The COVID-19 pandemic ushered in a period of intense transformations on all fronts. People faced the loss of loved ones and even employment. Believe it or not, there’s a lesson hidden in it for all of us. It has forced us to take a step back and look at our lives very closely. For some people, the introspection has brought them to a decision to re-evaluate their career path.  Have you thought about changing your career?

There could be various reasons why you might want to pursue a new career. It can be for stress reduction, salary hike, more flexibility, or the pursuit of emotional enrichment. However, the idea of changing your career can seem extremely daunting, especially if you are clueless about your next move. Fret not because some degree of anticipation is natural.

Here are some tips you can follow if you are planning your career leap:

1. Assess your current position and personal goals

The first step that you need to take is self-evaluation. You need to assess your current motivation, values, skills, and interests. You will know if it’s time to switch things up when your current job or the field you are in no longer satisfy you.  Go back in time to connect with your core skills—something that you may have buried somewhere deep down in your subconscious. A little inner work should provide a lot of clarity.  Think about what will make you more fulfilled.  What truly motivates you?

2. Take to learning

One great way to make your career transition smoother and more secure is by preparing in advance for what’s to come. Learning and skill development, especially in the niche you have chosen, can help you get ready for the next step. The internet has a wealth of resources that you can use to enhance your learning. You can explore your interests and sink deeper into the trade. Check out job postings for different types of positions. Consider types of organizations that appeal to you.  Learn more about what industries and job roles present the types of opportunities that excite you.  In addition, acquiring certifications will bring you to par with people who are already working in the new domain that you have chosen for your career.

3. Get serious about social media

If you are changing your career, social media platforms, particularly LinkedIn, can help you get exposure to the career you have chosen. Changing your career, even after having a successful trajectory, may require you to rebrand yourself completely. You need to catch the eyes of the hiring professionals from the niche so that you can connect with them for potential jobs. Also, do get in touch with your target companies on professional networks to know more about them, their recruiting criteria, and the industry at large.  Use your personal network to learn more roles you are interested in.

4. Look for temporary work

Changing your career is indeed a big move, but not an impossible one. The job postings, recruiting requirements, and other terms of employment of your new career can be overwhelming. But the key lies in balancing the situation somehow. Look for freelance gigs or temporary work so that a stream of income keeps flowing in. You can choose to work temporarily in a position that helps you learn new skills and get exposed to new organizations.  Temporary work can help you expand your network and often lead to a permanent position.

Considering Changing your Career?

Exploring why you are not satisfied with your current career, reviewing your personal goals and learning more about other options will help you make the right move.  Temporary work may allow you to try something new and lead you to new opportunities.

You may also find our post “Stand Out as a Job Candidate” helpful.