How to manage a successful career pivot

Career pivots are becoming more common - whether you’re seeking greater job satisfaction, trying to align your work with personal values, or responding to changes in industry demand, shifting your career direction can feel both exciting and overwhelming. A career pivot offers the chance to explore new challenges and possibilities, but it requires careful planning and the right approach to make the transition smooth and successful.

Here are the essential steps to manage a career pivot effectively, ensuring that you’re prepared to make the leap and thrive in your new field.

1. Clarify your reasons for pivoting

Before making any major career shift, it’s crucial to understand why you want to pivot. Are you seeking more fulfilment in your work, better opportunities, or perhaps a new industry altogether? Taking time to reflect on your motivations will help you align your career change with your long-term goals. By understanding the driving factors behind your decision, you’ll have a clearer idea of the type of role or industry that will best meet your needs.

Knowing your "why" also gives you the confidence to move forward and ensures that your new direction is both intentional and fulfilling.

2. Identify your transferable skills

A successful career pivot often depends on identifying and leveraging the skills you already have. Many skills - such as communication, leadership, project management, and problem-solving - are transferable across different industries and roles. The key is to find ways to apply those skills in your new career path.

Take inventory of your existing skills and consider how they can be valuable in your target industry. For example, if you’re transitioning from customer service to human resources, your experience in conflict resolution and people management will be highly relevant. Understanding how your experience can be an asset in a new context will make you a more attractive candidate during your job search.

3. Build the new skills you need

While your transferable skills will form a strong foundation, most career pivots also require learning new skills to succeed in your target role. Research the skills in demand within your desired field and start working on filling any gaps you might have. This can be done through online courses, workshops, certifications, or hands-on experience.

For instance, if you’re moving into a tech-related role, learning programming languages or data analysis might be essential. For more creative fields, mastering tools like graphic design software could be necessary. The key is to be proactive and begin your upskilling journey as soon as possible.

4. Expand your network in the new field

A strong professional network is a valuable resource during any career pivot. Building relationships in your target industry can provide guidance, support, and even new job opportunities. Start by attending industry events (virtual or in-person), joining professional groups, and connecting with people on LinkedIn who are working in your desired field.

Networking not only helps you learn more about the industry but also allows you to make valuable connections that could lead to job opportunities. Reach out for informational interviews, ask for advice, and make an effort to expand your network as much as possible. The insights you gain from others can provide a clearer path to your career goals.

5. Update your CV and online presence

When pivoting careers, your CV and online profiles should reflect your new direction. Tailor your CV to highlight the transferable skills and relevant achievements that align with the role you’re pursuing. This might mean rethinking how you describe your past work experience or even creating a new portfolio to showcase your skills.

Make sure your LinkedIn profile is also up to date, focusing on the field you’re transitioning into. Engage with content in your target industry, follow thought leaders, and share your own insights or experiences. This helps position you as someone serious about the career pivot and builds credibility with potential employers.

6. Gain practical experience

One of the best ways to strengthen your case for a career pivot is by gaining practical experience in your new field. This could involve taking on freelance projects, volunteering, or working on side projects that allow you to apply new skills and demonstrate your capabilities. Even small projects can show potential employers that you’re dedicated to your new career and have already started building a track record.

Practical experience also builds your confidence, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned in a real-world context. Whether through short-term contracts or personal projects, gaining hands-on experience will help solidify your skill set and increase your employability.

7. Stay patient and persistent

A career pivot is rarely an overnight success. It’s important to stay patient and keep working towards your goal, even when things don’t go according to plan. There may be setbacks along the way, such as rejections or unexpected challenges, but persistence is key.

Set realistic goals for your job search and keep track of your progress. Celebrate small victories, such as completing a course or landing an informational interview. Staying focused on your long-term vision will help you maintain motivation and keep moving forward.

8. Leverage the Career Ready Plan for guidance

Pivoting to a new career can feel overwhelming, but having a structured plan in place can make all the difference. Alison’s free Career Ready Plan is designed to help you navigate this transition with confidence. This comprehensive tool provides a step-by-step guide to setting career goals, identifying the skills you need, and building a roadmap for success.

Our Career Ready Plan allows you to assess your strengths, explore new opportunities, and create a tailored plan that aligns with your goals. Whether in the early stages of considering a pivot or ready to make a change, the Career Ready Plan offers the structure and support you need to make informed decisions and take action.

A career pivot is a bold move that can lead to personal and professional growth, but it requires careful planning and persistence. By clarifying your motivations, identifying your transferable skills, gaining new knowledge, and building a supportive network, you can navigate this transition successfully.

With the right strategy - and the help of free tools like our Career Ready Plan - you can turn your career pivot into a fulfilling and rewarding opportunity for long-term success.