Changing careers is not an easy task, especially when you have to start from scratch. You wonder, ‘where will I start from? What will I do? I have to learn new skills and so on. But it doesn’t have to be so complicated if you know what you want. There are common reasons why you might decide to change careers which include:
- You are bored or frustrated with your existing job
- You want more opportunities for advancement
- You want better pay and benefits
- You want a flexible work schedule
- You want to work remotely
Tips to note before you transition to a new career.
Identify your transferable skills: Here, you can identify the skills you already have that relate to your new career choice. Transferrable skills refer to those skills that are universal and needed in all career requirements. They include good communication, teamwork, multitasking, etc.
Determine the industry skills you need: Research the skills you need. For example, as a graphic designer, you need to learn how to design. For a developer, you would need to learn how to code. For a content writer, you would need to develop your writing skills. Know the skillset associated with your career and build on it
Learn the Industry: Every industry has its specific jargon or terms with which they are associated with. Get familiar with your industry, and get associated with and identify stakeholders in the industry. Get acquainted with the process of the career and what drives success. For example, aspiring UX designers will have to familiarize themselves with UX design principles and processes. See if it is really what you want.
Consider life changes: Remember that transitioning to a new career might come with challenges. You might need to move to a new location, might not have time for your hobbies, etc.
Tips to note while transitioning.
Leave your current job: Leaving your job helps you focus on your process and build on yourself. However, this might not be compulsory if you can juggle the two. Just make sure to leave on a good note and give at least one month’s notice.
Get more education: Knowledge is never a waste. Continue to develop skills, read books and helpful articles, practice, and more practice. A wise man once said, “Practice makes for improvement.”
Update your resume: Always make sure to update your resume to match the job requirements. If you’ve already taken a course on your desired career, update it. Update each of your achievements that are relevant to your career.
Apply for entry-level positions: you might have to start from a lower level or mid-level, given that you’re transitioning. The most important thing is to gain experience as you climb the ladder of your newfound career.
Prepare adequately for interviews: interviews are an integral part of job hunting. Make sure to prepare very well so that you can efficiently explain why you’re changing careers and why you’re the best person for the job. Explain how your previous experience has prepared you for this new job and what you bring to the role.
Take-home points.
Before you transition to a new career:
- Identify your transferrable skills
- Determine the skill you need
- Learn the industry
- Consider life changes
After you’ve decided to transition:
- Leave your current job
- Get more education
- Update your resume
- Apply for entry-level jobs
- Prepare adequately for interviews
It might not be easy, but consistency and determination are key.
