More and more, people are not sticking to one company for their entire career. In fact, 58% of employed workers are currently trying to switch careers. There are many reasons for this, such as wanting to follow their passions, explore new industries, or find more fulfillment in their work. However, changing careers can be overwhelming, so it’s important to plan and consider all options carefully.
A FlexJobs survey found that the reasons for changing careers are wanting a remote job (50%), higher pay (48%), better work-life balance (46%), more meaning/fulfillment (40%), expanding skill set (30%), advancement opportunities (28%), approaching retirement (16%), pursuing a passion/hobby (16%), current job not a fit (13%), and turning a side hustle into a full-time job (12%).
Sometimes the career change may be triggered by unconscious blockers, such as difficulty in setting boundaries or lack of self-confidence, which can reappear everywhere you go. To avoid leaving for the wrong reasons, check the following tips:
1. Reflect on your goals and motivations
Before embarking on a career change, it is vital to engage in deep self-reflection and gain clarity on your motivations, strengths, and aspirations. Assess your skills, interests, and values to identify transferable skills that can be leveraged in your new career. Consider seeking a career coach to understand better what you want. Another essential thing to explore with a coach is the reason for the change: Is it really about the career aspirations, or are some of your behaviors not helping you get what you want? Is there something that you can change while in your current job before taking a different route? Is your career change possible within your current organization?
2. Gain insights
Once you have a clear sense of your desired career direction, dedicate time to thorough research and exploration. Gain insights into the industry, job market trends, required qualifications, and potential growth opportunities. Meet with professionals already working in your desired field to gather firsthand experiences and advice. This research will help you make informed decisions and set realistic expectations.
3. Consider upskilling
While some career changes may require additional formal education or certifications, others may only necessitate upskilling in specific areas. Identify the gaps between your current skill set and the requirements of your desired career. Sometimes upskilling requires certifications and hours of experience that may take time to achieve. Analyze if you can do them while still working on your current job or if you need a bigger time commitment. Attend workshops, enroll in online courses, or join professional associations to expand your network and stay updated with industry advancements.
4. Network and Build Relationships
Connect with professionals who can offer insights, mentorship, or potential job leads. Join relevant LinkedIn groups, and contact people you know that are already working in the same industry. Learning more about the specific job, the challenges and the benefits can help you demystify your expectations.
5. Identify Transferable Skills
Recognize and emphasize the transferable skills gained from your previous experience. Identify skills such as leadership, communication or data analysis that can be applied to your new field. Craft a compelling resume and cover letter that showcases your relevant achievements and demonstrates your ability to adapt and excel in a different industry.
6. Just Start
While a career change may seem daunting, if it is in your head, you need to do something about it to reduce the burden of overthinking. Start with simple actions like brainstorming your ideal job or contacting a coach or friend to share your ideas. Plan for actionable steps you can take immediately to see if you are in the right direction.
A career change can be a transformative and rewarding journey that allows you to align your work with your passions and aspirations. Still, starting without good planning can be stressful, not only for you but also for your family and others around you. Remember, a well-planned and executed career change can lead to greater fulfillment, professional growth, and long-term success. What is the worst that can happen if you try?
