Are you successful in your chosen career, but wondering if you actually chose the RIGHT career? Did you spend years years in school, land a job in your field, work hard for promotions, and climb that proverbial corporate ladder only to find that it is up against the wrong wall? Do you now feel you can’t or shouldn’t change careers, but know in your heart that you’d love to make that move?
More and more professionals are discovering that they are no longer satisfied in their chosen professions. In fact, it is not uncommon these days to change careers two or more times in our working lives. It is not a decision to be made lightly. It is one that requires reflection and preparation.
Here are my 5 Top Tips to help you consider making that change
1. Identify your transferable skills. We all have transferable skills. Transferable skills are those versatile skills that you can apply in a variety of different roles and capacities. Your technical skills may be specialized, such as employment law or estate planning. However, you will have a whole range of abilities and life experiences that can transfer into the workplace. So explore these skills and think of tasks or experiences that you enjoyed and dealt with successfully. What were the skills you used? These could include listening, establishing rapport with a client, communication, teamwork, critical thinking, problem resolution, meeting deadlines, managing a team, etc.
2. Consider who you want to be. It is not just about what you want to do. WHO do you want to be, and how can you best express that? Think about your values and the type of work that resonates and bring you fulfillment.
3. Face your barriers. What is stopping you from making a change? Is it fear of the unknown, or financial concerns? If so, what could you do to reduce those risks? Or, perhaps you feel bound to your chosen profession. You may be thinking that because you studied for your degree, then spent a number of years working in your field and becoming experienced, you shouldn’t leave and start over. Is that true? Is holding on to those fears and barriers worth more than pursuing a change that may be more fulfilling?
4. Consider how you want to feel. How are you feeling right now in your current job? Is your work satisfying and fulfilling? If not, how would it feel if you knew what work would be ideal for you, if you were doing meaningful work that combined your talents, skills and aspirations?
5. Be open to possibilities. What would you love to do? For the next few weeks, do some research and make a note of what appeals to you. Then, review your notes and see if there is a theme that strongly attracts you. Research it more and see where it leads!
