If you’re feeling unfulfilled in your job or find yourself wondering if there’s something else out there for you, these are common signs that you may consider a career change. Many people experience these signs but are left feeling stuck and find themselves saying, “I want to change careers but don’t know what to do,” so don’t feel alone.
However, knowing that you are seeking a career change and actually taking action are two different things. For many, the fear of the unknown, paired with potential self-doubt, hinders their decision-making, especially when they are unsure how to start. Let’s explore how to work through these feelings and help you navigate career pivots with clarity and purpose.
1. Assess Yourself & Your Situation
Before firing off job applications, take a step back and reflect. Take inventory and assess. Ask yourself:
- What career capital do I have/can offer?
- Which aspects of my last role did I dislike or maybe outgrow?
- What do I value, what are my interests, and motivators?
- What am I seeking in a new role? (eg. More flexibility, new industry, etc.)
2. Uncertainty Is A Push For You to Explore
If you got to the last reflection question and didn’t have a clear answer, that is okay. There are many next steps you can take to find clarity and inspiration.
- Set up informational interviews with people whose roles pose some interest to you.
- Do research, join industry-specific groups, or attend different events to try and steer your thinking while also learn about potential avenues.
- Look to a career coach or mentor, or reach out to a staffing agency that has professionals who are equipped to help you in these scenarios.
Connecting with people can be beneficial. Entrepreneur Ben Casnocha suggests that those making career pivots think about opportunities as not simply floating in the sky, but are “attached to people.” This framing suggests job postings are not mere job openings, and you should switch your starting point from just a job opening to building a relationship. Instead, start by connecting or networking with someone. The benefits of this are abundant, such as being able to present your whole self beyond your resume, while also getting the opportunity to learn.
3. Develop an Actionable Plan
Before you move forward, having an outlined, actionable plan to guide you and track your progress is a useful strategy in building your path forward with intention. First, determine your clear goal, like which type of role and what industry, and then begin to map out how you will execute it. In doing so, consider:
- Will you need to adjust your resume and highlight transferable skills?
- Do you need to acquire new skills or obtain new certifications?
- Should you expand your network or reach out to a mentor?
- Do you need to update your LinkedIn and personal brand?
After consideration of the above questions, make short-term goals to help you track your progress and remain focused. Having an actionable outline broken down into smaller steps or goals is key, and it steers you away from just “figuring it out.”
4. Stay Motivated
Making a career change can be daunting and challenging. As long as you understand what you’re looking for and why, you can create an action plan to set you up for success. It’s normal to feel stuck. Don’t hesitate to look at others who have completed successful career shifts for inspiration and confidence.
Remember that changing careers isn’t starting over; it’s about ensuring you are fulfilled in your career and your purpose is aligned with what you are doing. Remain patient and persistent, as this process takes time and continuous effort. Expect potential setbacks, but don’t let self-doubt stop your progress. If you approach career pivots with commitment and strategy, they can be empowering. You don’t need all the answers or to be entirely sure to begin; you just need to take action!
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