It is not uncommon for the average working-class professional to change jobs 10 to 15 times during the duration of a career. In some cases, professionals choose to make an overall change by altering the overall path of their current career. Whether it’s the slow fading of interest in your field or the simple need for change in your career, ask yourself these three imperative questions before taking the leap.
First, Have You Done the Necessary Assessment?
What is it about your career that you enjoy? What parts of your career do you dislike? Do you need a break? (Check to see if your company offers sabbaticals. If so, perhaps it’s time to take a temporary pause to assess your career). To make a calculated decision going forward, list out the pros and cons.
Second, What is Your Niche?
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What Skills Do You Possess?
Ask yourself what skills you have obtained over your course of employment. Unlike entry-level employees, the skills you have gained during your career are usually transferable to many other jobs or positions. If you have a desired position in mind, look into the requirements that the company is looking for in a new team member.
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What Skills Do You Need?
In some cases, the position you’d like to fill may require you to go back to school. If this is not an option for you, look into some volunteering opportunities to gain new experience or start with a lower-level position to obtain these new skills.
Third, What Are Your Choices?
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Finding a Job in a Similar Field
If you thoroughly enjoy the industry you are currently working in, you may need to consider the possibility of changing to a different job. Is it the company culture that is leaving you unhappy? Or is it the day to day responsibilities that have prompted the desire for change?
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A Change to a Similar Industry
Sometimes you may find that the career you have undertaken in your industry is starting to feel dated. Assess what skills you have acquired in your previous positions and find the appropriate ones to use towards the new industry or position of choice. For example, if a retail manager wants to make a transition into a Human Resources position, they are still focusing their efforts on employees and involvement in training and hiring of new staff members.
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A Complete 180 Degree Change
In some mid-career cases, a complete change is desired. Whatever the reasons, identify what is making you unhappy and what will fulfill your needs in terms of a new career. Have the necessary conversations to identify your strengths and to clarify the requirements before making the jump. New options can be overwhelming when you are unsure of which direction to take, be sure to avoid this by being prepared when transitioning to a new field.
After taking the time to assess your current role and potential future role, see our tips to help you make a smooth mid-career transition into a new position.