Success Top Tips
Not everyone kicks off their working life with their dream job. In fact, most people who leave high school or university usually end up in careers completely different to what they had intended during their studies.
If you’re considering a shift in career, it’s definitely worth putting some thought into how you will progress your desired change while maintaining your existing lifestyle. We’ve put together our top tips for a successful transition to the career of your dreams.
1. Know what is driving the desire to change
Take a step back and consider what’s driving your decision to change career. Would upskilling broaden your skillset and bring more enjoyment to your current position? Would a change of scenery reignite your passion for your current field of work? Be certain that your desire for a new career is based on the right reasons.
2. Do your research.
Seek out other people who are currently working in the field and ask them what they love and what they find challenging about the work. Look on jobsearch sites to see if there are vacancies and if the career is one that there is ongoing work for. Know in advance what you are getting yourself into.
3. Sort your finances out before you start.
There’s no point in considering a career change if your financial situation relies on your current employment. Most career changes will require a step backwards, if you’re lucky a step sideways, but rarely a straight step up. You might need to take time off to study or train and you don’t want to be stressing about where the next rent payment or electricity bill while you’re studying for exams.
4. Be realistic.
Rome wasn’t built in a day – and your new career probably won’t be either. Use the net to find out about alternative pathways to your new career – are there options for learning on the job, can you get recognised prior learning for your experience? Be prepared for setbacks – in every worthwhile journey there is bound to be a few.
5. Get yourself a mentor to help you navigate your new industry.
Seek out someone you admire and trust to be your mentor in your newly chosen field. Get involved in networking functions and events to enhance your knowledge on who is who in the industry and how it works. Ask questions like what skills are most valued in the industry and what the greatest challenges are, so that you have all the right ammunition when you get the interview stage of your new chosen career path.
6. Do just one thing every day to work towards your goal.
One thing doesn’t seem like much, but it all adds up, particularly on days where your inbox is overflowing, the phone doesn’t stop ringing, and it’s a mission to find five minutes to eat. There’s never a perfect time to start towards your new career goal – just be content to take one step each day towards your chosen path. The steps add up and before you know it you will have a clear vision of the right path to take on your exciting career adventure.
