Considering a Career Change? Take These 5 Key Steps

Nearly everyone will think about changing jobs or taking their career in a different direction at some point in their life.

The reasons for the change can be many and varied. Perhaps you want to try something different, fancy pursuing a career that pays more or want to wind down prior to retirement. Whatever the reason, there really is no bad time to switch it up and attempt something new, as long as you have considered all of the appropriate steps and potential consequences.

So, with that in mind, here are five keys steps to take prior to taking the plunge.

1. Get to know more about the new sector

Before starting a new job in a different sector, you need to learn as much about what you’re likely to face as possible. Read articles and talk to people that are already doing similar work, and ensure you get to know the good, the bad and the ugly.

2. Figure out your key skills

What key attributes and characteristics do you have that will help you transfer to your new career? What do you believe will make you good at the role you are considering? By thinking carefully about this, you’ll also then be more aware of where your blind spots are.

3. Education, education, education

Whether you want to be a mechanic, nail technician or teaching assistant, there are courses available that will help you develop the foundations that will be crucial to your future career. Ready to start learning?

Check out the  available courses at alpha academy

4. Get some work experience

Before plunging headfirst into your new career, see if you can find a way of testing the waters. If possible, get a work placement or internship, just so you can get a better idea of what will be expected of you, and whether you have the capacity – or indeed the desire – to do it long-term.

5. Don’t be afraid to keep exploring

Just because you’ve settled on the idea of a career change, don’t put yourself in a corner. You need to figure out exactly what the right choice for you is. Perhaps you know the industry you’d like to be part of, or maybe you only have a vague idea of what you’d like to do. Whatever the situation, keep an open mind.