If you’re feeling dissatisfied with your current career, you may be thinking that it’s time for a change. Switching professional paths is a big step and involves some planning and consideration. It can be a little intimidating or unfamiliar, but the benefits that can come from a big change make it well worth the effort. A new career can bring challenges that nourish your development. It can give you the pleasure of spending time doing something you love and the satisfaction of working towards your goals.
Entering a program that prepares you for a new field of work is likely on your list of things to do. For example, if you enjoy helping others and dream of working in the health care industry, dental assistant courses may be right for you. Or, perhaps you’ve always thought that being a business owner would make you feel challenged and satisfied. Maybe organization, management, and quality assurance interest you as subjects. In this case, you may be well suited to business college.
After your courses are complete, you can take the steps needed to pursue and secure a place in the industry you want to work in. To ultimately take the plunge with confidence, here’s how you can successfully change your career and find personal fulfillment and enjoyment.
How to Successfully Change Careers
The Power of Informational Interviews
In an informational interview, you can have your questions answered about the field you want to work in.
Instead of a job interview or a situation where you need to impress, it’s a way to talk to someone familiar with the industry and learn from them.
- Reach out to your contacts through people you know
- Cold-call people in jobs that interest you
- Use online platforms like LinkedIn
- Ask them questions
- See if you like the field
The interview can also be a way to get to know someone in the industry without the stress of needing to impress!
Volunteering for Experience
- Find a way to get some work experience related to your field
- Consider things that aren’t exactly the job you’re looking for but still give value
- Use the network you have to find opportunities
- Ask questions and learn as much as you can while you volunteer
Completing a Program to Upgrade Your Skills
- A specialized program looks excellent on your resume
- Pick up skills and knowledge that you need
- Meet others who are looking to enter the same industry
- Get access to instructors who know how you can prep for your new career
- Hands-on training gives you experience before you’re on the job
Shift Into a Growth Mindset
- You may have emotions about your previous job or making the change
- Think about good advice you’d give to a friend in your position
- Remember that you can improve your situation
- Switch from seeing negativity to seeing opportunity
Mentors can help you grow and improve in your new career. They can help you solve problems and build the skills that will help you succeed.
Be Clear About What You Want
- What would you like your time to be spent on?
- What things are important to you in life?
- What are your talents and strengths?
Think in an open-minded way and let your answers be personal.
Goals are crucial for motivation and can make a big change less stressful.
Make Your Action Plan
- Identify your goal
- Note obstacles or challenges
- Decide what skills you need
- Use to-do lists to make a plan
Remember to Think Positively
- Celebrate achievements
- Learn from mistakes
- Stay present
- Surround yourself with positive people
Sources:
https://www.thebalancecareers.com/successful-career-change-2058452
https://www.themuse.com/advice/8-steps-to-an-utterly-successful-career-change
https://www.thebalancecareers.com/how-an-informational-interview-can-help-your-career-2058564
https://addicted2success.com/motivation/5-important-facts-you-need-to-know-about-motivation/