Start now and prepare for the basics before you take the jump and change careers.
Changing careers is one of the most difficult decision you’ll make throughout your life. However, while it may be difficult and frightening, a career change may also be one the best choices you make for yourself and family, such as working closer to home, creative freedom, work independence, flexible working hours, and more.
Finding your dream job isn’t a simple task and not a decision you can make overnight. It’s a life decision that you'll need to prepare for in more ways than one. Furthermore, it takes time to be done effectively. With all of that said, if this is something you’re planning to do in the near future, here’s five tips to help you successfully transition careers:
Tip 1: Start saving today
Although a new career may eventually come with a higher salary, changing careers can put immense financial strain on you and your family. While you transition between careers you may find yourself unemployed. Additionally, if you’re changing industries, without a lot of experience, your new gig may also come with a pay cut. This is normal, since you no longer have the same expertise or seniority as you do in your current role and industry.
Keeping this in mind, it's important that you make sure you have adequate savings in your bank account when preparing to change career path. Here are a few things to think about:
- Look at your regular monthly expenses.
- Are you just getting by, or comfortably paying your bills?
- Are you the breadwinner in your family?
- A good number to work with is six months of your regular expenses.
- Start saving what you can, and make it a part of your current budget
Tip 2: Brainstorm your perfect job
A career change isn’t a decision that should be taken lightly. You want to make sure you’re going into a career or role that you enjoy, has room for growth and is a long-term solution.
Make a list of the things you enjoy about your current role, the things you can live with and the things you need to change. From there, do some research on different careers that peak your interest.
Tip 3: Evaluate your skills
A good thing to always be aware of (whether you're looking to change careers or not) is your strengths and opportunities. Knowing your strengths is vital, as this allows you to evaluate your suitability for certain roles. However, equally - or perhaps more - important is to be aware of your opportunities to grow. This will also help you narrow down which careers may be the right fit for you.
Tip 4: Seek help
Never be too proud to seek help when you need it. Use your professional network to get introduced to people in your new industry. On a personal level, share with your family and close friends of your plans. They'll be able to offer support and advice when you need it throughout your transition.
Career counselling agencies are also another support option to consider. Many of these agencies are free of charge and offer services like resume building, personal growth workshops and can help you find a job that's right for you.
Tip 5: Make a departure plan
Once you feel comfortable and have made your decision to leave your job, set the date and give your employer notice. Giving notice is critical as it helps to ensure that no bridges are burned in the process.
Meet with your boss and discuss your current projects, and make a list of things you'd like to get done before you leave. This will make it easier on your current employer, as they'll need to hire for your replacement.
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Now that you've got all of your planning done, start putting your career change into action. Download WSI's Franchise Report and learn more about how to become a WSI Digital Marketing Consultant.
