Although entering a new career feels daunting to most people, it does not have to.
After all, it is a normal part of professional life. Your transition will be much more straightforward if you strategize and prepare accordingly.
Should You Look For A New Career?
Career changes became the new normal in 2022, with millions of professionals deciding they wanted something different. In what many call “The Great Resignation,” over 72 million people in the United States quit their jobs. It was a record high for separations, even outpacing the turnover rate during COVID-19.
Arguably, there has never been a better time to switch positions or professions. After all, many employers have already adapted to support this massive wave of potential new hires. No matter what stage you are in your career, you have a solid chance to make your desire for a job change a reality.
Why Should You Change Jobs?
A new career is not a decision most people make lightly. Many decide they need a change because they hope for a better work environment, higher pay, and faster progression. Sometimes, getting a new job is the only way they can make these goals possible.
No reason is too small. Maybe you want to work from home instead of the office, or you would feel more comfortable being employed by someone whose values align with yours — whatever the case is, you do not need to justify a change if you sincerely desire it.
Although changing your career can feel daunting, it is a natural and common part of a professional journey. In fact, almost 70% of the workforce actively searches for new positions while in their current roles. If you feel the timing is right or you see yourself happier in a new profession, you should try to realize your goals.
How Can You Successfully Transition To A New Career?
A strategy is vital for a successful transition to a new career. Even if you have a solid skillset and many years of experience, you should still approach a change like this with patience and thoughtfulness.
1. Upskill and update yourself
No matter how long you have been in your current role, upskilling is an essential strategy for success — it shows potential employers you have drive, passion and commitment. Look into getting certifications and learning new skills. Even if you cannot get official recognition or rewards, you still can display your efforts on your resume.
It is also in your best interest to update yourself professionally. Once you identify the differences in your potential current roles, you must focus on your potential areas of improvement. You can volunteer or take classes to bring yourself up to speed.
2. Identify your transferable skills
You should identify your transferable skills, whether you are moving to a similar profession or switching to a dramatically different industry. It narrows your options and prepares you for interviews. Knowing what you can carry to your new career can help you enormously.
3. Reformat your resume
Around 99% of the biggest U.S. companies use applicant tracking systems to filter candidates. As a result, resumes lacking specific keyphrases automatically land in the reject pile. If you have been in your current position for a while, it is best to update your resume.
You will open your transition options up dramatically if you reformat your resume and such supportive materials as an email for job posting correctly. Include keywords, make your text scannable, and keep things concise. Minor adjustments can help it get past the software and into a human’s hands. AI resume builders can help streamline the process of tailoring your resume to specific job descriptions, ensuring that your application stands out to potential employers.
4. Assess your professional value
Take stock of your education, accolades, certifications, and experience before moving to a new career. These factors make up your professional value, determining your likelihood of getting hired. During your job search, compare them to each listing’s requirements to calculate your chance of success.
Even if you think a position is beyond your professional reach, applying is in your best interest. This strategy simply helps you prioritize your applications and understand your odds of success. You will have a straightforward transition if you have the means to set realistic expectations.
5. Connect with your network
Your professional and personal network are invaluable assets during a career change. Reach out to your industry contacts, former clients, and friends to see if they can help you. You are much more likely to succeed if you leverage your connections — you will find opportunities faster and have a higher chance of getting hired.
Best of all, most of your connections can provide valuable tips that result in a new career. For example, they may recommend certain companies or tell you how to please a specific interviewer. Their professional advice is an excellent alternative to online job boards.
When Should You Change Jobs?
Although the specifics differ for every person, the best time to transition to a new career is when the current one stagnates. If you find yourself with minimal raises, no promotions, and a disengaged attitude for an extended period, you should strongly consider pursuing other opportunities. You will likely have much better professional growth somewhere else.
Even if those factors do not apply to you, the desire for change is reason enough. However, you must organize yourself and prepare well in advance of the actual transition. Searching online job boards and scheduling interviews without a strategy can complicate the entire process.
Enjoy Your New Career!
Even though entering a new career is usually very involved and time-consuming, it can be a great experience. After all, it is likely a relatively rare experience for you.
If you strategize correctly and build yourself up professionally during the transition, you will see great success in your new role.
