Discover Career Opportunities

How Can You Switch from an Office Job to Manual Career?

manual labor

We may receive compensation when you click on links to products from our partners.

Working in an office isn’t for everyone. You might be able to tolerate it, but you’re thinking that you don’t want to be stuck at a desk for your whole working life. Office work can get you down and you might wonder whether there’s a better alternative that you’ll find more fulfilling. It’s not necessarily about chasing a passion or what job earns you more, but what you feel happier doing. It’s not uncommon to consider whether a manual job might be better for you than an office job. If it’s something you’re thinking about, there could be a few ways to make a change.

Decide What You Want to Do

Before you can go any further, you really need to think about what it is you want to do. You might already have something in mind. Maybe you have an existing skill or hobby that you enjoy. Or perhaps you’ve read about a career that’s attractive to you for some reason, whether it’s the work, the salary, or something else. Start off by researching job opportunities and career outlooks so you can determine which path is right for you. You should look at things like job security and how easy getting a job might be.

Find a Training Program

One option you have for switching to a manual career is to find a training program. This will allow you to learn key skills and possibly gain essential certifications. There are different ways you might learn the skills you need, but you’ll need at least some hands-on experience. Look for options like the HVAC technician program from PCI, which will teach you all you need to know for entry-level positions. Make sure you have a clear idea of what’s included in any course or training program you sign up for, and what it qualifies you to do.

Start an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships aren’t just for young people. Even if you’re not fresh out of school, you could benefit from doing an apprenticeship. When you become an apprentice, you get the chance to study and learn on the job at the same time. It’s an ideal way to learn a new profession because you’ll get in-person guidance and hands-on lessons. Apprentices typically earn less so many working adults will be wary of taking a pay cut, but you can soon start to earn a good amount in many jobs once your apprenticeship has finished.

It's not uncommon to consider whether a manual job might be better for you than an office job. If it's something you're thinking about, there could be a few ways to make a change.Click To Tweet

Launch Your Own Business

Being an employee isn’t the only way to start a new manual job. Another option is to start your own business. Obviously, this is best if you already have a wealth of skills and knowledge about whatever it is you want to do. For example, if you want to start a landscaping business, you should already have experience in landscaping, even if it’s as a hobby or a summer job. Some skills may also need certifying too. You might know some things about electrical systems but it doesn’t mean you can suddenly start up as an electrician.

You don’t have to be stuck in an office job if you don’t want to be. If you would prefer a manual job, your options are open.



What's next?

home popular resources subscribe search

You cannot copy content of this page