Deciding to change careers is a big decision, especially if you have spent years in the same industry or position. But, if you’re unhappy at your job or want to seek opportunities that offer more purpose or money, it’s a step worth taking.
If you are thinking about making a big change in your career and life, follow these steps to guide the process, ease the transition, and find the best new career for you.
#1) Conduct a personal analysis.
If you want to change careers, start by taking a deep look at who you are and what you want to do. Ask questions about what you want and like. Identify the skills and strengths you have, and take time to focus on what your ideal work-life looks like.
A career coach can help you through this process. They may even encourage you to take a personality or skills test to answer questions such as:
- What are your top skills?
- What type of work do you like to do?
- What type of work do you NOT like to do?
- What type of work are you suited to do?
- What type of work schedule do you want to have?
- How much money do you want to be able to make?
#2) Research growing industries.
Once you research yourself, it’s time to research the job market.
Look at job trends and lists of growing industries to determine where there are opportunities in the workforce. It will be easier to change careers and move in a new direction if you go into an industry that is flourishing, rather than diminishing.
Research growing industries and work with a career support center like CareerSource Central Florida to identify opportunities. These centers can help you identify industries with a lot of growth, such as:
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Construction
- Healthcare
- Information Technology & Finance
- Trade & Logistics
#3) Get additional training.
Once you identify the type of work you’re interested in and the type of work that has a lot of potential, consider if your skills and experience align with the new career path. If they don’t, look into getting additional training so that you have the skills and experience you need.
Advancing your skills and seeking additional training can open up a world of new job opportunities for you.
You don’t necessarily need to get a traditional education or pay expensive fees to gain additional training. Through career centers like CareerSource Central Florida, you may be able to secure internships, apprenticeships, and training scholarships that help you elevate your skills and get ready for a position in a new field.
#4) Update your resume.
If you want to change careers, you’re going to need to do some work on your resume. If you have been in the same industry for years, your resume is probably positioned to help you get work in that field. You will need to revise your resume to highlight your skills and experience as it relates to your new industry.
Add any new experience or skills, and reposition existing skills and experience to show how they are applicable to the new job you’re seeking. For more tips on updating and improving your resume, check out our guide, 7 Tips to Make Your Resume Stand Out (And Get the Job).
#5) Update your LinkedIn profile.
Just as you need to update your resume when you change careers, you will also need to update your LinkedIn profile. Make similar changes such as adding new skills and updating past experience to match criteria for new positions.
Also, update your about section to explain why you’re making a career change. Introduce why you are drawn to the new industry, what you have done to prepare to enter the new field, and how your past experience translates well to the new type of work.
Get step-by-step directions for updating your LinkedIn profile (and attracting the attention of hiring managers and recruiters) in our guide, How to Update Your LinkedIn Profile When Job Seeking.
#6) Reach out to your network.
Your network can be a great place to find leads for new jobs and work placements. But, your network can’t connect you with opportunities if they don’t know you’re seeking them.
When you’re ready to change careers, make sure the people in your network know about your shift. Consider sharing the news with your family and friends, and update your social profiles (if you’re ready to publicly share the news and let current employers know about the change).
Successfully Change Careers with the Right Support
Deciding to change careers is a big decision. It might seem scary and intimidating, but it’s a process that can lead to big rewards. It can lead you to more fulfilling and higher-paying work that can support the goals you have for you and your family.
If you are thinking about changing careers, don’t keep putting it off. The sooner you start, the sooner you can start reaping the rewards of a new career path.
Start taking these steps to change careers today — and get help with the process.
Talk to CareerSource Central Florida today to see how we can help you with your career change. We offer career services for job seekers that include career coaching and job training. We also offer virtual services so you can get assistance right from your home. Take the first step toward your career change. Request your appointment today.
