Making a career change can feel like standing at the edge of a diving board – super exciting but also terrifying at the same time. Whether you’re burnt out in your current role, fancy trying something completely different, or being made redundant has forced your hand, pivoting to a new career doesn’t have to be as daunting as it seems.
Here’s how to make the leap with confidence.
Start with Some Soul-Searching
Before you dive headfirst into job applications, take a moment to really think about what you want from your next career move. What’s driving this change?
- Are you after a better work-life balance?
- Want more money?
- Looking for something that lights a fire in your belly?
Understanding your ‘why’ will help you stay focused when the going gets tough because there’ll be moments when you question everything.
Think about your transferable skills too. You’ve probably got more of them than you realise.
- That project management experience from your marketing days? Gold dust for loads of different industries.
- Your customer service skills? Every employer wants someone who can actually talk to people properly.
- The ability to remain calm in the face of immense provocation? Perfect for managing Gen Z team members.
Bridge the Skills Gap
Let’s be honest – you might not have all the skills needed for your dream career just yet, and that’s perfectly normal. The key is being strategic about filling those gaps. Online courses, evening classes, and professional certifications can work wonders for your CV and confidence.
Don’t feel like you need to become an expert overnight though. Many employers value enthusiasm and willingness to learn just as much as existing expertise. Sometimes showing that you’ve started learning demonstrates more commitment than someone who’s been coasting in the same role for years while shopping online and taking a nap in the break room.
Network Like Your Career Depends on It
For most people, networking sounds about as appealing as a root canal. But here’s the thing: most jobs aren’t even advertised publicly, they’re filled through connections, recommendations, and people who know people. Start small and reach out to contacts in your target industry, attend relevant events (even virtual ones count), and don’t be afraid to ask for informational interviews.
LinkedIn is your best friend here, so update your profile to reflect your career aspirations, join industry groups, and engage with content from companies you’d love to work for. Sometimes a thoughtful comment on a post can open doors you never knew existed.
Craft a Compelling Career Change Story
When you’re applying for roles outside your traditional field, you need to tell a story that makes sense. Instead of mumbling something vague about needing a change, talk about how you are ready for a new challenge and are keen to learn new skills. Be honest about your motivations but focus on what you’re moving towards, not what you’re running from.
Don’t say you jumped ship after having an argument with your boss but do say you felt underutilized in your previous role.
Professional recruitment agencies like Allen Associates can help because they understand how to position career changers and often have insights into what employers in different sectors are really looking for.
Career pivots rarely happen overnight, so be patient with yourself. You might face some rejections along the way, but don’t let them knock your confidence. Each ‘no’ is bringing you closer to the right ‘yes’.
