Are you thinking about making a career change, but you are not sure what you want to do next? You are not alone! Many people decide they want to make a change, but they are not sure what that change should be. Wouldn’t it be great if someone could just show you the path forward that is right for you? But it’s not always that simple. Making a change will require some work on your part, time to process and patience with yourself. Read on for 5 strategies on how to get you started.
Take Time to Reflect
Think about why you are looking to make a career change. What do you currently like and dislike about your role and/ or organization? Understanding why you want to make a change will be beneficial to you moving forward. It’s important to do some internal work before jumping into a job search.
The first exercise I give to clients is a values exercise to determine what their top values are. This helps you to focus on what is most important to you and make decisions in line with your values.
Identify Your Strengths
Next, identify your strengths. What are you good at? What is distinctive about you? You will want to utilize your strengths in any future role. Playing to your strengths allows you to perform your best at work. Working in a role that utilizes your strengths will bring you energy, not drain your energy.
Write It Out
In addition to the strategies mentioned above, think about your list of non-negotiables. Even if you are not sure what type of role you want, there are usually a list of items that you know you DO want in your next career or role. Some questions to think about include:
- What qualities do you desire in a career?
- Do you like working on a team or more independently?
- Is having access to professional development important to you?
- Is having room to grow in the organization important to you?
- Would you prefer an office job or something more active?
- Is having a flexible work schedule important?
- Are there specific criteria you have for: commute, salary, benefits?
What are must-haves for you in a new role?
Next, make a list of any type of career or role you have considered. Even if they seem out of reach, make an exhaustive list to start, which you can narrow down later. Focus on brainstorming ideas and dreaming big, not just on what seems realistic.
Research Options
Start to research your options based on the exercises above. There are many tools available online to research career paths and roles, including potential training needed and salary estimates. Your research should help you to narrow down your options.
Enlist the Help of Your Network
Talk to others about their career paths and current roles. This provides much more information than researching online alone ever could. By having these conversations, you can better understand if you would like doing this type of work. Ask your close network – those that know you best – trusted colleagues, friends, family, for their suggestions. Often, someone else is able to see something that you are not able to see.
The thought of changing careers can be daunting, but using the 5 strategies outlined above will help streamline your process and have you on your way to finding a role that is a great fit for you.
Still need some help? Schedule a time to talk about how we can work together to help you make a successful career change.