Switching careers? A 4-step plan to ensure success

Kyle Kosey needed a sign. He wanted to ditch his 20-year career as an engineer to become a financial planner. It was a daydream he replayed in his mind for years.

His cue to make a move finally came this winter when his employer at the time, Caterpillar Inc., announced it was offering voluntary buyouts to 25,000 workers.

Whatever the case, landing on your feet in a new career takes methodical discipline, particularly with so many people jockeying for positions. So before you take the plunge, map out a game plan:

STEP 1 - TAKE STOCK OF YOUR SITUATION

STEP 2 - REVAMP YOUR RESUME

STEP 3 - BEGIN THE HUNT

STEP 4 - CLOSE THE DEAL