According to a Bureau of Labor Statistics report, baby boomers average about 12 different jobs between the ages of 18-54.
More working adults want to make a career change than you might think. Are you considering job switching?
If you are, this guide will help you navigate your career change. Keep reading to learn some helpful tips.
Determine What Kind of Change You Want
If you’re considering a mid-career change, you should first stop to think about the kind of job transition you’re interested in. For example, are you interested in a different role within the same field? Alternatively, you might want a different kind of career that utilizes some of your already existing skills.
One of the biggest challenges is starting a new career in a completely different industry with no existing knowledge or skills. Determining the change you want will help you plan to start your new dream career.
Build the Skills You Need
Going down a new career path will often require you to develop new skills. These new skills will help you succeed while applying to the new kinds of jobs you’re interested in.
Depending on the career change you want to make, you might need to go back to school to get the appropriate degree. However, certain career changes might be possible with some online courses and certifications to build on the skills you already have.
Re-Examine Your Resume
During a career change, you’ll need to make some updates to your resume. The biggest changes you’ll need to make should focus on the summary statement section.
Here you’ll explain how the skills you’ve developed in your current field can be used in a new role or industry. You might want to cut out some parts of your resume if they don’t apply to the new industry you’re entering.
Additionally, focus on writing cover letters for the new jobs you’re applying to.
Reach Out to Your Network
You’ve likely built a great network in your current career role. This network can help you advance to the new phase of your career.
Reach out to your professional contacts, especially those in the industry you’re interested in. Ask them questions about the industry to get a better idea of what you need to succeed.
If you know someone who works as a headhunter, consider reaching out. As recruiters, they might know the kinds of questions you’ll get in job interviews in your new industry.
Prepare for Interviews
When changing careers, you’ll need to brush up on your interview skills. Practice answering some common interview questions before you’ve started applying to new jobs.
Job Switching Tips You Should Follow
Job switching can be a stressful time in your life but hopefully, this guide can steer you in the right direction. Remember to build the new skills you need and reach out to your network too.
Did you find helpful tips in this blog? If you did, check out similar career-related blogs on our site.
