January 8, 2015
There are a number of reasons which lead one to consider career changes and this may include the organization where you work in is downsizing or you find something more interesting than what you do. For successful career changes, there are a number of factors to consider from your current career to the new career that you want to join. Take into consideration that this is what you will be doing for most of your time.
Career changes must take the following into consideration:
- Likes and Dislikes
- Career Research
- Transferable Skills
- Continuing and Ongoing Education
- Networking
- Experience
Ensure that you do a complete assessment on likes and dislikes on the career that you want to enter in. It is easy to focus first on what you don’t like and it might be the easy thing to do. You might find that some dislikes may be from your current career, the company that you are working for or even your boss. Secondly examine your likes as this will help in switching from one career to another. This might take a bit longer but I invite you to take your time. What do you like doing? What are your passions? What do you love to do in your spare time? Having tabulated your likes and dislikes, you will be in a better position to make an informed decision on switching careers.
Research the career you are interested in. This is an important aspect when it comes to making changes in your career. However, it doesn’t mean that your research is limited to just the career. Take time and be curious about what impact this potential career path has on other industries, on the environment, on the impact it has on your values. Having rediscovered your passion and interest, work carefully in finding those careers that meet your criteria. The extent of research is dependent on the change that you want to make.
Skills that you can transfer to your new career; there are some of the skills that you are in possession and use in your current career that may be applicable in your new career. Skills such as organizational skills, communication skills, and leadership skills can be transferred from one career to the other. Leverage on most of your current skills and experiences to your new career.
Training and education; this is an important aspect when considering a change in careers. You may find that the career that you are interested in needs other skills and training than what you have. This may call for an update of your skills and even expanding your knowledge. Do not be in a rush while doing this but be slow and inquire whether your current employer may help you in updating some skills which will be relevant in your new career. Some careers may require a degree and certification. Ensure that the institution that you will be joining for these qualifications is accredited by the relevant bodies.
Networking is definitely an integral aspect when considering a career change even when you are in your 30’s. People within your network will guide you on leads in securing employment; they will feed you with information about specific organization or companies which are likely to take you up in your new career. Your network may include your family, colleagues, and friends among others. Join professional networks as this will see you succeed in your career. Get in touch with the professionals in your new field as this is likely to broaden the information you require in sailing through in your new career.
Gain the relevant experience; this can be through volunteering, engaging in part time jobs as they are likely to give the exposure and experience in your new career. Once in the job market be flexible in almost everything as this will greatly benefit you in getting roots in your new career.
Still unsure if you should change your career? Take this quiz. Or talk to me, I’d love to hear from you!