets you use some of your white collar experience.
We know you probably aren't jazzed about becoming the next Billy Madison, but the reality is, most skilled trades require...(wait for it)...SKILLS.
Do some research on your blue collar dream career and find out what certifications and training you'll need. Depending on your state and industry, you might even need to take (and pass) an exam. Get familiar with your local area's trade schools and gather info on tuition and fees to start working it into your budget. And don't worry, we won't tell your cubicle master that you secretly go to trade school at night!
Let's face it. The chances of your white collar LinkedIn contacts being the ticket to finding a blue collar job are slimmer than Shady himself. Fix this by getting to know people in the industry you'd like to switch to. See if you can schedule a time to buy someone a beer, or ask to help out someone on their farm, workshop, job site, garage (you get the idea.) . Pick their brains on how they got into their jobs and get advice on how to break into your new career.
Check the calendar for trade shows and career fairs specific to the skilled labor you're most interested in. Sometimes, local companies even sponsor career fairs, which means you might be able to become besties with your new boss and get a foot in the door. Bonus points if you're able to find a company with an apprentice program for newbies.
Once you're all skilled up and made new connections, it's time to put the pedal to the metal. A blue collar job search can feel the same as white collar one, but there's also a lot of differences. Make sure you revamp your resume and showcase any new certificates or skills you picked up in trade school.
There are a ton of great blue collar jobs on popular job boards like Indeed and Monster, but you should also check industry-specific job boards. Tap into your new network and let them know you're finally ready to take the plunge...or pick up the plunger! You never know who knows who, and inside connections are the best way to land a new gig.
Another thing to keep in mind with any career change is the potential difference in pay. Blue collar workers are typically paid an hourly rate, while white collar workers are usually paid a regular salary. Be prepared to *maybe* take a temporary pay cut, especially if you're taking an entry level job. If you're curious about how much a job pays, sites like Glassdoor have plenty of free salary info.
However, over time, a blue collar career might have you making more than you did as a cube-dweller. Hourly workers are also eligible for overtime pay, and skilled labor is in high-demand. Who knows? Your new gig could come with a sweet sign-on bonus or the potential to branch out, become self-employed, and start your own business!
Guess what? The President can only impact jobs so much...but your local & state government reps have a much bigger say in your area! Here’s three small things you can do that make a BIG impact:
