What do you do if you're a designer facing a career transition and need guidance?

1 Assess Skills

As a designer, your first step in a career transition should be to conduct a thorough self-assessment. Look at your current skills critically and determine which are transferable to your new role. For example, your eye for aesthetics and user-centric approach can be valuable in various design disciplines. Identify any gaps in your knowledge and consider how you might fill them, whether through online courses, workshops, or self-study. Remember, your existing design skills are a strong foundation; it's about building upon them to adapt to your new career path.

2 Seek Mentorship

Mentorship is invaluable when navigating a career transition. Seek out a mentor who has successfully made a similar move or who holds a position you aspire to. A mentor can provide insights that are not readily available through other channels, such as personal experiences, industry-specific knowledge, and networking opportunities. They can also offer moral support and guidance on avoiding common pitfalls. Remember, mentorship is a two-way street; be prepared to engage actively and reciprocate with your insights when possible.

3 Update Portfolio

Your portfolio is a visual testament to your skills and adaptability as a designer. When facing a career transition, it's crucial to update your portfolio to reflect the breadth of your capabilities and the direction you're heading. Highlight projects that showcase transferable skills and any new competencies you've acquired. Tailor your portfolio to speak to potential employers or clients in your new field, demonstrating that you're more than capable of meeting new challenges.

4 Network Actively

Networking is a powerful tool for any professional, but it's particularly crucial during a career transition. Actively engage with the design community through social media, design forums, and industry events. Connecting with other professionals can lead to opportunities, partnerships, or simply valuable advice. Don't hesitate to share your journey; you never know who might offer the insight or opportunity that propels your career forward.

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?