I once heard a professor say that, on average, Americans change careers eight times in their lives. That number seemed unbelievable to me at the time, as a hungry undergraduate student who had envisioned a clear life plan for the next 50+ years.
Fast forward to our job market. Gone are the days when you can spend your life working for one company, moving up the ladder, and eventually retiring from it. Instead, many professionals will find themselves at a crossroads, seeking new opportunities and challenges.
Whether you’re looking for a change due to burnout, a desire for personal growth, or simply because you’ve discovered a new passion, mastering the art of the “career pivot” can lead you to a more fulfilling professional life.
However, to reach that goal in the smoothest way possible, with minimal risk involved, there are some essential steps in order to navigate this exciting journey successfully.
- Complete a Self-Assessment
When making a successful career pivot, you must know yourself well. Take the time to reflect on your strengths, weaknesses, values, and passions. Consider your skills, experience, what truly motivates you, and what would make you excited to learn. Get clear on your current state. This self-awareness will serve as the foundation for your career transition.
- Clarify Your Next Step
At this point, you might have a basic idea of how you want the next part of your professional life to look. Or, perhaps you are unengaged in your current position but are unsure where to go next.
Spend time asking yourself these questions:
- What do I want to achieve in my new career?
- What industries or roles align with my passions and skills?
- Would I encounter any lifestyle changes?
- Do I need to acquire more education or experience?
- How much do I actually know about the new career I have been considering?
- Am I open to other roles at my current organization?
- Am I open to different opportunities within my current role?
- What do I like in my current role? What don’t I like? What would I like to keep and what do I want to leave behind?
Setting clear, measurable, and thought-out goals will help you stay focused and motivated through the transition, while ensuring you are on the right path.
- Eliminate Your Boulders
Identify the potential obstacles in your path. This includes the skills and qualifications you may need, as well as financial preparation for any change in income. Conduct a skills gap analysis to determine what you need to learn or improve. This may involve taking courses, gaining certifications, or acquiring relevant experience through volunteering or freelance work.
Of course, there are countless ways to eliminate the boulders currently blocking your path without quitting your current job outright. Utilize nights and weekends for classes, building a network, or learning new skills. Spend a day shadowing someone with the career you want to ensure it’s what you envisioned. Speak to professionals in the world you would like to enter, and become familiar with what their daily responsibilities are. Consider part-time internships or freelance work to bridge the gap between your previous work and your desired position.
- Build Strategic Connections
Networking is a powerful tool in any career pivot. Connect with professionals in your target industry through networking events and industry-specific groups. Seek mentorship from individuals who have successfully made similar career pivots, as their insights can be invaluable.
Utilize your current network as well. Tell everyone you know about the journey you are on and be specific. You might be surprised who will be able to refer you at just the right moment.
Take the time to revamp your resume and LinkedIn profile to showcase your transferable skills and experiences. This will serve as another networking platform to take advantage of. Highlight relevant accomplishments that demonstrate your suitability for your prospective new role or industry.
- Be Resilient and Patient
Career pivots are not always smooth sailing. You may face setbacks, rejection, or uncertainty along the way. It’s crucial, as these obstacles pop up, that you keep your long-term goals in mind and adapt to challenges as they arise.
As you pursue these goals, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from career counselors, coaches, or support groups. They can provide valuable insights, encouragement, and accountability as you navigate your career pivot.
B & M Coaching and Consulting leads clients to discovering who they are, clarifying their mission, and building a plan to accomplish it. If you are looking for guidance on those next steps to achieve your purpose and make positive movement towards your professional goals, reach out here.