Making a career move can be a challenging and turbulent time for candidates at all levels. Here at Freshminds, we do our best to help make this transition as smooth as possible. The value placed on creating a mark and finding your calling can become a huge deterrent for those looking to make a change, so it is imperative to understand that you’ll probably change career direction on multiple occasions within your professional life cycle.
Regardless of when and where you are in your current career track, it is essential to be able to recognise when its time to make a move.
Are you engaged with the work that you do?
Are you motivated, challenged and excited to take on new projects?
Do you believe that your skills are adequately utilised frequently?
Do you see room for progression and development?
When you envision yourself as a successful person, what do you see?
If these questions challenge your current position and track, you should likely start considering a change in career. Deciding to switch career can seem complicated and disarming, however, once the decision is made it is vital for you to find what needs to be put into motion to make the change as smooth as possible.
Financial Float
Just like a pension or an ISA, when you decide to make the switch, it’s vital that you prioritise the possibility of a money gap. When aiming to avoid rushing into an opportunity that’s not quite right, a small safety net can make all the difference. On average, it can take about 6-12 months to find a new job and up to 4 years to the full re-educate and immerse yourself in a new industry. However, the time spent nurturing this foundation is invaluable and will set you up for immeasurable success.
Research is Bliss
If you aim to move to an entirely new industry, it is essential to recognise that although skills translate, market knowledge and industry experience is developed and cultivated. You can begin by using the intermedial time to start reading and researching into the field you wish to enter; this research can also occur while you’re still in your current position. It is essential to establish what skills can be transferred, what needs to work, and how to grow in your newfound career.
Personal Branding
Make sure your LinkedIn is up to date, that the information on your website/CV is correct and most importantly register yourself on recruitment and job websites. The process of assessing your brand can also help you to recognise which of your skills are transferable and how you have arrived at this career crossroads.
Networking
The thought of spending copious amounts of your free time in a room full of strangers is unnerving for most; nevertheless immersing yourself in a new industry requires you to engage with people who have the knowledge and expertise you need. If it’s finding an event to go to that you’re struggling with, make sure you get on mailing lists while equally keeping your ear to the social media ground.
Career Planning Tools
Career planning tools on websites such as Prospects or TargetJobs are useful to conjure up a few ideas, but the key is to think about the kind of skills you enjoy and are good at, the environment you'd like to be in and the sort of people you want to work with. Once you've considered those factors, you'll be able to do some more targeted research and look out for specific job roles, with or without external assistance.
Utilise your recruitment agency
Ask your recruiter for advice on your skill set and what industry will suit you. Recruiters are there to make your career change smoother and place you in your ideal role. Make sure to, therefore, utilise this advantage and take time out to discuss with your recruiter your concerns and hopes with making the move.
Changing gears and moving industries can be abundantly enabled by good personal branding, and when aided by the right recruiter making the move can be an extremely beneficial experience.
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