Over the years weve learned that its not unusual for Americans to change jobs and even careers several times in the course of a working lifetime.

Its one of the dramatic changes thats occurred in the 21st Century job marketplace. And you need to be prepared for it.

One way, of course, is to have a failsafe career that guarantees youre ready in advance for any job or career change that may come your way . . . whether voluntary or involuntary.

Another aspect of job change you should be aware of is to protect your assets when you make your move. Be sure you take your TAX-SHELTERED 401(k) ASSETS with you.

* DO NOT make the fatal mistake of cashing out your account when you switch jobs.

* DO NOT have your organization write you a check that you can immediately turn into cash.

Consider the income taxes and fees youll pay on the withdrawal. For example, buying a car for $20,000 would require you to remove up to $30,000 from your account. Thats $30,000 that wont be accruing interest toward your retirement.

One report states that 50% of job-changers, ages 20 to 29, cashed out instead of rolling over their money to a new account. Workers were more likely to cash out even if the had $500 or less in their 401(k).

Bad idea . . . youre losing money.

Take the opportunity to roll your money into an account with your new employer. Dont leave it with your old employer. Also, consider rolling your 401(k) into an IRA. These accounts have more investment options than an employers 401(k) program.

Whatever your decision regarding your 401(k) options, remember you have other assets to consider. These are your personal job and career assets you carry with you at all times. They are as valuable as your financial assets. In fact, theyre what make your financial assets possible.

Check out our website to discover how to make your personal career assets work for you. Develop them properly and theyll guarantee your financial assets and your success in the job marketplace!