How To Navigate Career Change
This is a writing sample from Scripted writer John Becker
Changing careers is not easy. The uncertainty of change fills most people with dread. Trying something major that you’re unfamiliar with does not inspire confidence.
You’ve come to the right place if you have no idea how to go about it. We’ll highlight the steps you can take to switch to the career of your dreams in this blog.
Assess Your Skills
Write down what you did in your past jobs. Look at the skills that allowed you to do those jobs well. Those are skills you can take with you to a new job.
Get opinions from co-workers or friends. They might notice skills you did not even realize you had.
Or use internet tools instead. There are free web skill tests that will tell you what you’re good at.
Research Your New Career Change
Look for jobs that you’re interested in. Learn what qualifications they require.
Read blogs to familiarize yourself with the industry. Listen to relevant podcasts. Watching videos also helps. Some of the content may include information from others who transitioned into the role.
Identify individuals in the role you wish to get into and query how they got started.
Know what you need before you proceed. Some employers want short courses, while others will ask for a full degree.
Seek Help
Ask experts you know about your plan to change careers. They may offer advice on the best way to go about it. Some may even spot better options you missed.
Consult career coaches related to your intended career. They are experts in the field, so they are best placed to advise you on what to do next.
Visit job centers near you. They may have tools and mentors to help streamline your choices.
Join online groups. These communities are great for learning from people working in the industry.
Be Patient
Career change takes time. Don’t expect to see results right away.
You will encounter slow days. Others may feel like you’re moving backwards. Keep working toward your target.
Supplement what you have learned from your mistakes with what you learned from experts. Use this to inform your next moves.
Final Word
Changing careers is scary for most people. But you should take it positively as it offers the best chance to enjoy your career.
Ensure your skills match your new career. This increases your chances for a successful switch.
Written by:
John is a gifted writer and marketer.
A Connecticut native, John studied at UPenn, Middlebury, and UMass, and has worked in both corporate and nonprofit settings. Every day, he helps businesses improve how they sell, market, and communicate. He writes about finance, sales, investments & stocks, technology, psychology, marketing, SEO, leadership among other finance and tech-related topics.
John is passionate about sustainability, education, design, and teamwork. He enjoys building furniture, baking, swimming, and traveling with his family.
