Career Transitions: How to Take the First Step

There are many reasons people want to switch careers. You may be looking to grow, feel that you have advanced as much as you can in your current job, or feel burned out. If you’re considering switching careers, you may want to research professional options as well as why you want to make a change. 

You might switch careers to:

• Have a more flexible work schedule
• Earn a higher salary
• Work under a different leadership team
• Reduce stress
• Feel appreciated

If you’re stuck in your career, there are several challenges to overcome, let’s look at what you can do to make those challenges seem more manageable.

Evaluating your job satisfaction is key to determining if it’s time for a change. Keep a log to help you document your daily reactions to your position. This way, you’ll have a better idea about the type of environment you want to work in, how much you like your day-to-day responsibilities, and if the management style is a good fit for your professional development.

Look to Your Interests

Depending on your experience, your successes might have happened in volunteer roles, professional work experience, or classroom projects. Reviewing these details will help you both determine what interests you and also how you might use highlight them in a resume for a new career.

What’s Out There?

Brainstorm ideas for career alternatives by researching career options, and discussing your core values and skills with friends, family, and networking contacts. If you’re having difficulty coming up with ideas, consider meeting with a career counselor for professional advice.

Lean Into the Unknown

Find out as much as you can about any fields that interest you. Reach out to personal contacts in those sectors for informational interviews. Shadow professionals in fields of primary interest to observe work firsthand.

Invest in You

Investigate educational opportunities that would bridge your background to your new field. Consider taking an evening course at a local college or an online course. Spend some time at one-day or weekend seminars. Look for ways to develop new skills in your current job which would pave the way for a change.

Finding the right career for you will allow you to find fulfillment and happiness. This benefits you in both your professional life and personal life. Such a significant portion of our lives is spent at work. If you don’t truly enjoy that part of your life, those negative feelings can creep into your personal life as well.