Navigating Career Change: Tips for Switching Roles and Industries

Gone are the days when people stayed in one job their entire career. Our Extension Recruiters are finding that the average worker wants to keep growing and learning, which means workers are switching careers/industries more often. Changing positions or industries can be great and exciting! Whether you’re experiencing burnout, want to try something new, or are looking for your next challenge, we’re here to help. No matter the circumstance, if you want to switch careers or enter a new field, we have great tips for you! 

 

The first step to considering a career change is to perform a self-assessment. It’s important to ask yourself questions to figure out your reasons for wanting a change and deciding what’s most important to you in a career. Start by asking yourself why you want to change careers: Are you looking for more of a challenge? Is your company culture not a right fit for you anymore? Understanding your reason why will help you figure out what to specifically look for in your next role.

 

Another important factor to consider are your strengths and weaknesses. Being aware of this can help you decide what skills are necessary as you are looking at job descriptions for your potential next role. Other good questions to ask yourself: What aspects of a company culture are important to you? and of course, what are you interested in? But most of all, you must decide your goals. With these factors considered, you should be able to determine what jobs are a good fit for you. 

 

Entering a new field can be intimidating, so doing your research is definitely beneficial. You may find it helpful to learn what type of skills are needed in a particular career, what types of roles and growth potential there are, salary ranges, benefits, and much more. 

 

Another great way to learn is by networking. Connecting with people who are already working in the field will help you gather information and advice. People are usually very willing to give information, so don’t be afraid to ask questions! Our Search Consultant, Corey Connolly, recently changed industries here at Extension, and his best advice is, “Be open-minded. You don’t know everything, so you need to keep learning. If you learn something new every day, that is the goal”. 

 

As you’re reviewing job descriptions, check out the required skill section and evaluate if you have any transferable skills. For those skills that you don’t possess, there are many resources out there that allow you to complete certifications and learn. Platforms like Google and Hubspot Academy offer free online courses for many different skills in several job categories. 

 

Also, don’t forget about your soft skills! Some of the most desired soft skills employers look for are communication, time management, problem-solving, leadership, creativity, teamwork, etc. If you don’t have all the required technical skills right away, make sure to emphasize your soft skills on your resume. 

 

When looking to start over in a new industry, understand that you may need to take a few steps back. As you’re transitioning, you may not be able to start at the level that you were in your last industry, but that’s okay! One of our IT Recruiters, Jen Smith, said, “Entering a new field is not going to be easy and the knowledge isn’t going to come overnight”.  

 

With that being said, don’t be afraid to make that leap! Be willing to learn, absorb information, and work hard. With these tactics in mind, we’re sure you will succeed and find a role that’s a fit for you and meets your needs. 

 

If you need assistance in finding your next dream job, need resume help, or career advice, we can help! Reach out to Extension today by emailing us at team@extensionrecruiting.com or by calling us at 414-727-1715. We can’t wait to hear from you!