If you are navigating a career change for the first time, you may feel a great deal of uncertainty about what the future holds. You may feel as though it’s too late to make a change. At the same time, you may feel like if you don’t do something, you’re doomed to stay in a career where you’re just unhappy. However, if you’re ready for some help, take a look at these tips.
Accept that There are No Shortcuts
The first thing you need to do is accept that there aren’t any shortcuts. They simply don’t exist. Every time you might have tried to take your career in a new direction, you find there’s something stopping you. This can be understandably frustrating, so prepare yourself for a marathon rather than a sprint. Even though shortcuts are handy, there aren’t usually any good ones when you are trying to create meaningful change.
What Skills Do You Already Have
Let’s say you work as a data analyst and hope to become a journalist one day. Take time to think about ways you have used your writing skills in your current job. Did you write articles for the company newsletter? Or maybe you wrote articles for an association you belong to? If you haven’t, you could consider doing so and include that in your resume.
Another example is looking for jobs for retired teachers. Did you lead professional development programs or facilitate workshops for your company? You probably have a lot of experience you are overlooking. Keep that in mind and highlight the ones that relate to the career you are transitioning to.
Update your Skills For a Career Change
Once you know what skills you already have, you may find there are still a few gaps. You might not have the skills you need to get the job you want right away. Depending on the industry you want to work in, you may need to go back to school to obtain a degree. But keep in mind a degree may not be necessary. You can find various certificate programs or online courses that can fill the gaps you have in your resume. Online courses are now more accepted than ever by employers. Not only can they fill in the gaps, but they can also help you refresh your skills so you’ll be ready when they call you for an interview.
Think about a Lateral Move
Your new opportunity may be right in front of you, working at the company you already work for. There are so many reasons why companies like to hire people internally when there is a vacant position. One reason is that a current employee already knows and understands the company culture. They also save time and money by not having to do any additional background or reference checks.
If you want to get hired for a new job internally then make sure you keep an eye out on your company job board. When you see jobs like the one you are interested in, take note of the qualifications of the job and what the responsibilities are. Research any new positions that could pop up within the area you would like to work in. Use this information to identify any of the gaps mentioned above and to update your resume. Also, let managers know you are interested in positions like this so they can keep you in mind. Being a current employee, leadership may select you for the position and offer training and mentorship as you learn the remaining skills you need.
Test the Waters Before a Career Change
One brilliant way for you to fast-track your learning would be for you to work on side projects. Let’s say you are trying to break into front-end website development; when you have learned the skills you need, you can find a side project that helps you to show off everything you might have learned. You can also ask to be assigned to a detail for a few months to see if this is truly the move you want to make. A detail involves serving in the role for a temporary time by being immersed in the role. You will be allowed to shadow someone, learning the role without making a final commitment. When you have made your way through this and gained experience, you’ll be ready for a career change. If you find you don’t like the duties, when the detail ends, you can go back to the duties you were doing and won’t be out of a job.
Build out your Portfolio
Did you know that over 72% of recruiters use LinkedIn to find new candidates? If you want to stand out, make sure you revamp your profile. Edit your title to convey your interest in the industry you want to be hired in. You may want to be as specific as possible so potential employers will know you are looking. If you can do this, then you will stand out amongst the crowd, and this can work in your favor more than you realize. Of course, it’s wise to add any skills you may have, too. This will make it easier for hiring managers to find you on the platform.
Navigating a career change can be overwhelming, but do not give up because it seems hard. Be patient and keep in mind these tips, as they could make all the difference when you seek out a new position. If you’re ready to make a career change and would like some assistance, consider working with a career coach such as myself. Here’s to YOUR success!
Carolyn R. Owens has over 25 years of proven experience and serves as a Career Strategist, Leadership, and Mentor Coach. She is the Chairwoman and CEO of Infinity Coaching, Inc., where they help you up-level your skills so you can up-level your income. Infinity Coaching, Inc. provides one-on-one and group coaching, organizational training, and personality assessments. Carolyn is certified to give the Energy Leadership Index and Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) assessments. You can learn more about assessments and other products and services at https://infinitycoaching.net.
