If you’re looking to change your career, there are a few crucial tips to keep in mind. Switching to a role that you’ll enjoy can have a substantial positive impact on your life, but you shouldn’t take it lightly. In this article, we’ll cover a few tips to help you prepare for the big leap and land the job that you want:
Switching Gears
The reality is, many of us decided on our career in college, and since then have developed new interests, skill sets, and unique experiences. It’s no longer the norm for people to stay with the same company from graduation to retirement. It’s 2020, and today, most people switch jobs more than ten times throughout their careers.
There’s nothing positive about staying in a job that you hate. When you’re unhappy at work, those negative feelings can infiltrate many other aspects of your personal life and wellbeing. Studies have found that career dissatisfaction can lead to weight gain, risk of illness, depression, anxiety, and sleep loss.
Make sure that before you leave your current job, you know that you’ll be happy in your “dream” career. Many people make the mistake of switching before knowing what they’re getting themselves into. Research the new path before thrusting yourself into a completely unfamiliar role.
When you find your desired role, visit a website for more details and look through current job ads within your ideal field. What does the day-to-day look like? Do you get excited when you read the description? Also, consider the long-term view of the industry. Is there room for promotion and progression?
After you conduct thorough research and your dream career is still looking perfect to you, soldier on and keep preparing!
Master the Skills
If you’re changing careers, the chances are you’re going to have to master some new skills. It’s essential that you know what the learning curve will be before you quit your current job.
In some cases, depending on how drastic the career change, you’ll have to study for the appropriate qualifications. This extra work could take a lot of energy, time, and money. If you need to take a course while you’re still working, try out some introductory courses before you invest in a semester-long class or degree program.
You may be able to learn other skills at your current job. Think about the similarities and how you can use your current experience and skill set. Your work history is valuable, and it makes you unique. Once you’ve prepared in terms of skills and qualifications, it’ll be easier to leap your new career.
Set Manageable Goals & Deadlines
It’s easy to get lost in the excitement and overwhelming nature of a career change. While you may be extremely attracted to the idea of leaving your job behind, it’s easy to lose motivation.
Setting manageable goals and deadlines is a way for you to hold yourself accountable at all times. Nothing’s going to happen overnight. It’s best to break down tasks and set aside hours every day for learning new skills and researching the new role.
Connecting the Dots
Not all career changes are random. Start connecting the dots regarding why you’re moving from one industry to another. Employers appreciate unique experiences. Put together a flowing narrative for interviews. Tell a story that shows how your skills and values will translate from your previous job to your new one.
A career change can be tough, so make sure you’re ready to take on the challenge. Prepare yourself for uncertainty and confront doubts head-on. It’s never too late to transition into your dream career; it just takes some commitment, discipline, preparation, and courage.
