Navigating a career change can be exciting and nerve-racking given the uncertainty, time commitment, potential skills gap, or loss of direction that may arise. These concerns all factor into the decision over a career change, but ultimately, they should not hold you back. There a plenty of small steps, such as research and self-reflection, that can be taken to make this shift more navigable, and we are eager to share those with you in this article.
Let’s dive in.
Be Clear on What You Want
When choosing an alternate career path, a great place to start is identifying why you are leaving your current career and what you hope to get out of your next one. It is imperative that you are clear about what you are seeking so that you can take effective and meaningful steps to bridge this gap. Alongside this reflection, you should identify what your hobbies and interests are to better align those passions with your profession. Then, research the daily activities of specific roles to obtain greater clarity on the job's requirements.
Research Different Companies
Working for a large corporation compared to a startup can bring very different working styles, just as an in-person location versus remote office setting would. You should weigh the pros and cons of each when you’re first researching companies. Take a look at their company values to determine whether they align with your priorities, and from there, you should explore the employee experience through online forums or even an informational interview with an employee.
Update Your Resume
Once you have an idea of what skills are needed in your next role, you can tailor your resume to highlight these and better position yourself as a qualified candidate. This will be a great help in allowing employers to see how your experience can transfer to the new role, even if job titles differ.
Expand Your Network
Networking can feel uncomfortable at first, but speaking with people who are already in the industry and have connections or advice is invaluable to gaining direction in deciding which career best suits your goals. New connections can be found through local meetups, online forums, industry events, industry experts' talks, and meetings with professionals in the type of role you seek.
Continue Your Education
Taking a class related to your desired career is an excellent way to show that you’re serious about a new role. This continued education is valuable to refer to in an interview and may set you apart as a candidate dedicated to your field.
Temporary Work
Another option to consider is temporary work. This can create a win-win scenario for both you and the employer, as you are able to work for a shorter period of time yet get immersed in the demands of the job. This hands-on experience allows you to investigate your interest in the profession and also may uncover any skills gaps that you need to fill in. Temporary work is common in the warehouse and manufacturing industries, in particular, as companies rely on this style of hiring to accommodate shifting workflows.
Consistent Steps
Changing careers is a journey and should be viewed as such. It is normal to feel lost, frustrated, or anxious when making an important career change. At the end of the day, what matters is that you are taking steps to achieve your goals. Accept the temporary discomfort; the progress will come in the long run.
Trust Your Instincts
You may feel pressure from your friends, family, or your self-imposed expectations on your career path. It helps to remember why you’re making this career change in the first place and stay true to this motivation; writing down your needs, wants, and non-negotiables can help you stay on track.
No Shortcuts
A successful career change requires effort and time. Set realistic expectations, and give yourself time and grace every step of the way. Apply yourself to this process and you will be sure to successfully find what you are searching for.
How We Can Help
At Liberty Staffing Services, we empower individuals seeking a career switch by offering personalized job search support and expert guidance. Our dedicated recruiting team connects you with opportunities that match your skills and passions, making your transition smooth and successful.
If you’re ready for a career change, we encourage you to contact us to learn more about how we can help.
