Provocare Coaching

2022 and the new year new me shite is fast approaching, and why not? it is a good time as any to re-set and plan our next adventure.

As someone who had several and varied but similar jobs in my life, choosing to change can be life-changing. However, it can also be a disastrous move if not taken carefully.

I remember my early job being one that didn’t pay well, was exhausting, and I couldn’t wait till leave. It turned out a couple of decades on, and I now know it was the best and most enjoyable job I ever had. Go figure!

Getting a job in a career field that you actually want to work in can seem like a daunting task. It is easy to become discouraged and frustrated along the way, but with the proper knowledge and tools, you can make it through your journey successfully.

This post, I hope, will give you some insight into things to consider before commencing a  career change.

If you are an experienced professional and want to change careers, it is very important that you do not get discouraged. Many things can complicate your journey, such as lack of experience in the new career area, a gap in your employment history, and previous education or skill level. For example, if you have been working in construction and want to become a doctor, you may need to go back to school for more time than you feel comfortable with.

It is essential to stay focused on your goals and remember why you are exploring making changes.

Write down your thoughts and keep a journal of your progress. Taking the time to reflect on your journey can help and keep you motivated.

Here are some tips:

Identify your motivation and reasons for wanting a change in the first place. 

Reasons could range from wanting more money to a feeling of emptiness in your current career. Pinpointing your motivations can help you stay focused and positive throughout the process.

Being reflective, honest and authentic can help with this…

• Do you feel valued in your current role? And is there a good fit with your values, the organisation, and the management team?
• Are your skills and knowledge being used to their fullest?
• Is your work challenging, and are you still learning?
• Does my work excite me?
• Has my current role become too comfortable and safe?

knowing when its time to  move on

It is important to note that there isn’t a specific time frame to remain at a job. However, if you have been unhappy for a long time and nothing has changed despite your attempts to voice concerns or suggestions, it may be time to move on.

It might also be true that you’re too happy, safe and comfortable, you may be missing out on new adventures, and there is only one way to find out.

Deciding what you want

knowing what to do next can be overwhelming, but it is essential to remember that you are not alone in this process.  Reaching out to your friends, employer, and [eople who have been through it, you might just be surprised how much support is there.

Start researching the new career area you want to pursue and become an expert on the new role and related activities.

To help narrow your focus, consider

• What would your new job look like if you had a magic wand?
• The most enjoyable part of my current job is?
• The parts I hate are?
• What do people say you are good at it?
• What are you always getting feedback on?
• What would a great day at work look like?
• What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
• Is there a hobby or interest that could become a job?
• What skills do I have and want to use in my new job?
• What skills would I want to learn?
• Values what are your negotiables and non-negotiables?

Know your values

When looking for a new job, it’s important to prioritise, and what you value can help drive this. While getting paid well is undoubtedly important, it may be just as vital that you find a role in which your values match up with the organisations’ values and culture. Remember, having a good work-life balance can make a difference in how satisfied you are at work.

When making a career change, it is important to consider all factors involved. You may need to go back to training to gain additional skills or experience, or you may have to take a lower salary to get your foot in the door.

It is essential to stay focused on your longer-term goals and remember why you are making this change and what you can and cannot compromise on.  Check how my post on goal setting.

What will you bring to a new role? 

After researching the new career area and working out if you need to acquire any necessary skills or training, you should spend some time thinking about what you can bring to a new role. This includes previous experience, transferable skills, knowledge, relationships, historical lessons, qualifications.

Don’t forget to think about passion, drive and motivation, as these qualities will be important in deciding if your new role will let feed or hinder these.

Now it is time to generate your shortlist

Remember to obtain help from professionals who have experience in career counselling and guidance or a coach.  It may cost in the short term, but the investment will likely be worth the return in the long term.

Many free job search engines and online tools can be beneficial for searching for jobs.

You can also create a customised resume to improve your chances of securing an interview with potential employers.

You can reach out to people who work in your desired field to get some tips before applying.

Research employers who have roles in your desired field, see who is best in the business, or who is up and coming and who might have opportunities in the pipeline.

Once you have a good idea of what you want, start putting together a list of potential employers. Try to narrow it down to five to seven employers, and then research each one in-depth.

Find out what the company culture is like, its values, and the job requirements.  After narrowing your list, contact each employer to see if they or their networks are currently hiring.

While searching, build experience in your chosen field either through your current role, through volunteering, taking online courses, and meeting with people working in similar positions.

Make sure and get help marketing yourself in your CV, cover letters and your online presence and personal networks.

If you are one of these people who are great at what you do but unsure how to sell yourself or interview well, then ask for help.

And lastly, Don’t give up. Be patient, have some self belfie,  and persistent, and learn as you go.

Good luck 

These basic concepts above are essential for anyone considering a career change, but the strategies will vary depending on whether you are changing careers entirely or just transitioning to another area within your current industry.

Deciding to make a career change is not a decision to be taken lightly. There are many things to consider, including the skills you will need, the employers you should target, and the steps you need to take to get there.

But if you take the time to plan carefully and follow through with a well-thought-out strategy, making a career change can be an advantageous experience.

Deciding to stay with your current employer can also be a good choice; Grass may look green on the other side please make sure it is before you take the risk.

Be prepared; a change might not work out or might be the best decision you ever made.  Go one Give it a BASH! you know you want to 🙂