You want to change careers, but how can you gain experience in a new field before making the leap?

Seek volunteer or internship opportunities in your desired field, even part-time, to gain practical exposure and learn from experienced professionals. Additionally, I look for side or freelance projects related to the new area, which can be carried out outside of working hours. Invest time in online courses, workshops or relevant certifications to acquire knowledge and skills specific to your new career. Also seek mentoring from established professionals in the field, seeking guidance and advice on the transition process. Finally, I take every opportunity to network and meet people in the field, which can lead to opportunities for learning and growth.

To gain experience in a new career before transitioning, consider volunteering, interning, taking relevant courses, networking, starting side projects, freelancing, and seeking mentorship. These steps help build skills, knowledge, and connections in the desired field, facilitating a smoother career transition.

Whether I'm currently empIoyed or not, I research job descriptions for roles I'm interested in to identify the skills and qualifications employers are looking for. I look at both technical skills and interpersonal skills. I compare the skills and qualifications required with my own professional history. I then pinpoint any gaps between my existing skills and what is required in my target field(s). I analyze whether any of my skills are transferable before I pursue any training or upskilling oppotunities.

Embracing online courses and certifications is a valuable strategy for skill enhancement. This approach provides flexibility, affordability, and a diverse array of learning options. By enrolling in relevant online courses, individuals can acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, fostering continuous professional development. The ability to showcase earned certificates on resumes or portfolios further adds credibility, signaling commitment to staying current in a dynamic field. This proactive pursuit of learning not only boosts confidence but also positions individuals as adaptable and well-informed contributors to their chosen industry.

If you're currently employed, see if your organization offers free training opportunities. If they do, find courses that help you acquire new skills for a potential career change. If you are looking for a job, leverage any current professional (and personal) connections who might have courses they can "share" with you. For example, in some cases, LinkedIn Learning allows you to share courses with your connections for free for a short time period. Explore your feed to see if any connections are sharing interesting and relevant trainings that might help you.

Engaging in online communities and events is a powerful avenue for professional growth. By connecting with individuals who share similar interests and goals, you not only expand your network but also gain insights from experts and stay abreast of industry trends. This dynamic interaction fosters a supportive environment, offering opportunities to learn, share experiences, and discover new avenues for personal and career development. Active participation in these online spaces not only enhances your knowledge base but also positions you as a proactive and collaborative contributor within your chosen field.

Esses eventos online, s?o bem bacanas pois sempre há troca de experiência, insights e vis?es diferentes, ainda sim, acredito que os presenciais proporcionam uma experiência mais completa, no que diz respeito a troca de informa??es e network, mas os eventos online facilitam e muito na gest?o de tempo, horário e localidade uma vez que todos os participantes podem ser de vários lugares diferentes.

I created a fairly basic work portfolio only recently. I used Google Slides to highlight my career achievements because most of it is publicly available and part of a team effort. I still highlight my individual role and provide relevant data, such as the number of lessons I developed or helped develop. I also tweak my descriptions based on the role I'm seeking to better fit the industry and/or job description.

Don't let the perfect be the enemy of the good. Chasing extra experience could cost you time that might be better spent identifying the skills you already have and creating a CV/Covering letter that properly highlights them and targets the jobs you want. Admin, presentation, public relations and comms, planning and delivery. Its likely your current role is so much more than a single job title. Note down everything you do in a day and consider the skills you already have. Remember that looking for work IS work. Be efficient with your time and get applying. Get started and don't waste too much time looking for extra experience.