How to change your career successfully in the modern job market
Olivia Attwood
Certified Professional Resume Writer ● Career Coach ● Executive Resume Writer ● MBA, BEng, CPRW, CPCC
Changing a career is always a big decision, no matter where you are on the career ladder. Despite the industry you are trying to get into, it is a challenging journey for all job seekers. There’s a lot for you to do, from researching rewarding new careers to revamping your job search materials to highlight your transferable skills. Today, we will discuss some of those important steps you have to take when changing careers in the modern job market.
1. Understand your motivation
What compels you to change your career? Professionals change their careers for various reasons, from seeking more passion in what they do, to better pay, to more flexibility with their schedules. Some professionals change their careers in search of opportunities that help them achieve better work-life balance. It’s important to take the time to do a self-evaluation and identify your motives thoroughly before you proceed with the subsequent steps.
2. Research your options
Now that you have a clear idea what you want out of your new career, it is time for you to invest time into researching the many potential career paths available for you. Look for industries and sectors that align with your career values and what you seek. You should also be on the lookout for opportunities that align with your strengths, aptitude, and interests if you want to end up in a rewarding career.
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3. Identify the skills gap
There will be an inevitable skills gap when you want to switch out of your career. Even if you have decades of experience in your current career, you may end up being a struggling newbie in the new field. This is common for a majority of career changers. Therefore, it helps to identify the skills gap upfront and upskill yourself while you are hunting for the perfect opportunity. One way to identify the skills you must develop to be successful in your new career is to read and review job descriptions for your target job title in the new industry. You will notice how employers demand common skills and experiences from job seekers.
4. Networking is essential
If you want to be successful in an entirely new career, you must invest time and effort into networking. Building and expanding your professional network in the new career is essential if you want to establish yourself firmly in the new field. So, while you search for opportunities, take the time to connect with professionals from your target industry and field through LinkedIn. You can arrange informational interviews with them to gain better insight as well,
5. Prep your documents
Every job search involves a set of professional documents, primarily a strong resume and cover letter. Your resume and cover letter need a complete revamp when you apply for positions within a new industry. Focus your new resume and cover letter on the transferable skills that are essential for the new career. Get the help of a professional resume writer to transform your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile into a narrative suitable for the new industry.