You’ve been thinking about it for quite some time. Your current career no longer fits your lifestyle. You’d prefer to make more money. You may even desire more creative freedom. It’s time for a career change, but you don’t know where to begin.
- Don’t panic. Thousands of Americans change careers each year, and you can as well. The following are six easy steps to a successful career change.
- Perform a resumé overhaul. The most common concern among career changers is they don’t believe they have the credentials needed in order to change fields. Bypass this hurdle by using your resumé to highlight your transferable skills. For instance, a salesperson interested in working as a fundraiser in the nonprofit sector might focus on his or her networking skills, administrative talents, communication skills, successful sales history, and business development background.
- Polish your portfolio. Find a volunteer opportunity that will allow you to perform a role similar to your desired career. Spend as much time as possible honing your skill set, developing your reputation, and expanding your network. Try to gather two to three impressive letters of reference from professionals who believe in your abilities. Include them with your resumés when you apply for positions.
- Attend networking events. Spend several hours per month networking with people who work in your desired industry. Make it known that you’re interested in using your current expertise to impact their field. Become well-known in influential circles, and people who matter will remember your name when opportunities arise.
- Spend one hour or more per week applying for positions in your desired field. You may also use this time to research the names of the hiring managers or decision makers who will read your cover letters so that you can address your inquiries directly to them. If the job advertisement shows a telephone number for the hiring manager, and there’s nothing indicating that phone calls are unacceptable, contact the hiring manger directly to introduce yourself. Don’t be afraid to request an interview.
- You’re a product worth purchasing, so sell yourself in the interview. Talk about your qualities in context of how they will positively impact the company’s bottom line. Speak humbly, but confidently about how your experience makes your more qualified than those competing against you for the position.
- Follow up with the hiring manager after your interview. Don’t fret if you’re not offered the position. Ask to be considered for future opportunities.
The career path is a journey with twists, turns, and bumps in the road. Remember that it may take time to find the right fit. Arm yourself with a good attitude, a strong desire to persevere, and the belief that your new career will be worth the work.
