In the past many, people would choose a career and stay with it until retirement. This is known as a Career Ladder approach. These days, however, it is much more common to change direction one or more times: more of a 'Crazy Paving' approach.
You may have always wanted to make the move, or change your mind due to dissatisfaction, redundancy, following a dream, or a change of circumstances. Some careers are more flexible to accommodate caring responsibilities or health issues and others have greater opportunities for advancement, salary increase, and feeling appreciated.
Whatever your reason, it will increase your chance of success if you think it through, do your research and have a strategic approach. Here's 10 top tips to consider when making the next move in your career:
- Think about your current situation – what is working for you and what are the issues? Which skills, personal qualities and values do you have and how do they relate to different career options? What do you love doing?
- Brainstorm careers – could you just change roles, or do you need to change sectors? Would you have to start again at the bottom? If so, what effect would that have on your finances and network? Consider potential jobs and industries to make a shortlist, asking for help from a Careers Consultant or from others in your professional network.
- Research potential job matches – research online or conduct informational interviews with people in that field using tools such as LinkedIn. Find out what the entry requirements are and how most people start.
- Choose one career – ask for decision-making help from a Careers Consultant if needed.
- Make an action plan - identify milestones towards achieving your goal using a SMART action plan (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, time-bound). These may involve building on your qualifications, experience, or skills.
- Take action – see if you can gain relevant qualifications, experience, and skills in your current role before you leave, or take action in your spare time.
- Try before you buy – by seeking out opportunities to job shadow, volunteer, or intern.
- Consider your image – having a professional personal brand on social media and your CV and cover letter will help you to convey a consistent, clear message which will articulate how your skills and experiences are transferable between different jobs or industries.
- Look for opportunities – see what is being advertised and what the requirements are, even if you are not ready quite yet. Select contacts in your network to reach out to who you trust to put in a good word, keep you aware of opportunities, and provide support.
- Keep track – note your progress towards your goals, making amendments if necessary. It may take some time, effort, and money, but focusing on the end goal will help to keep you motivated.