Written By: Chris Trueman
IELTS Prep Instructor | Aston American University
In today’s modern society where globalization and technology changes are having an ever-greater influence in our lives, having the ability to change careers is becoming ever more important. I have personally changed careers several times in my life, and so I believe that I am qualified to give advice on this subject. Below, I have outlined six steps to achieving a successful career change.
1. Evaluate what you would really like to do with your life.
What enthuses you? What don’t you like doing? What is important to you? What are you really good at doing? Spend some time to answer these sorts of questions that will enable you to make the correct choices relevant to you. After you have made your choice then research your chosen career, which matches your interests.
2. Assess your current skills.
If necessary, you might need to revise, renew and widen your skill levels. If you are considering obtaining certification in your chosen career, check out whether the certification is a recognized qualification in your particular discipline.
3. Don’t be afraid to ask for relevant help and advice from family and friends.
Quite often, people will enjoy giving advice and will be willing to help you find an opening, which you can develop. Maybe you can develop your circle of acquaintances by contacting old college friends.
4. Get experience.
Remember that you will be starting a new career from the ground up, so you need to get experience. Consider doing voluntary work, night or weekend shifts, working in your chosen new discipline – just to get valuable experience.
5. Be prepared mentally.
Remember that you should be prepared to change careers more than once before you achieve your desired level of success. I have personally changed careers four times before realizing that teaching offered me opportunities and rewards, which were previously missing in my life.
6. Take time out to improve your job-hunting expertise.
(I.e., CV and cover letter writing, interview/negotiation techniques.) If necessary, get professional help and advice in these areas as they are a very important part of finding a new job. You must also be adaptable with aspects such as a starting salary and location. You must also expect to experience unexpected setbacks.
Ultimately, you have to believe that you can make the change, and others will then believe it too!
