Are you thinking about changing your career? If so, you’re not alone.

The global impact of Covid-19 prompted unprecedented numbers of workers to upskill or transition into entirely new careers. According to findcourses.co.uk, around a third of people surveyed want to change jobs in the wake of the pandemic. Somewhat surprisingly, 89% of those surveyed were not currently unhappy but felt that it was time to try something different. Looking for a better work/life balance, financial incentives, reducing stress, and wanting more job security were other reasons for changing careers.

There are many things to consider before transitioning into a new career, and the volume of information can be overwhelming. It is possible that at this early stage, you have only just started researching potential new jobs. Perhaps you are one of the 83% who will need to study more for their new career, or maybe you don’t know how much training you will need. If any of this sounds familiar, don’t worry; you can do plenty to plan for your brand new career!

Here are 6 top tips to help you plan your career switch:

Tip 1: Research potential careers and identify your skill gaps

Browse sites like LinkedIn for companies and job descriptions that interest you. Make a list of skills they require and ask yourself which skills you already have and which you need to acquire. Your list will identify skills gaps that need bridging. 

Maybe you need more advanced communication skills? In that case, taking communications training can grow your career prospects. 

With so many course options available, you will easily find something to fit your time and budget. You can also consider studying abroad. There are many advantages of taking courses where you are based or abroad, such as strengthening your resume and increasing your potential as a desirable candidate.

Tip 2: Assess the future of your chosen career

When you are investing time, money and effort into finding a new career, it is wise to consider the future of your desired job. For example, finding out if your new occupation will survive automation and knowing how your salary compares to others can help you make important decisions before transitioning.

Tip 3: Update your profiles

Now that you have set your career path, you should make sure your resume includes all of your recent training and highlights specific skillsets. In addition, a strong LinkedIn profile is essential to get you noticed and help you find your dream job, so remember to update your profile on your job search sites and rewrite your bio to fit the new career.

Tip 4: Approach HR departments

Don’t be afraid to contact individual HR departments and ask for advice on being considered for a future role in their company. Speaking directly with the HR manager allows you to showcase your transferable skills and could lead to an internship, junior position, or other roles that could be a stepping stone to the one you want.

Tip 5: Increase your network

You’ve done all the hard work, so now it’s time to build your network. You never know where a job lead might come from, so tell your friends, family, and neighbors about your career change plans and ask your contacts to share your profile in their networks. Join relevant groups and build a presence by sharing valuable articles and responding to conversations.

Tip 6: Stay positive

Changing careers can be overwhelming at first, but don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. With a positive mindset, gaining the right skills through training, building your profile, and networking effectively, you will set yourself up for success in your new career.

Author Bio

Elaine Thatcher is a Digital Content Writer at findcourses.com. She brings extensive knowledge to her writing from an 18-year career as an educator in British international schools and believes learning is a lifelong goal. Originally from the UK, Elaine has lived in major Asian and European cities and currently resides in Sweden.

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