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Leaving Current Job
I don't like transitions, but I need to leave my current job. I'v been there almost 15 years, part-time, but I'm tired of it, and I haven't been getting a consistent number of hours for a while in order to have a consistent income. I didn't go to college. I've studied child care since then in different ways( I graduated high school in 1998; oh no, that hints at my age :) ) but that didn't work out either. Now I'm interested in Proofreading or Bookkeeping (notice how both require attention to detail) but don't have much training and don't want to pay to get any more training or take the time for it. I want to learn on the job. I want some hands-on experience with Proofreading so I can prove myself. Oh, one more thing: the office environment doesn't appeal to me, at least the dressing up every day part. I don't know what else to say. Does anyone understand where I'm coming from?
Hi TheresaH,
There are entry-level bookkeeping jobs that require no more than a high school education and a willingness to learn. I imagine you would also need to be able to demonstrate or convince an employer that you have qualities that would make you a good fit, such as attention to detail, as you noted in your post. If you haven’t done so yet, do a quick search on the major job boards to get a sense of the requirements.
Some entry-level proofreading positions require a degree in English (or a related major) and/or some experience; others don’t. Proofreading is also great for work-from-home/remote options, if that’s of interest (for example, my proofreader for my resume writing business is on the West coast; I am on the East coast).
You could also explore freelancing options for right now. This article has some great info. https://realwaystoearnmoneyonline.com/entry-level-proofreading-jobs-online/ In particular, look at https://www.proofreadingservices.com/pages/careers (mentioned in the article)- their info says you can apply to be one of their online proofreaders by taking a 20-minute test.
I assume you have been a restaurant crew member for the past 15 years. You also mention that you have some training in childcare. If you decide to apply for jobs, do ensure that your resume is targeted to the position you are seeking. For example, if you are applying for a bookkeeper or proofreader position, experience in childcare is probably not relevant, so you would not include it.
Instead, you would include and highlight only the experience, skills, abilities that are relevant to your target position. Also, generally, we (resume writers and career coaches) recommend not going any further back than 10-15 years on your resume. Note, however, that what is ultimately included in your resume and how the information is placed, will depend on overall strategy (for example, is there an employment gap you need to fill?, etc.).
The best of luck to you!