You're looking to make a career change. What's the best way to network and find new opportunities?

2 Update your profile

Once you have a target in mind, you need to update your online and offline profile to reflect your new direction and goals. This means revising your resume, cover letter, portfolio, website, social media accounts, and any other platforms where you showcase your work and skills. You want to highlight your transferable skills, relevant achievements, and learning experiences that demonstrate your suitability and interest in your new career. You also want to use keywords and phrases that match the language and expectations of your target audience. For example, if you're moving from marketing to data science, you may want to emphasize your analytical, problem-solving, and technical skills, and use terms like Python, SQL, or machine learning.

3 Leverage your existing network

One of the easiest ways to start networking for a career change is to tap into your existing network of contacts. These can be former or current colleagues, managers, mentors, clients, vendors, classmates, alumni, friends, family, or anyone else who knows you and your work. You can reach out to them via email, phone, or social media, and ask them for advice, referrals, introductions, or feedback. You can also ask them to keep an eye out for any opportunities that might suit you, or to share your profile with their own network. Be respectful, genuine, and grateful when you contact them, and explain why you're making a career change and what you're looking for. Don't be afraid to ask for help, but also offer to help them in return if you can.

4 Expand your network

Besides your existing network, you also want to expand your network and connect with new people who can offer you different perspectives, insights, and opportunities. You can do this by attending online or offline events, workshops, webinars, or courses related to your new career. You can also join online communities, forums, groups, or platforms where you can interact with other professionals, experts, or enthusiasts in your field of interest. You can also follow, comment, or share content from influential or reputable sources in your industry. When you engage with new people, be polite, curious, and respectful. Introduce yourself briefly, and explain why you're interested in their work or field. Ask open-ended questions, listen actively, and show appreciation. Don't be pushy or spammy, and don't ask for favors right away. Instead, focus on building rapport and trust, and follow up with them later.