New year, new career. Preparing for a career change means taking time to consider your interests, qualifications, and professional goals. You can start a productive career search based on what you discover about yourself. Understanding how to switch careers can make it easier to find a role you’re passionate about and improve your work life.
How do you know when it’s time for a new career path? There are a few ways to know if you’re ready for a new career path, which includes monitoring your emotions. For example, if you notice you’re unhappy and stressed before, during and after work, it might be beneficial to consider getting a new career. Here are a few other signs you’re ready for a change in your professional life:
- You think your work doesn’t matter.
- You feel you’re no longer learning or growing in your position.
- You notice your values no longer align with the company.
- You think another career may offer you more fulfillment.
- You feel undervalued in your role.
- You notice you’re constantly bored, stressed or have other negative emotions throughout your workday.
- You watch the clock constantly.
How to start a new career in 6 steps:
- 1. Focus on your interests first: Start with your general interests first. Make a list of your hobbies and the aspects of your current job you enjoy. You can narrow your focus from this list by looking for careers and jobs that match those subjects.
- 2. List your background and work experiences: After you itemized your interests, create another list highlighting your previous employers, job titles, college degrees or certifications. This can help you draft your resume and evaluate which types of roles you qualify for and where you can benefit from additional training or education.
- 3. Compare your interests and experiences with career options: Next, consider the careers that closely match your values, skills and passions. Create a list of careers you think you may enjoy. From this list, look for jobs that match your qualifications and identify roles you see yourself enjoying.
- 4. Reduce your options to two or three careers: Once you create a list of potential career titles, consider the careers that match your values, skills and passions. Then you can reduce your list to two or three careers. This list allows you to refine your search and make it easier to look for specific roles you find interesting.
- 5. Complete research about these careers: After narrowing down your career search, research more details about them. Review the average salary expectations, education requirements and general work environments. Ensure these factors align with your values and skills to find a job you can enjoy.
- 6. Apply for jobs within your desired field: After in-depth research about different job titles, you can apply for openings on job search websites or company job pages. Tailor your resume and cover letter to each company for productive results. Ensure your applications accurately reflect your background and experience to show your value as a candidate.
There are many reasons to start a new career, each with its own advantages including new challenges, a fresh sense of purpose, and a healthy work environment. A new career offers fresh challenges to encourage education and expand your knowledge and can help you establish a sense of purpose in your work again.
Starting a new career can be stressful and exciting. Preparation when starting a new career path gives you the highest chance of succeeding.
Read the full article: Starting a New Career: Steps, Benefits and Factors | Indeed.com