Sometimes, the job you like isn't the right fit anymore. You expected it would be more rewarding or offer better opportunities, but sadly, it isn't. Or perhaps you've had a wonderful job and are prepared to move on. There could be a million reasons why you should change your career.
Eventually, you start looking for guidance and I know many of you go for career transition programme. It is a smart move because it is better than going haywire and not getting any outcome. But, you know any step taken towards your career is futile if you have no strategies to implement. You will be in a dilemma- career path v/s career pivot? Developing plans will help you stay focused and achieve the goals you sought in your job. Today, let’s talk about the strategies that will help you with your career pivot.
1. Learn the in-demand skills to create new opportunities
I have always prioritized learning whether I have switched careers or not. It is not just about getting that huge raise or getting into your dream organization. The highly desirable abilities are particularly beneficial in creating new opportunities. It's crucial to think about your job and the talents that employers are most looking for when deciding what knowledge you should acquire in the long run.
The best career pivots I have seen in my network were the ones who were not looking for significant change in their immediate environment, they kept working. Simultaneously, they learn the skills that were in high demand in the market and they established themselves where they can easily approach the individual/organization they wanted to work with.
Mostly those skills are there with you that you are looking to learn, it’s just you need to transfer those skills to different work or places. So observe yourself, and make a note of your skills.
2. Learn how to talk about your experience
I have always shared my experiences with you, regardless of the fact whether it is about challenges or accomplishments. When you give yourself the opportunity to talk about your experiences, you come to know the essential points of the transformations in your life. But it is not that easy to share especially when you're eager to get started, it can be challenging to know how to talk about the work. You'd love to accomplish this, particularly if you are coming from a different field.
Maybe you are a software engineer and developer, and now you are thinking about switching to social media manager. Both have their challenges, both require your latest skills in the job. Yes, the only difference is one is a tech job and the other is a creative field. When you are in the interview, you must share the minute details of your job and how it can help you in the career pivot that you are taking. If you are not sharing these details, how would your employer know what projects or clients you would be able to handle?
3. Do your research
I am sure you must have done a lot of research on this question - When to make a career pivot? You must be asking your peers, about their experiences and the results they achieved. Here you are getting to know their experience. But what about your experience while you are on the career pivot path?
It's crucial to have some experience under your belt while changing your job route. The more prepared you are, the more successful you will be. Make time to learn more about a new field if you're interested in changing directions. You have a better chance of subsequently appreciating the job if you understand more before getting started.
Additionally, the more knowledge you have, the less likely it is that anything unexpected will surprise or disappoint you.
4. Explore your network
While you are in your career pivot phase, your connections may be able to recommend you for entry-level positions in a different industry. It will save you a tonne of time and energy spent courting hiring managers who are reviewing your application. And nothing excites potential employers more than someone recommending the risk they are taking on you.
I cannot stress enough how important it is to amplify this n your network, because they are already from different industries, of course you are not listening to everyone but at least you will have a plenty of updated information regarding your next move.
5. Keep the track of your progress
You are willing to keep the track of your money because you are investing in important things. Similarly goes with your time and energy, now you can’t see it that’s why it is often ignored.
But keeping the track of your progress while you are in the transition phase of your career is non-negotiable. Keep these points in your mind -
Distractions are the change in seasons that will make a way in your life. But as you are prepared for the seasons, similarly look at the bigger picture here. Look beyond that moment and focus on your set goals.
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Plan and organize your time
Achieving your goals requires time management. The steps you will take to achieve your goals should be planned and organized once you have determined what they are.
It is not possible to analyze your mistakes all by yourself, so it is better to work with a mentor or a coach who aligns with your vision. The valuable feedback you will receive would be a path to infinite possibilities.
6. Practice makes you perfect
The best career pivots can be an overwhelming experience. Yes, it is exciting but you are still understanding the nuances. You must be willing to accept that there will be various things to understand and even if you have got the skill, you will have to upgrade yourself.
Combining knowledge and experience gives you the opportunity to succeed in ways that others can't. So, be confident when you enter the room for the first interview. You alone are responsible for your profession, and you have the power to modify it any way you like.
7. Go for secondary certifications
Fortunately, there are various certification courses available in the market. But only a few will enhance your skills in the career pivot phase. You must be thinking what are those certifications?
The first is the Design Thinking certificate that assists you to solve the tricky challenges in the business world. It puts an emphasis on measurable results so you can concentrate on finding answers rather than obsessing over problems and issues.
The second is Agile Certification, which helps create project management strategies. The best part about this certification is it once you complete it, and implement it in the practical world it will lead to a higher package job for you.
Remember one thing whatever skills or certifications or programs you are taking up, take a pause in between and analyze, how it is beneficial for your career pivot and the future organization. What risks will you be willing to take? What work will be more suitable for you and what do you need to delegate?
Strategies will only work if you ask the relevant question from time to time.
Shellye is committed to helping people from diverse backgrounds to achieve their aspirations in careers and life. The content published above was made in collaboration with our members.
Shellye Archambeau is determined to help you with all possible strategies to climb the ladder of success. She values your feedback. Do mention them in the comment section below.