What do you do if you're an electrical engineer afraid of failure when contemplating a career change?

1 Assess Risks

As an electrical engineer considering a career change, it's crucial to assess the risks involved pragmatically. Begin by evaluating the stability and prospects in your current role versus the potential new industry. Understand that risk is inherent in any career move, but also that your technical skills are transferable. Consider the worst-case scenario and plan for it. If the new path doesn't work out, could you return to your previous field or find a similar role? By planning for contingencies, you can mitigate the fear of failure and approach your career transition with greater confidence.

2 Skill Transfer

Recognize the versatility of your electrical engineering skill set. Your technical knowledge, from circuit design to power systems, is applicable in many sectors. Additionally, soft skills such as project management, teamwork, and communication are highly valued. Identify core competencies that are relevant to your desired career and focus on how they can be an asset. This perspective not only boosts your confidence but also makes you an attractive candidate to potential employers who seek multidisciplinary expertise.

4 Continuous Learning

Continuous learning is a cornerstone of engineering; it's equally important when transitioning careers. Explore certifications or additional training that could bridge the gap between electrical engineering and your new field. This could involve taking courses in business management if you're moving into a corporate role or studying software development if you're pivoting to tech. Showing a commitment to learning not only prepares you for new challenges but also demonstrates to employers your dedication to professional development.

6 Strategic Planning

Finally, approach your career change with strategic planning. Set clear, achievable goals and create a timeline for your transition. This might include setting aside financial reserves to cushion any period of adjustment or planning for any additional education you might need. By having a structured plan, you can alleviate some of the uncertainty that comes with change and maintain focus on your long-term career objectives. Remember, success is not the absence of failure but the ability to persist through challenges.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?