Thinking about switching jobs? You’re not alone

According to a survey the Washington Post conducted earlier this summer, about 1 in 5 workers in the U.S. considered changing their profession during the COVID-19 pandemic. The number was higher for people under 40 — one-third of them have thought about changing their career since the pandemic began. 

The pandemic has shifted our priorities and made us reassess what we truly want. For some people, that has meant pursuing more meaningful work. For others, it’s meant looking for a job with higher pay or more flexibility. And for those in service and retail work, it could mean looking for a job that offers stability during the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

MPR News host Angela Davis explored the reasons behind this trend and what it’s like to start a new career during these unprecedented times. 

Guests:

• Kate Schaefers is the Executive Director of the University of Minnesota Advanced Careers Initiative Life Course Center. She coaches professionals who are transitioning into new jobs and careers. 

• Wendy Williams is the former second flute with the Minnesota Orchestra. She is currently on medical leave and moving into a new career as a wellness coach and grief and loss specialist.

• Kat Coats is a former bartender. She is now a welding student at Minneapolis Community Technical College.   

• Meg Steuer is finishing her last week as the director of platform for Forge North. She’ll be taking off a few months to travel.

• Joe Horton is a Minneapolis artist and musician. He is the co-founder of the creative studio FIX.

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