A career change can be frustrating at any point in your life. Having to start all over is a daunting experience and a challenge, same as any other major change we must do in our lives.
Knowing that the most promising career options change with time, career changes become more and more common among people. By simply looking for a way to live better, people decide to switch their original career choice to one that is most promising in the present or near future.
Regardless of your reasons for changing your current career, this risky step must be taken with care. Here are 11 effective tips for a successful career change.
1. Take your time
People who make rush and impulsive decisions often regret this later, especially when it comes to such important changes like career change. Quitting your current job is not a thing you should do without thinking ahead. In many cases, this leads people to end up broke, without any career prospect or plan for the future. Therefore, if you are thinking of a career change, take your time and plan ahead.
2. Find career alternatives
What do you want to work? Determine your goals and think of career alternatives. If you decide to quit your job, you should have an idea as to which career you want to pursue next.
3. Research your fields of interest
The best way to ensure your chosen career is better than the one you already have is if you research. Look into the opportunities this career brings, check if your educational background fits the requirements of the field and most importantly, see if the benefits of that job exceed the ones you have now. Sometimes a career change is not worthy enough the risk of quitting your current job.
4. Determine your likes and dislikes
Learn what you like about your current job. Does the new job offer these advantages?
Once you are done looking into the likes, think of the things that made you quit the first job in the first place. Does the new job include the disadvantages of the previous one? If the answer is yes, such career change is not the smartest choice for you.
5. Pinpoint your best skills
Think of the things you are best at. These are the things that will help you leave a good impression with your new boss and get higher on the career scale rapidly. Once you pinpoint your best skills, you will know what to do to get the job you want.
6. Get more training
In most cases, a career change will require some additional knowledge. Do not be afraid to update your skills to get the new job. This can take some time and even cost you a small fortune, so make sure it is worth it in the long run.
7. Network
Seek out people who work in your target industry and do some networking. Be bold and ask questions and tips about your future career choice. These people may be a great source of ideas, but can also inform you on opportunities that are currently available.
8. Volunteer
Volunteering is one of the best ways to gain some experience, especially if the new field is one you have never worked in before. This is a great way to meet people who share the same interests and career goals as you, so start seeing this step as a crucial part of your future success.
9. Speak to your boss
Career change can be stressful for both you and your current boss. When you decide to change a career, be communicative and open to your boss. This will make the transition easier and help you avoid issues along the way.
10. Seek advice
You can also speak to people who have been through the career change process before. They can help you by informing you on the pitfalls you should avoid, and give you some tips about quitting your old job and applying for the new job.
11. Set many goals
Do not aim to one goal only – split your goals into short and long-term goals. This will give you a clear idea as to what you should achieve, and help you get motivated along the way.
Are you ready to take on the challenge of changing your career? Remember, with some preparation and research, finding a better career path is not as difficult as you may think.
About the author
Chris Richardson is a journalist, editor, and a blogger at Essay Geeks. He loves to write, learn new things, and meet new outgoing people. Chris is also fond of traveling, sports, and playing the guitar. Follow him on Facebook and Google+.
