Need a career change? Follow these steps

By Citizens Staff

We all identify with our jobs, whether we’ll admit it or not. For instance, whenever we meet someone new, we’ll introduce ourselves as an engineer … a nurse … a restaurant manager … a car salesman.

That’s why being stuck in an unfulfilling career takes such a toll. It goes beyond not liking your current company or boss; sometimes, your career path needs a U-turn. It can happen for a number of reasons — you want to pursue your passion, work isn’t rewarding anymore, you’re not challenged enough, industry changes don’t excite you like they used to, or your skills aren’t put to good use.

So, it’s time to consider going in a different direction. Still, taking that leap of faith is hard; you’ve got one stubborn foot that wants to stay on the ground, where it’s safe and familiar.

Whatever you do, don’t walk into work one day, quit, and expect to start your new career the next day. A career change takes time and a smooth, methodical approach. Here are some pointers to help you on your journey.

1. Find your passion

What’s your dream job? Maybe you've always wanted to work in healthcare, but life took you down a much different path. Or perhaps you’ve spent your working life in a cubicle when you really want to work with your hands as an auto mechanic. Do some soul-searching to find a career that calls to you.

Need some help heeding that call? Take a career quiz online to find inspiration.

2. Schedule informational interviews

Informative interviews are a great way to pick the brain of someone in your desired industry. That could be a family member, friend, former colleague, or LinkedIn connection. 

Don't underestimate the power of LinkedIn. It's a great way to connect with people who have the job title you hope to have. 

Remember these discussions are just that — discussions. They’re not job interviews. Ask this person about the pressing topics facing the industry today. Have them describe their typical day-to-day and ask what skills are important in their role.

These queries will help you make connections and prepare for future job interview questions.

3. Look up job listings

Now it’s time to go job hunting! Log onto any of the job search websites and find postings in your field. However, your goal here and now isn’t to apply for these jobs — not yet, anyway. It’s to review the job descriptions, requirements, and other information they provide.

What ground do you need to make up before you’re a legitimate candidate? Are certain degrees or certifications required? Do you need to be proficient in software you’ve never heard of?

The information you mine from these job postings can serve as your playbook to map out a path to your new career.

4. Take classes

Some career changes will require additional education. How you get that education can vary.

Are there online classes you can take at an accredited university? What about night classes at a nearby community college? There are also online certification courses that could do the trick.

Going back to school is never easy. It takes time, money, and commitment. But if this career change is important to you, it could be a sacrifice worth making.

5. Create a portfolio

The best way to prove to skeptical employers that you’re capable of doing the job is obvious — show them! For instance, if you want to get into web design, show them websites you’ve created. If writing is your next calling, have blog or story samples available that showcase the quality of your work. That makes it much easier to mitigate any concerns employers might have about hiring someone new to the industry.

6. Own your story

One of the best interview tips is to be authentic. Employers don’t hire résumés; they hire people. With that in mind, embrace the path that got you to where you are now. Talk openly about your change of career — what went into the decision, how you did it, and what excites you most about your new path.

Interviewers will see your past experiences on your application, so don’t feel like you need to keep them a secret. Be open and honest.

What interviewer wouldn’t appreciate that?

What to remember

Why would anyone waste years of their life trapped in a career they no longer care for? Because they’re afraid. The path they’re on is proven and safe.

Changing careers involves a major leap of faith out of your comfort zone. But if you prepare wisely, you can set yourself up for success in the next stage of your career.