CHANGING CAREER:
WHERE DO YOU START?

Have you been thinking "I need a change!".

If you've been thinking of changing careers, and find it overwhelming especially when it is in a completely different field. Here are a few steps to follow to help you with your career transition.

1. Know what's important

Before doing something drastic, let's figure out what is important to you. What are your priorities in life? How aligned are you with your priorities? Write down what's important to you and rank them by importance, then write down how satisfied you are of each. If the satisfaction of the higher priorities are not being met, you might have a harder time with your career transition. Try to fulfill the needs of your higher priorities.

2. Informational interview

When changing fields or professions, it is best to talk to someone who is already in the field. You can find out the challenges and benefits only those who are in it would know. Ask questions from a curious place, and be genuine. A lot of times, your character is what others remember. Not what you have to offer. Remember, your interviewee is now your contact and would be a great resource for you in the future. Make sure to leave a good impression. At the end of the interview, ask if they can refer you to someone else who you can interview.

3. Networking

Networking might seem jarring. It doesn't feel natural when you send a message to someone you haven't spoken to in years. It feels that way because you aren't networking on a regular basis. I highly recommend everyone to network on a regular basis even if you are not looking for a job. This puts you top of mind with your network and they already know what you're looking for when you are ready to find a new job. However, even if you haven't done regular networking, it isn't as bad you make it out to be. Checking out your network's Linkedin page and reaching out for a quick catch up is usually met with a warm welcome. And those who do not respond, don't take it personally. There are many reasons why they don't respond.

4. Strengths & Weaknesses

Many people get intimidated by changing fields. In order for you to be successful, you don't need to know everything about the new industry. You will learn along the way like you normally would if you're just changing companies. There will always be some learning curve and that will be accounted for in any new jobs. You need to trust that you're capable and resourceful enough to get yourself through that learning curve. Focus on your strengths and see how you can utilize it in your new career. Know your weaknesses so you can figure out how you can overcome these weaknesses.

5. Stay open-minded

Stay open-minded for opportunities. Sometimes we think we know what we want to do and we're fixated on achieving it. Don't dismiss possible opportunities that might not immediately fit what you want. Keep an open-mind and explore the opportunities before saying no.

6. Elevator Pitch

Have your 30 second elevator pitch ready for when you meet new people and for your networking sessions. This will give others a clear idea of who you are and what you're looking for.

• What got you to where you are now
• Education/Past jobs
• Achievements

• What are you currently looking for
• Why do you want to do it

• What do you want to do in the future
• How is the current role you're seeking going to help you get there
•  

Let’s set up a chat and explore your options. Schedule a call now.

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