9 Tips For Making A Career Change

So, you’re thinking about switching up careers? You’re not alone. The world is changing, and staying in one career for a lifetime is no longer realistic. Many professionals reach a point in their career where their current jobs no longer fulfill them — whether that’s due to money, job satisfaction, or working environment — and are considering switching careers. You may be feeling nervous, excited, or overwhelmed, and that’s okay! Changing careers is a big step, no matter your age. But it can also mean earning more money, having more satisfaction in your job, and turning your life around for the better. So, why wait?! This guide will take you through 5 tips to consider when you’re looking to change your career. 

1. Understand your needs

If you’re unhappy in your current job, it’s essential to consider why you’re unhappy. Are you unfulfilled by your current role? Are you dissatisfied with your working environment, or uninspired by your industry? Writing up a list of what is not right about your current position, and then making a list of what you are looking for in a new role can be a great way to learn about what career you should move in to. Keep track of these and use them to plan out your goals — wall planners are great for this. 

2. Reach out to friends 

Now is not the time to be shy. Asking for advice from friends and family is a great way to get the inside track on different roles and opportunities that may be open to you. Consider drawing up a list of questions and then asking people out for a coffee. You can work through your list and get a real understanding of what may be out there for you. Knowledge is power, and researching will allow you to make a well-informed move. You never know, these contacts may be able to help you land your dream role in the future. It’s like that old saying goes if you don’t ask, you don’t get! 

3. Consider wellness

The industry is booming right now, and it stands to reason that an industry that is focused on health and well-being will be a worthwhile one to join. So, while you may want to change your career entirely, there may be an opportunity for you to use your transferable job to find a role in the industry. Positions in this range from wellness coaches, consultants, or even instructors. Dip your toe into the waters by exploring helpful apps and check out a few courses online. The wellness industry has a plethora of roles and opportunities, and it offers a chance to really help people with their lives.

4. Learning on the job

Apprenticeships are a great way to get paid while you learn. And they’re not just for younger people. Employers and apprenticeship providers are looking to take on a diverse range of people with varying skillsets, so they can have a passionate and robust workforce. An apprentice is a particularly good option if you don’t have the immediate skills for a specific role. Most industries offer apprenticeship schemes, from media to accountancy, engineering to retail. Employers such as ABC Heart of America provide paid, hands-on training and give you a competitive edge in the industry. 

5. Making a hobby a passion

It may be a push to say that when you love what you do, you never work a day in your life, but it sure does make the process go a lot quicker. Evaluate your passions. Do you love cooking? Have you always enjoyed yoga? Are you excited by mechanics? Chances are, taking a risk to move into a career focused on something you love will be a lot more fun than if you just went in search of money or status. 

6. Be your own boss 

It may be scary, but working for yourself is one of the most rewarding things you can do. That’s not to say you should jump straight into it. But, it can allow you to mold your career, and any achievements you make will be all your own. If you have the right skillset or a business that you’ve been yearning to start for years, it could be time to be brave and make the jump. 

7. Try it out 

Volunteering or freelancing can be a great way to try out a new role before you commit to moving, and can also help you divide whether or not you do want to change industries. It may mean reaching out to old contacts or calling someone out of the blue, but it can be invaluable. So, if you’re thinking of moving into copywriting, reach out to some online freelancing companies to see if you can write a piece. Or if you’d like to move into catering, see if a small business in the area needs a hand for a day. 

8. Upskill 

So, moving careers may seem daunting. But if you have the skills to be able to do the job properly, then there’s no reason not to apply! If you’re not sure your skills are quite up to scratch, then now’s the time to get learning. It may be that there are opportunities to upskill in your current role, so seek out any opportunities for training. Researching the skills required for fields that you’re interested in can be a great guide. 

9. Get applying 

If you’re set on moving careers, then the easiest way to achieve your goal is to get moving. You can’t improve your life or job prospects by staying in the same place. So, if you’ve narrowed down a field or job of interest, then you’ve got to put your money where your mouth is and get moving! 

Hopefully, this guide has provided you with helpful advice and tips to make a career change less daunting and more exciting. Good luck!