Are You Contemplating A Change Of Career or Industry?

Switching careers or industries can be a very exciting yet often challenging process. Whether you are seeking out better opportunities, a change of direction or a role that aligns more with your passions, goals or aspirations, there is plenty you can do to help you make a smooth transition.

Start by assessing your current skills and experience then identify those areas in which skills can be transferred to your new career. For example, the ability to communicate with people from every professional level and background as well as clients, knowledge of project management and a knack for good problem solving are highly valuable across various industries. Highlight these skills in your CV in order to show prospective employers that you have the foundation to succeed, even if what you are aiming towards is something totally new to you.

Sometimes it is hard not to be impulsive but when you are thinking about changing your career or industry, you must take the time to research your new industry well. Develop an understanding of the key trends, the skills that are in demand and the specific qualifications that employers look for. This will help you to gain a clear perspective of what to expect and how you can then position yourself effectively in order to make the transition.

You may find that there will be gaps in your knowledge which may hinder your progression into another job so consider upskilling through various courses or certifications in order to gain the necessary and required skills. Local colleges and a variety of platforms such as LinkedIn learning can offer a range of courses that can boost your expertise as well as leaving you feeling far more confident regarding your prospects.

The power of networking can not be overestimated and is an essential part of the process when changing your career path. Attend industry events, join online forums and connect with professionals where you can. Informational interviews can also provide valuable insights into the new field you wish to embark on and they will help to build useful connections and open doors to new professional opportunities. There is some truth in the old saying, ‘It’s not what you know but who you know.’

If you don’t feel fully ready to dive straight into a new career, you could try starting with some freelance work, a side project or even an internship if you are able.This will allow you to gain necessary experience, build a portfolio and make valuable connections without the pressure of a full career switch.

Deciding to change your careers can be unsettling but with the correct approach, it is entirely possible to find success and fulfillment in a new field of work. So, start to focus on your transferable skills, fully invest in learning and start building a network of professional connections to ease the transition and the worry!