We all like to make resolutions at the start of a new year. Some people pledge to change their lifestyle, others want to change their diet, and some d...
We all like to make resolutions at the start of a new year. Some people pledge to change their lifestyle,
others want to change their diet, and some decide that the new year is the time to make a change to their entire career.
In recent years, locksmithing has become an increasingly popular option for people looking to re-train in a new field. This article looks at why so many tradespeople and other professionals choose to become locksmiths, and how they go about making the switch over to this industry.
Most people who choose to re-train as locksmiths are attracted by a combination of the challenging, problem solving work, independence and the opportunity of flexible working hours. Those coming over from other trades like builders and plumbers already have experience of working with tools and solving problems, so they often see locksmithing as a natural step on from their own professions.
One reason for the increased popularity of locksmith careers in recent years is that locksmiths are still widely in demand, while several other trades have been hit very hard by the recession. People may be tightening their belts and showing reluctance to pay for new building work, but through necessity they will still shell out if they are locked out of their home and need a mobile locksmith.
So how do those who aspire to a career change start themselves on the path to becoming professional locksmiths?
Step one is signing up to a locksmith training course. There are plenty of courses available in the UK, varying widely in terms of price and quality. An average introductory course will be around 4 days long, and should cover everything you need to know to start working as a locksmith – including cylinder locks, mortice locks, key cutting and vehicle entry.
The initial training stage is vital, because it is probably the first opportunity to see if you actually enjoy doing locksmith work, and it’s no good getting into a career that you don’t enjoy any more than your previous one.
Once their training course is completed, a new locksmith is ready to begin work. They will still have a lot to learn about the profession, but this comes only with practice and hands-on experience. As for finding work, they can either start out working on a self-employed basis, or seek employment with a medium or large locksmith firm. Both options have their merits, but being part of a decent sized company ensures you get a regular income and a little more support when you’re out in the field.
It’s no easy ride, but for individuals who are smart, hard-working and determined, there are some fantastic careers to be had in the locksmithing industry. The best locksmiths are the ones who never use their enthusiasm for a challenge, and are always gratified to know they have helped customers in their time of need.
With a new year just beginning, it might just be the perfect time for you to leave behind your unsatisfying career and start afresh as a locksmith, in one of the most challenging and rewarding industries out there.
