What To Do When You're Considering A Career Change

There are many reasons why you may be thinking about a new career. It might be that you’re unhappy at your current job or maybe you’re a stay-at-home mom looking to reenter the workforce.

No matter the reason, you’ll want to prepare for this transition since it’s a big one. Here’s what to do when you’re considering a career change so that you can give yourself the best chance at finding a rewarding path that will be long-lasting. The more work and effort you put in now the better chance you have at finding success in your professional life long-term.

Update Your Resume

It’s a good idea to start by updating your resume when you’re considering a career change. This way you’ll be prepared to share it and give it to different people or companies who may be interested in your skills. It’s important that you keep it updated so that you can give it to recruiters and so that you have a solid understanding of your accomplishments. Not only that but it allows you to act fast on any new opportunities that might come your way quickly.

Research Options

If you’re considering a career change then you must have a plan for where you’re heading and what you want to do with your life. It’s a good time to decide if you want to change industries as well. Research all your different options and look into anything from being your own boss through business opportunities with estate sales to going back to school to working for a large corporation that is hiring. You should gather as much information as you can on the career paths that interest you the most so you can start narrowing it down and begin to move forward in a direction that will best suit you.

Get in Touch with Your Network

Now is also a good time to get in touch with your network and build it up and reconnect with old contacts face-to-face. When you’re considering a career change, you should be ready to use these people to help you get your foot in the door or tell you about new opportunities. Use your network as you try to navigate your situation and figure out what you want to do next. You never know who could be of assistance to you so continue to keep the conversations going as you explore your options. It might also be a good time to identify a mentor who can offer guidance during this uncertain time.

Identify Your Strengths & Develop New Skills

If you want to give yourself the best chance at finding a new job and a different career path then you need to be marketable and an attractive candidate. You can ensure this holds true by identifying and knowing your strengths and developing your skills in areas where you may be falling short. It may require that you take online courses or that you go back to school so be ready to invest in yourself as you prepare for a career change.