Making a Career Change? Watch Out for These 3 Traps

Making a career change can feel like standing at the edge of a cliff, staring into the unknown.

I felt that way when making the transition from a corporate sales job into solopreneurship.

There’s excitement, but there’s also fear. There's optimism but there's also doubt. Optimism, pessimism and craziness all mixed into one,

It’s no wonder so many professionals get stuck in the process or end up in a situation no better than the one they left.

If you’re in the middle of a career shift, it’s important to understand some of the common traps that can derail your progress.

The good news?

You don’t have to make the same mistakes that others do.

Over the last 5 years I’ve coached over 140 clients transition into new career paths,

Avoiding these pitfalls helped them transition successfully.

And they can help you too.

Make sure your next move isn’t just about getting a job but getting ahead.

Let’s talk about the 3 traps to avoid as you transition to a new career.

Trap #1: Jumping at the First Opportunity

You’ve made the decision to change careers.

The unknown looms large, and the instinct to grab the first job that comes along can be overwhelming. But this knee-jerk reaction often leads to landing in another role that doesn’t make you happy.

Here’s what usually happens

1. You’re fed up with your current situation and the pressure to find something else kicks in.
2. An offer comes along, and it feels like a lifesaver. So you take it.
3. Fast forward 6 months, and you’re unhappy again. The role wasn’t a good fit.

And you’re right back where you started.

Why This Happens

Most people think that a new environment will solve all of their career problems.

They think that all they need is a new job. Any job. But that approach is way too simplistic.

Because change for change’s sake doesn’t accomplish anything.

Some more reasons why professionals jump at the first opportunity include:

• Making an emotional decision rather than a practical one.
• They haven’t thought about why they are unhappy.
• Not considering what needs to change about themselves. (This one hits home)

When this happens, it sets them up for more unhappiness and more job hopping.

How to Avoid This Trap

Take your time.

You might feel like the clock is ticking but you have more time than you think.

Give yourself permission to be selective.

Here are 3 questions that you can ask yourself:

• “How can I prevent myself being in his position again?”
• “Does this opportunity align with my long-term plan?”
• “Will it allow me to grow in the direction I want?”

Instead of looking for any exit, look for the right one. Hold out for a role that offers both security AND career progression.

The right opportunity is out there if you are willing to look for it.

Trap #2: Over-Focusing on Salary

A big salary bump sucks you in straight away.

You can’t help but think about how you would spend that money and how much it would improve your life. That vision forms in your mind almost instantly.

But chasing the highest offer without considering the overall fit might lead you back to square one.

Why We Prioritise Money

We all want to earn more, and yes, financial stability is important.

But is it worth the extra stress that might come your way? If you ignore what you really want or what’s truly missing, the chances are you will be miserable again.

Yes, we all want to earn more and financial stability is important.

But at what cost?

A higher paycheque won’t make up for feeling disconnected from your work, or being in an environment that doesn’t suit you. Think of the job that paid you well but left you drained at the end of each day. It’s not just about the numbers.

How To Avoid This Trap

Focus on finding a role that brings more than just a pay rise.

Look at the full picture:

• What does the work environment look like?
• What’s the culture like?
• Will you have the chance to find meaning in your work?

Think beyond the short-term financial gain to the long-term fulfilment you’ll get from a job that truly fits you.

Trap #3: Undervaluing Yourself

Many professionals make the mistake of thinking they’re starting from scratch in a career transition.

You’re not.

You’re bringing years of experience, knowledge, and skills that can apply to your new field. You just need to recognise them.

And once you do, talk about them.

Companies value these experiences. They just need to be framed properly in your CV, LinkedIn profile and during interviews.

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Why You Are Your Own Worst Critic

People often establish their own self-worth by comparing themselves to others.

They see other colleagues or friends with more experience, shiny accolades and a fancy LinkedIn profile thinking that they are low-value compared to others.

They also think that if they are pivoting into a totally new career path, their value is zero. Compared to more experienced professionals, they don’t deserve a senior role or a high salary.

It might lead to a new job, but it won’t be long before regret kicks in.

Especially when you know how much other people are earning.

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How To Avoid This Trap.

Take stock of what you already bring to the table.

Write down everything that you’re good at. Think about what those skills have helped you to achieve. Write those down too. ?

Then, think about how they apply to the industry you’re moving into. Tailor your CV to emphasise these transferable skills and be ready to talk about them in interviews.

Remember that you’re not starting from scratch. You’re building on your foundation.

Here’s an example:

Say you’re moving from marketing to project management. You’ve probably been managing marketing campaigns, working to deadlines, and coordinating teams for years. These are project management skills. Your job is to highlight them in a way that shows how they’ll be valuable in a different context.

Making the Right Move

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the uncertainties of a career change.

And it’s even easier to fall into these common traps, which can stall your progress or send you down the wrong path entirely. But with some thoughtful planning and the right mindset, you can avoid these pitfalls and set yourself up for a career that makes you happy and excited to wake up every morning.

Instead of rushing into the first opportunity, take your time.

Focus on finding a role that aligns with your long-term goals, not just your immediate need for a salary bump. And don’t forget to value your career so far. Everything is more relevant than you think.

Finally, give yourself some grace.

Transitions are tough, but action builds belief. Start small, stack up those wins, and remember: the right opportunity is out there. It just requires patience and persistence.

If you’re navigating a career shift right now or thinking about making one, reach out.

I’m here to help you make sure your next move isn’t just a quick fix. It’s a step toward the career you’ve always wanted.

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