If you’re looking to change your career and grow as an individual – here are 10 steps to do so.
Step 1: Assess Likes and Dislikes
One of the main reasons why many people decide to change their careers is that they hate their current job, company, or even boss. The easier part of this process is identifying the dislikes, but you will not be able to determine the right career path to take if you don’t know your likes. What it is that you like doing when you are not at work or when you are home? What is that thing that excites you? What is your passion? If you are not sure about this, then you should take career assessments. The main idea behind this is spending time rediscovering yourself – and finding a new career path using assessment.
You may find that something which you have only had a glancing look at is something you should potentially pursue. For instance, as a child you probably had dreams of flying a plane, being a firefighter, etc., things that are exciting and appeal to young and impressionable minds. Why did you stop? You can go to a flight school such as Nationwide Aviation for example, and keep that dream going. You never know what a real look into who we are can pull up.
Step 2. Research New Careers
Once you find what it is you like doing, take some time and do research on careers that are centered around things you are passionate about. If you feel insecure or unsure, don’t worry because this is part and parcel of a career change. The amount of research you are going to do will be determined by how big of a change you are making; for example, if you want to become a physical therapist you’ll want to look into everything from the entry options/requirements to a physical therapist salary to make sure that it is going to be a viable option for you.
There are many different places online where you can find a lot of information about the career you are interested in. There is also the skills matching service provided by the U.S Department of Labor. The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook has basic job information that will help you with the process.
Step 3: Transferable Skills
Leveraging your current experience and skills to a new career is a good idea. There are some skills such as planning, leadership, communication, etc. that can apply to the new career you are starting. When you start the new career, you might be surprised at how you have a solid experience even though you are getting started. There is a good chance you have some skills that can be transferred to a new career.
Step 4: Education and Training
You might find that your new career forces you to update your skills and also expand your knowledge. If the skill you are interested in learning is something that can be used in your current job, then you can try seeing whether your employer is ready to meet the cost. You can also look online to find resources that suit you and your needs. For example, if you want to develop your skills in and knowledge of tech, why not participate in one of these in demand tech events to learn more about anything from the IoT (Internet of Things) to Python? Make sure you start slow. Start with one or two courses, then see whether you truly love the subject. If you need a certification or degree, be sure to look at the accreditation of the school so you can learn more about their success when it comes to placement and future job opportunities.
Step 5: Networking
Networking is one of the biggest tools when it comes to succeeding after changing your career. When you have people in your network, they can help you by giving job leads, offering advice and information on a given industry or company, and they can also introduce you to other people in the industry, meaning you are expanding your network even more. You might be wondering how this is supposed to work because you think you don’t have a network, but there is a good chance you do. Networking involves your friends, colleagues, and even family. A good way to broaden your network is by joining a professional organization in the field you are interested in. You can also contact some alumni from your college who are in the field you are interested in. Informational interviews is a very important tool when it comes to networking.
Step 6: Gain Experience
One thing to keep in mind is you are getting started on a new career from square one. If you can get a part-time job or volunteer in the new career, you are going to solidify your decisions while getting some experience in the new field. There are different ways you can gain more experience, and this can involve working nights, weekends, or any time you have free time.
Step 7: Finding A Mentor
One of the biggest life decision you are going to make is changing career, which is why it is normal to get a little overwhelmed. When you have a mentor, he/she can help you when you are having a rough patch. Some mentors will allow you to take advantage of their network. The mentor you choose doesn’t have to be a powerful one, although the more the power the more you can gain from them.
Step 8: Change In Or Out
Some people have been able to change their careers without changing their employers. The unfortunate part is the fact that very few employers are progressive enough to realize that a happy employee can be both productive and happy in a different capacity. When you are changing your field, you will most likely be forced to change your employer, but you should not overlook your current employer. One thing to keep in mind is you don’t have to start asking about the job until you are very sure about it and it is something you feel like you need to do.
Step 9: Job-Hunting Basics
If it has been long since you used your job-hunting tools and skills, it is time to refresh your memory. It is a good idea to spend time going through tutorials that will help you when looking for a job in your new career. Your career documents must look professional and your CV must stand out with relevant information.
Step 10: Being Flexible
Flexibility is something you are going to need in everything – from salary to employments status and relocation. Have goals, but you should be ready for changes and setbacks – but you shouldn’t let these challenges get you down. You can even start your own business or consultation.
