8 Steps to Changing Your Career - TheJobNetwork

8 Steps to Changing Your Career - TheJobNetworkIf youre considering changing your career, you might want to consider following these key steps. googletag.cmd.push(function() googletag.display(div-gpt-ad-1467144145037-0) ) 1. Think whyyou want to make a changeThe first step is to ask yourself some important questions. Do you hate your job? Do you think the grass is greener somewhere else? The more important question is why are those things true? Once you get clear on the why, you can figure out whats really motivating you, and have a chance of finding something that will truly hold your interest and attention. It can also save you from facing the same (or different) unforeseen problems in your next position.2. Think whatyour ideal future looks likeFollowing your passion is one thing, but making smart career choices is another. Figure out exactly what you want your new career to look like, what exactly you want to be doing on a daily basis. Then figure out what you already have in you r back pocket that qualifies you. What is your capital here? What can you leverage to ease your transition and net this in the win column?3.Assess everything youll need to tackleMake sure you know exactly what you need to have prepared in order to make your transition. Are there any skills or certifications you need to acquire first? Do you have the financial safety net to transition? Will there be any other factors such as childcare or housing that youll need to consider? Avoid getting your pants caught around your ankles and only make your move when you know you can execute.4. Make a planBefore you act, plan. Figure out your goal, and platzset a timeline. Break it up into steps and milestones and then set about checking each off. Measure your progress and enjoy the momentum you build as you work toward your new career.5. Track your progressHold yourself accountable to your timeline. Set deadlines and reminders for different pieces of your transition plan. Make lists, or even Excel spreadsheets, to keep yourself on track. Youre investing a lot in making this change, make sure youre wasting none of your time or energy.6. Pivot your brandYoull need to shift your image a bit so that your new audience will understand and accept you. Make it easier for them to get you, where youre coming from, and why they should want you. Figure out how to set yourself apart from competitors whove been in that field for years. Figure out how your old career narrative can be adapted as an asset in your new one. Think of yourself as a daring new product for a tired field, then sell that.7. Call in the cavalryYou have people. You have a network. Mobilize them. Consider asking your most trusted contacts for help. Ask for specific things that will make it easiest for the people who have your back to contribute effectively to your cause. You have a network use it8. Meet the right peopleYou need to know some important contacts in your new field. This is a given. Dont let it stress you o ut. Show that you are genuinely interested in their experience and expertise, flatter carefully but not too much, and dont ambush anyone. A little genuine respect can go a long way in sweetening up valuable allies.Change is scary. If you follow these steps, you wont be at a risk of bailing on your career change dream. Do your homework, be methodical and open-eyed, and then take a well-placed flying leap.