If you question whether your work is right for you, it’s likely an indication that something is off or you’re not fulfilled. You’re not alone. Less than 4 percent of professionals globally — 13 percent in United States — report that their work fits their interests and needs. While facing a major change can seem daunting, it’s important to pay attention to the signals your mind and body are sending. Consider what the ideal work situation would be for you — both short- and long-term — and choose a life that allows you to thrive. Here are some tips when considering a career change.
Look Inward
Changing careers is a process, and you need a plan to get where you ultimately want to be. The first step involves careful introspection. Only you can define what makes you happy and fulfilled. Evaluate your interests, skills, motivations, beliefs, needs, and wants. Think about what has and has not worked in your career thus far. Ask yourself what aspects of a company, such as mission and culture, are important to you? Are salary, location, and flexibility among your priorities? What are your needs regarding team structure, autonomy, and collaboration? Once you’ve reflected on your skills and professional needs, you’ll have an easier time identifying career opportunities that match your strengths and interests.
Research Your Options
Don’t take the easy route and make a change for the sake of change. If you run from a job or make an emotional decision, you’ll likely find the same issues arise after some time. Instead, identify what creates an amazing situation for you. Armed with a better understanding of yourself and your goal, it’s time to do research the types of jobs that interest you. You can research just about every profession using the Occupational Outlook Handbook found on the U.S Bureau of Labor and Statistics website. Another great way to gather information — and grow your network — is to attend conferences and seminars related to your field. To get relevant information directly from the trenches, reach out to people who are already doing these jobs. Once you’ve gathered the information, determine which careers match the skills, values, and interests you identified during your introspection. Keep in mind that bringing transferrable skills and experience can be helpful.
Connect and Grow
Regardless of which field you choose, you’ll need create a plan to transition into your new career. Use online professional networking platforms like LinkedIn along with your own personal network to establish connections at targeted companies that fit your refined career profile. Consider volunteering on a project or taking an internship to learn any necessary skills while building your resume. Contact veterans in the field and request informational interviews. These informal meetings, paired with continued correspondence, can help get yourself noticed. Employers like to hire people they know personally or through their network. Don’t minimize the importance of making connections in your industry.
Want more excitement and fulfillment in your career? Instead of simply jumping to the next gig, identify what creates an ideal situation and better life for you. Reflect on your skills, beliefs, wants, and needs in order to see yourself through a wider lens — not just how your past positions have defined you. Once you have renewed perspective, you’ll be able to create a career profile and research companies that share your values. Remember, a job that “fits” may not be perfect every day, but it doesn’t have that “is this right for me” question always looming.
ON TOPIC
For seasoned professionals seeking a career change, there are many considerations. In addition to self-reflection about your interests, wants, and needs in a job, you must also evaluate other things, including your current skillset and financial outlook. To make a successful career pivot, particularly if you’re midlife, you must explore various paths and recognize that it might require more education or training. Here are some things to keep in mind as you contemplate a career change:
- Take your time. A major career change doesn’t happen overnight. Be thoughtful and break down the process into manageable steps. Don’t get discouraged when you hit roadblocks.
- Identify your transferable skills from previous roles and how they might apply to a new field.
- Learn new digital skills. If you’re entering a new field, you’ll likely have to jump-start a learning curve. Look for courses, certifications, or other learning opportunities as early as possible.
- Evaluate your financial situation and understand the possible impact on your income and lifestyle if you change careers.
- Get your feet wet by working part time, freelancing, or volunteering in your desired field. You’ll not only gain experience, but you’ll also get a better sense if the new field is what you’re looking for.
- Focus on skills, not age. While you might not check all the desired boxes for a new employer, you bring value with your years of experience.
- Accept help. Again, changing careers is no a major decision. Talk to career coaches as well as financial professionals for guidance and support. They can offer valuable perspectives and tactics to navigate the process.
