1) Start your research with a pros and cons list✅
Before diving in, start with a simple list - what do you love about your current career, and what would you rather not do again? This is a great way for you to know where you stand and what you’re looking for. When it comes to career possibilities, the sky's the limit, so you’ll probably need to narrow it down. Chances are, you’re looking for a career switch to get something better: be it growth, fulfilment or finances. In order to get a head start, make sure you know what you want and more importantly - what you don’t.
2) Evaluate your skills📖
Alright, now you know what’s your new dream job. It’s time to have a look at your skills and how you can transfer them to this brand new adventure. Don’t worry too much about not having experience in a certain industry - your skills are probably more valuable than you realize, even if they were used or acquired in a different context. There are certain paths that require stepping-up your game. Nowadays, this isn’t a hard thing to do: from millions of online certified courses or even universities, to in person programs, the possibilities for you to up-skill are endless. Start with a simple online search, or if you have friends already active in your chosen industry, don’t be afraid to ask them for advice.
3) Talk to a mentor or take a shadowing opportunity💼
Research today is easier than ever, and that’s great! But sometimes, there’s nothing like real-life experience before you make that final call: is this as great as you think it is? Talk to a mentor who’s been in the industry for a while and prepared new-comers. They’ll know how to approach the topic of starting fresh and give you a realistic image. If possible, take the opportunity to shadow someone already doing the job you have your heart set on. This could be an internship or maybe just a couple of days, but it will make a huge difference. Nothing beats real life experience!
4) Explore your network🧑🤝🧑
Now you’re sure: this is gonna be your new career. Yay! So...how does one get a job in a brand new industry? Research shows that 70% of all jobs are not posted publicly and 80% of jobs are filled through connections. Start by exploring your existing network. Don’t shy away from getting in touch with people you’re not very close to - you’ve got nothing to lose, and potentially everything to gain. Besides, one day you may just return that favor! If your network doesn’t seem like much help in a certain industry, it’s probably time to extend it with relevant contacts. One way to do this is attend as many networking events as possible: online or in person (when possible), try to be there and meet valuable people that could help you get your dream job.
5) Game time🎉
It’s been a long and exciting road, but you’ve made it so far! It’s time for action. Before you start applying for jobs, make sure you’re ready to (rock &) roll. Revamp your CV to add all those new skills you’ve acquired, have a look at your LinkedIn profile and update it accordingly, write a cover letter that you can adapt to each opening - and let’s go! It’s time for you to jump in and start looking for jobs. Put your heart into it and always trust the journey: you’ll get there sooner than you think.
