Change your career, change your life: How to make a career change

Are you considering a career change? You’re not alone. While once people stayed in one career for their whole working lives, this is changing.

According to Seek, 57% of workers have changed careers, with 19% having made a switch in the last year. However, changing careers can be a daunting process. So, how do you go about it?

Here’s some tips for those who want to make a career change according to Indeed, Seek and Hays

Table of Contents

Career change tips

Seek advice

It is advisable to speak to somebody who has changed careers before. They can provide advice on what worked for them and mistakes to avoid. It is also beneficial to speak to somebody working in the career path you hope to pursue. They may be able to provide advice on the best way to get there.

Tell your boss

Let your boss know that you are planning to change careers. Explain why you want to change careers and the role you hope to move to. Being open and honest can make transitioning to a new career much smoother.

Evaluate your skills and interests

Identify the skills you have that could transfer to another position. For example, skills such as communication, time management and organisation are required across many industries.

Create a list of occupations

Create a list of five to ten different occupations that would suit your skills and interests.

Research jobs from your list

Take a look at the job descriptions, requirements and educational qualifications of the jobs you have listed. You should also consider factors like remuneration and job security.

Determine requirements you need

Consider any steps you would need to take to pursue the careers you have identified. For example, would you need to pursue additional qualifications or training?

Volunteer

Volunteering is a great way to gain experience in areas you haven’t worked in before. It can be useful to get an idea of what it might be like to pursue a particular career.

Create an action plan

Firstly, decide on which career is most feasible. Write down a series of short, medium and long term career goals and how you will achieve them. Note down any obstacles you may encounter and how you could overcome them.

Track your progress

Make sure you measure your progress towards your career goals. If you learn any new skills, record these.

Shift your online brand

Alter your online image to better reflect the career you are looking to pursue. Use your social media profiles to highlight relevant skills. If you need help, Public Service Resumes is pleased to offer a LinkedIn profile writing service.

Update your resume

Update your resume to reflect where you want your career to go. Make sure to highlight the skills required for the career you are targeting.

Use your connections

See if a family member or friend knows somebody in the industry you are looking to pursue. They may be able to answer questions about the career or even recommend you for a position. You can also use LinkedIn to connect with people in your target industry.

Cold emails

You don’t have to wait for a position to be advertised. Consider reaching out to people who work at the companies you hope to work for. You could even ask for an informational interview, to gain more information about the position you are hoping to pursue. The more people you connect with, the more opportunities you will be exposed to.