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Here is your Good Day Columbia GDC Morning WACH for May 15 2012:

As part of our ongoing Back To Work series, Job Readiness expert Lori Cook from the Richland County Public Library joined us to talk about changing careers. 

Here are some interesting facts from US Bureau of Labor Statistics:

·                    The average American has 10-14 jobs by the time they turn 34

·                    85 percent of people over 45 consider changing jobs, only 6 percent do

·                    The average American stays at one job 4.1 years

In light of that, Lori had several tips on preparing yourself for the big change:

Examine your reasons: 

*     Do you hate your career or just your job? Think about a career change within the same company to be more productive and excited about your job

*     Are you just allured by the promise of higher salary?

*     Do you feel pressure from outside influences like a spouse or parent?

*     Want to be like someone else?

Rediscover your Passion: What do you love to do? When do you feel the most engaged, productive, and valued?

Assess your skills: Which of your current skills and experience can you transfer to your new career?

Explore Careers: Consider your options. Where do you want to go and what will it be like when you get there?

Consider Training and Education: Do you have what you need to get where you want to go?

Network: Information interviewing, job shadowing, volunteering, social networks, professional associations

Have a plan: The path to a new career may take months or years. What path will you take to get there?

The Job Center at the Richland County Public Library is free to the public, and offers job training, resume building, interview skills and more.  You can check out their website HERE.

You can see Lori’s time on the show HERE.

We welcomed back Lexington author David Lee Jones, who is celebrating the release of his latest novel, The Pyramorians. This sci-fi is book two of a trilogy.  You can order your copy HERE. You can see his time on the show HERE.

Ready for a bigger family?  Maybe you want to grow it just a little…like by 8 pounds…if so, meet Fausto, an 8-year-old Siamese available at the Pawmetto Lifeline.  You can see him up close and personal, HERE.

If a dog is more your speed, you are in luck.  On our Woof WACH, a little lady, named “Lady” was our focus.  Lady is a 2 year old beagle mix, and a sweet little dog.  Check her out HERE.

You can check out all the dogs and cats wanting to come home with you, HERE.

As always, GDC is looking for your input!  Please send story ideas, if you are in looking for exposure for a community event you are involved with, or would like a cast member to speak at your civic group, school, or activity, EMAIL us!  We are part of the community!!