6 Ways to Change Career Without Starting Over Completely
Feeling bored, burnt out, or simply wanting a change? It may seem daunting to change your career, regardless of how deeply you are invested in it. The good news? Change is great. Sometimes, change is necessary. And it doesn’t have to be scary. You can pivot from your job or industry without starting completely afresh. By utilizing your current skills and leveraging your existing experience, you can make the change you’ve been searching for.
1. Identify Transferable Skills
The first thing you’re going to want to do is identify any transferrable skills you may have. You can do this by creating a list of the skills you know you’ve acquired. These can be skills you’ve learned in your current or previous jobs, such as communication, leadership, project management, and punctuality. These are examples of great general skills that can be applied to a wide variety of job positions and industries. Looking at this list, you’ll be able to spot your strengths, helping you to move forward in finding a new career.
2. Explore Roles That Overlap with Your Current Experience
Once you have your list of transferrable skills, it’s time to start exploring applicable roles. This could include looking at jobs adjacent to the industry you’re currently in. For example, a teacher could look into a learning and development role. Remaining in a similar sector means you will have the relevant skills and experience for the job, but you’ll still be getting the change you need.
3. Upskill Strategically (Not from Scratch)
If you’re finding you don’t have the exact necessary skills for the new career you’re drawn to, you could consider taking short courses or certifications. There are plenty of free or affordable resources available to you online, such as LinkedIn Learning or Coursera. You can access a range of focused courses to suit your needs and add to your CV, broadening your skillset and, in turn, the range of jobs available for you to pursue. You don’t need a whole new degree to pivot your career. A short course may be enough.
4. Work With a Specialist Recruiter
Another great idea to assist you in your search for change is to work with a specialist job recruiter. They can help you match your skills with career opportunities. Headway Recruitment Leeds, for example, is a trusted company that can provide you with support in finding roles that fit you and your background, as well as your new goals. Specialist recruiters will help to make the whole process smoother and less stressful for you.
5. Rebrand Yourself Professionally
Rebranding isn’t limited only to organizations. Professionally rebranding yourself is a great way to open up new doors and opportunities. It could involve updating your CV, creating an up-to-date LinkedIn profile, and possibly developing a portfolio. Show off your work, previous experience, and the skills you have, and show how they are desirable to employers. Create a sleek and modern CV that’s easy to read and visually appealing. This will make your applications stand out and encourage employers to consider you for hire.
6. Stay Patient and Resilient
Making a change in your career isn’t an easy thing to do, but it’s possible. It may not happen overnight, but staying resilient is one of the most important parts of the process. Be patient and know that this change could take time, but it will ultimately be worth it in the long run. Stay motivated and celebrate small wins, knowing that in time, you will get the break you’re searching for.
Final Words
Changing your career doesn’t mean starting from scratch. Remember that you have numerous skills transferable between jobs, and know that with the right strategy and support, you can start afresh without starting anew.
