Go back to school to smooth career changes But experts suggest doing a little homework before signing up for classes

Extra education -- whether an advanced degree, a seminar or a series of classes leading to certification -- can pave your career transition path or help those returning to work after several years' absence, career counselors say. It also may be helpful for some lateral moves in competitive fields.
"It is sort of a strategic decision -- education," said Bill Stokes, an executive recruiter and chairman of the Washington Networking Group. "The smarter, long-term, strategic thinking person does it" and adds to their talents and their networks with every class or seminar.
If you're currently employed, find out what your employer thinks is important for your advancement. Or check your organization's Web site -- many government agencies and some other employers have fairly specific career development plans. Knowing what is on that ladder will make your class selection easier.
Before you sign up for a class, ask yourself some questions about your career and career goals, said Dennis Sullivan, a career counselor at Northern Virginia Community College. Among the questions he recommends: "Is it time for me to change careers or to shift? Is there another skill set or competency that would make me more employable with this company?"
A big question often hits people as they're facing a layoff: "Is it time to go back and complete the degree I didn't finish?" When their job is in jeopardy or disappearing, they suddenly realize they may not be qualified to get in the door for a similar position elsewhere, Sullivan said.
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Sullivan helps individuals plan their studies at Northern Virginia and update their skills. He and Stokes suggest three areas that are ripe for a career-enhancing class or two:
-- Computer and technical training, whether advanced or basic. "You can't have too many technical skills for today's workplace," said Sullivan.
-- Foreign language or ESL classes. Brush up on your second language or add a third. Sullivan suggests that professionals who grew up in another country ask the college to benchmark their English-speaking skills and then sign up for English as a Second Language classes to improve.
-- Professional certifications. A growing number of professions -- from project management to human resources -- offer advanced training and certifications that can help open doors.
Washington Post