Whether you’re moving to a new location or simply need a new path away from the norm, changing careers can be a thrilling experience.
If you’re not sure how to make a career change, it’s important to keep several things in mind before you decide to take the leap.
Read on to discover how you can change careers and do it the right way for an easy, seamless transition.
Decide Where You Shine
Before you can really jump into a new career with both feet, it’s crucial to understand what aspects of your current job you’re good at. If you enjoy bookkeeping or accounting but find that customer service is not your forte, focus on the things you excel at to help you pick out the perfect new career based on your own skillset.
In order to successfully move to a new career, you need to stay focused on areas of your job where you do very well. You can take an online career assessment test to help you hone in on some industries or skills that will serve you the best when you’re looking for a new position.
Write down a list of the things you know you can do well and include a separate list of the areas where your work could use some improvement. Understanding the skills and tasks that you know you enjoy and can do with precision will make it much easier to move on to a new career when the time comes.
How to Make a Career Change: Narrow Down Your Choices
Once you’ve done some self-discovery and focused on areas where you shine, it’s time to really hone in on the jobs you think you would want. Take note of the industries and businesses in your area that will fit into your lifestyle and serve you in the best way possible.
Explore current openings so you have an idea of what different companies are looking for, and what they will pay. Never take a new career that pays you less unless there is plenty of room to advance or unless the pay cut is not too significant that it will hinder your ability to handle your finances.
Make a list of pros and cons based on each selection of open jobs you find. This will make it much easier to decide where to apply and where you might decide to pass. Be sure to read each job description and listed salary thoroughly so you’re aware of what the other companies have to offer.
Do Thorough Research
For many people who wonder how to make a career change, inside information can help them in their decision. Talk to other employees who work for companies you’re interested in. You can also check out some job review websites that list honest reviews from actual employees.
Make sure you take advantage of websites like LinkedIn to get an inside view of how a company operates. The more you know about the company in advance and how its employees feel about working there, the more confident you’ll be that you’re making the right decision.
Talk to people in your network and use these tips to help guide you on the path toward a better career. People with inside information or past experience can offer an amazing insight that you might not be able to get elsewhere. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the management style, potentials for raises, and other aspects before you take the plunge.
Update Your Resume
Whether you’ve been at your current job for six months of 10 years, you should always give your resume a good, thorough makeover. Read it carefully and make sure that all the dates are correct as well as all of your skills.
Think about every single thing you do at each job, and make sure you emphasize areas where you really thrive and excel. Add important keywords to your resume that will pique the interest of new prospective employers.
It’s also a good idea to have a third party take a look at your resume and provide recommendations. A professional resume writing service could also be well worth the investment if you think your resume needs some polishing. Never assume that the resume you used to get your last job will also get your new one.
Don’t Expect Perfection
You might be considering a career change because you’re unhappy with your current employer. Keep in mind that no company is perfect, and there will always be some pitfalls.
A career change is a major life event, so tread carefully and keep in mind that nothing is perfect no matter where you go. Remember to set realistic expectations as you research new companies.
As long as you have the right goals in place, changing careers can be an enthralling, fulfilling experience. Just remember that moving up the ladder takes time and that any new job is a learning experience.
Make the Switch
Once you know more about how to make a career change the right way, it will be much easier to make the switch. Think about your long-term goals, revamp your resume, and focus on the areas where you really excel at what you do.
Talk to other employees and use your network to your advantage whenever possible. With some patience and the right mindset, you can find a career that will make you feel happy and fulfilled.
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