The thought of changing careers surfaces almost on everyone’s minds. But, for most of us, it is quite a daunting task. Quite irrefutably, changing careers demand a vivid focus and commitment on your part. In addition, it also requires you to plan and prepare for short-term and long-term goals. Once you are clear with your objectives, it will be a hell lot easier for you to take the plunge in the new waters!
For some of us, diving into the pool of a whole new career can be incredibly overwhelming. To help, we have written this article wherein we discuss a step-by-step process to make your transition to the new career smoother and easier.
1. Start With Good Research
Doing research for your new career is profoundly significant in order to gain valuable perceptions of the new career. Start your research by speaking to people in the industry, know the usual working conditions, find out more about the opportunities and challenges that come along with the new industry. Besides, as a vital part of your research, you should also find more about the certifications and skills required to actively get involved in the new sphere.
2. Have A Solid Plan
Once you are done with your primary research, it’s time now to focus on creating short term and long term plans. Having a good transition plan plays a vital role in providing you with a blueprint for an effective change. Have an end career goal and accordingly map out the steps to achieve that end goal. Also, make sure you keep feasible time frames for achieving the goal, and accept that these goals may need to frequently adjusted keeping in mind the unforeseen changes.
A good plan will ensure that you stay on track and never lose the insight of your journey.
3. Acquire Skills, If Needed
In your research you may establish a couple of skills that you may require to prepare yourself for a new career. If you fancy making an unprecedented transition from your old career to the new one, then you will inevitably have to gain new skills and qualifications required for the new career. After identifying the skills that you need, ensure that you start the process of investigating for options of courses, both online and offline. There are many successful transitions that take place when people are working full-time but studying part-time.
All you need is well-researched and well-planned planning, a strong commitment to reach your end career goal and a lot of supper from your family.
4. Expand Your Current Network
It is a good idea to grow your current network by joining a relevant professional group or association. Find out if there are any networking opportunities available to develop meaningful connections with like minded people and groups. Building connections is a great way to learn more about your new career and its people.
Having a good network will play a significant role in gaining newer insights into the new career.
5. Get Some Work Experience
Another great thing that you must do before taking the leap is, get some work experience in your chosen new career. For instance, if you are still studying, look for a work experience component in your course. A part-time work experience also helps in impressing the employers. Ensure that you mention all your duties, responsibilities and projects that you may have completed in your part-time work.
Also, if you are already employed in a particular organization, it will be helpful to speak to your boss to offer you opportunities for some extra work that will help you walk towards the new direction. And, of course, another great way to gain work experience is by volunteering or taking contract-based projects outside your normal working hours.
6. Finally, Do It!
There are many individuals out there who are all prepared to make the final leap, but are under-confident about their skills. The last thing you would want to do is wait. Initially you may feel a bit overwhelmed, but slowly and gradually, you will find self confidence and find the process stimulating and exciting. Luckily, there are many out there to help you with the transition. Of course, your friends and family will provide significant help, but besides them, you can also seek help from professional and qualified career practitioners.
What Next?
Next is, revamp your resume in order to highlight your freshly gained skills and relevant experiences for your new line of work. In addition, start prepping for interviews. A job interview preparation is mandatory for nailing a well paying job. A professional coach may be able to guide you with job interview preparation.
It is imperative to draft a cover letter when applying for jobs. Your cover letter should include the reasons for your career change and how can you add value to their company. Make sure that you leave no stones unturned in preparing for your interviews.