Many employees transition careers during their working years. Common reasons include:
- Boredom
- Stress
- Layoff
- Increased income and benefits
- Greater flexibility
- Better work-life integration
- Opportunities for advancement
Preparing for your career transition provides many benefits:
- Feeling more organized: Do what you can in advance to reduce stress.
- Understand the duties and responsibilities: Know what would be expected of you during your first week in a new industry.
- Leave your current employer on good terms: Complete your projects, say goodbye to colleagues and coworkers, and finish on a positive note.
- Prepare for your new role: Understand your new employer’s policies, processes, and expectations.
Knowing the steps to take and what to consider when transitioning careers helps reduce stress during the process. These tips can help.
Learn the steps to take and what to consider when transitioning careers.
Before Transitioning Careers
Follow these steps before your career transition:
- Identify your transferrable skills: Research the industry to know which transferrable skills are relevant. Examples include communication, collaboration, and decision-making.
- Determine relevant skills: Identify which hard skills are important for your career transition and begin developing them.
- Research the industry: Learn all you can about the industry to ensure it is a good fit for you.
- Consider your life changes: Determine how your career transition might impact your family, friends, and hobbies. For instance, you might need to relocate.
While Transitioning Careers
Follow these steps during your career transition:
- Provide your current employer with at least 2 weeks’ notice before leaving your job.
- Earn any certification, license, or degree needed for your career transition.
- Network with industry professionals for guidance and support as you transition careers.
- Update your resume with your industry knowledge, skills, and qualifications.
- Volunteer, secure an internship, or apply for entry-level jobs in the new industry.
- Prepare to discuss your career transition during interviews.
After Transitioning Careers
Follow these steps after your career transition:
- Continue your education: Engage in conferences, seminars, webinars, and classes for ongoing learning.
- Remain patient: Prepare to spend years learning about your new industry and gaining experience to reach your career goals.
- Focus on your career objectives: You might have transitioned careers for increased income, experience, advancement, or quality of life.
Are You Ready to Transition Careers?
Partner with Techneeds for guidance, support, and advocacy throughout your career transition and beyond. Visit our job board to apply for a role today.
