5 TOP TIPS WHEN CHANGING YOUR CAREER

Changing careers can seem like a daunting prospect but it can be a great opportunity for you. It offers you the chance to build new skills and find new challenges. Many people change careers for a variety of reasons such as job burnout, better salary or simply trying to find a better work life balance. The main question of course is where do you start, who could you consult about it? There is plenty of help and guidance out there to support you especially recruitment agencies. They will offer support in areas such as updating your CV, preparing for interviews and all the other things you need in your career change toolbox. To help you on your way here are 5 top tips to guide you in that promising career change.

1. Update Your CV.

Your CV is one of your most important tools in order to enter a new field so it is vitally important it is completely updated. Employers will look at your CV, your many experiences and why you would be a strong fit for this position. Ensure you highlight your strengths and your experience and skills relating to the role.  This is also a huge chance to display your transferable skills that you can bring to a new position. There are also plenty of CV workshops if you are unsure as to how you should go about updating your CV. Contact your local recruitment agency as they will have knowledge of upcoming workshops.

2. Update your skills.

Changing career will allow you to develop and update your skillset, lifelong learning is expected from all employers so they will want to hear and see what you have been doing to stay relevant.  New skills can not only help further your career but help strengthen your soft skills such as your confidence and communication. Whilst it is good to build new skills it does not mean the skills from your previous work are to be discarded. A new work environment allows you to transfer those skills and further utilize them. Examples of transferable skills are those such as teamwork and organization.

3. LinkedIn

LinkedIn is the perfect opportunity to develop your personal brand online and showcase your digital presence. There are several ways to promote yourself on LinkedIn than just writing down your experiences. You can let recruiters know that you are open to job opportunities by updating your personal headline. You can display your skills which your connections can endorse you for and you can also receive recommendations from former colleagues/professional connections. You can now upload examples of your work/portfolio to LinkedIn so potential employers can see your strengths and how you could be the perfect fit for their organization.

4. Networking

There is no greater opportunity than to make new professional connections than networking. Since you will be changing careers, research the field you wish to enter and any upcoming events in this area you can attend. Social platforms such as Eventbrite and Meetup are good to network with people that have a similar interest or attend a company event that you wish to work for.

Don’t be afraid to approach people and ask for advice or guidance as to how you can enter this sector or of any new job openings. Also inquire about training or workshops to help further your potential in this industry.

5. Prepare for Interviews  

Finally make sure you prepare for any upcoming interviews. This will help with your confidence and your ability to have two way conversations. Please highlight relevant experience and prepare your answers and examples around the key problems that needs solved by the employer. Dress suitably for the interview. Ensure you know the travel route and arrive at least 10 minutes early. There is plenty of available guidance to help you prepare for interviews so check out our website for more interview hints and tips.