Q I am 29 years old, and I am considering switching careers. I have been in the supply chain and shipping industry for 41/2 years.

I am now thinking of going into the tourism and hospitality sector, as I enjoy jobs that involve customer service and people relationships.

I plan to take up a higher diploma in tourism so I can acquire more knowledge about this industry. However, I am totally new to it, and I am worried that I will lose out because of my late entry.

A It is not uncommon to hear of people wanting to make major career moves to totally different jobs or industries, particularly if their interests lie in a different field or industry from what they are currently doing.

My advice to those thinking of switching careers has always been to evaluate their reasons for wanting a career change and the career prospects in the industry they are planning to move into, as well as the courses they may need to take up if their current qualifications and skill sets are not relevant to the new job.

You must be sure that you can establish a long-term career with this change, as you would not want to be in the same situation five years later, looking for another career and having to start the process all over again.

In your case, it appears that you have decided to pursue a career in the tourism and hospitality industry, and have already taken the first step by planning to enrol in a higher diploma course in this area. You should also talk to people from the industry to get insights into the business and find out about career opportunities there.

You may then determine the type of roles you can take on which are in line with your interest in customer service or people relationships.

Regarding your concern about losing out because of your late entry, I assume you are referring to career advancement opportunities and financial compensation.

As with any career switch, you are likely to be expected to start at an entry-level position and take a pay cut.

However, this may be only a temporary setback. If you excel in your work, you are likely to be promoted, and given bigger roles and responsibilities, and your salary would be adjusted accordingly.

With the tourism and hospitality industry in Singapore expecting a shortage of manpower when the two integrated resorts and new hotels open in the next three to five years, it is actually a good time for you to plan your career move into this area.

In addition, the rapid growth in tourism in China, India and South-east Asia will offer regional or overseas career opportunities if you are willing to travel or relocate.

Evelyn Teo
Managing director
HeadStart

Advice provided in this column is not meant as a substitute for comprehensive professional advice. E-mail questions to lorna@sph.com.sg

This article was first published in The Straits Times on May 18, 2008.