Ways for a successful career change in 2022
In a rapidly changing world, the idea of a long and steady career is becoming increasingly outdated. In today's economy, where automation and outsourcing are causing whole industries to disappear almost overnight, it's becoming more and more common for people to have to change careers multiple times throughout their lives. And while it's still not easy to do, it's no longer the taboo it once was.
In fact, career changes are now seen as a sign of adaptability and resilience, two highly prized qualities in today's workforce. So if you're considering making a change, don't be discouraged by the challenges involved. Moreover, as per the Australian Institute of Business (the largest online MBA courses provider in Australia), the average person now changes careers 12 times, with each stint lasting just over three years.
So what can you do to ensure a successful career change in 2022? Here are ten ways that will help you get started.
1. Understand the reason behind your career change
When you make a career change, the most important thing is figuring out what you want. What drives you? What motivates you? Could you see yourself doing this for the rest of your working life? Once you have a good understanding of what you’re looking for, it will be easier to narrow down your options and find a new career that’s a good fit for you.
Of course, nobody can answer these questions for you but yourself. But if you know what drives you – whether it’s money, experience, work-life balance or caring for others – then you already have a strong indicator of where you should be looking and what you should be looking for. So take some time to really think about what it is you want out of your new career, and you’ll be well on your way to finding something that’s perfect for you.
2. Make a list of jobs and finalise one
With so many options out there, it can be challenging to know where to start. The first step is to take a step back and consider what you want from your new career. Ask yourself what kind of work would make you happy and fulfilled. Once you have a good understanding of your goals, you can start narrowing down your options and choosing a career track that seems like it will help you achieve those goals. This new career will serve as your north star, something to guide you as you make the transition to a new and more satisfying phase of your professional life.
Our recruitment specialists can help you prepare for interviews (End to End Interview Guide) and offer tips (Effective CV Writing Tips & CV Template) and how to negotiate a salary. So if you're looking for a career change, don't hesitate to reach out to our Recruitment Consultants today!
3. Build some new skills and update your resume
Making a successful transition into a new career can be daunting. Not only do you need to gain new skills, but you also need to create a new resume that accurately reflects your qualifications. However, with a little planning and effort, the process can be much easier than you might think.
Start by doing some research to identify the skills that are most commonly required in your target industry. Then, take some time to update your resume to highlight any relevant experience or qualifications. If you don’t have much experience in your new field, consider taking some courses or volunteering to gain some practical skills.
You can read more about - Top 25 Skills Digital Marketing Managers should have in 2022
Finally, networking is key when it comes to finding a job in a new industry. Attend industry events and connect with people who work in your desired field.
4. Is your current company hiring for a new job role?
Companies often give preference to internal candidates when hiring for new roles. The most obvious reason is that they already know these employees and don't have to do extra background checks. You can set up a meeting with the hiring manager to discuss the role.
This is a great opportunity to learn more about the hiring process and what department managers are looking for in candidates. It's also a chance to show that you're proactive and interested in pursuing new opportunities within the company. By taking the initiative to set up this meeting, you'll demonstrate that you're a serious contender for the job and that you're willing to put in the work to get it.
5. Play the field with a freelance gig
By working on a side project, you can put your newly acquired skills to use and show off what you’ve learned to potential employers. For example, let’s say you’re trying to break into content marketing. Once you’ve picked up the requisite skills, you can develop a side project idea to show off what you’ve learned.
That might mean creating a personal blog or using a tool to create an email marketing campaign. By working on a project that is directly related to your desired career, you can gain valuable experience and make yourself more attractive to potential employers.
6. Create a LinkedIn profile and portfolio
One of the most important steps in the process is to build out your LinkedIn profile and online portfolio. LinkedIn is a great way to connect with potential employers and industry professionals. Be sure to include a strong headline, an updated resume, and links to your professional website and online portfolio.
Your portfolio should showcase your best work, highlight your skills and experience, and demonstrate your ability to produce results. By taking the time to build out a strong online presence, you'll be well on your way to making a successful career change.
7. Get a referral
The statistic saying that referred applicants are 15 times more likely to land a job than others is staggering. However, it makes sense when you think about it. After all, referred applicants come with the stamp of approval from someone who the company already trusts. This automatically gives them a leg up on other candidates.
Thus, if you’re looking for a job in a new industry, leveraging your network is a great way to go. Start by talking to friends and colleagues who work in the industry in which you’re trying to get into. Let them know that you’re looking for a job and gather any advice that you can on landing a job. With their help, you should be able to get your foot in the door and take your career to the next level.
8. Don’t settle for less
The interview process can be daunting, but it's important to remember that you have value to offer. Companies wouldn't be investing time and resources in interviewing candidates if they didn't believe there was potential for a return on their investment. The key is to do your research and be prepared to justify your worth.
Our FY 2021-22 Salary Guide & Insights talks exactly about how much you should be earning in the field of marketing, communications & digital. For salary information on Product Management & Development, check out our Product Management Salary Guide & Insights.
Take a look at average salaries in your industry, think about the skills and experience you bring to the table and be ready to discuss any relevant certifications or courses you've completed. With proper research, you'll be in a solid position to negotiate the salary you deserve.
9. Take your time
Making a career change is not easy. It takes a lot of time and effort. It takes six months to find a new job, and it can take longer if you're changing industries.
So don't get discouraged if you don't have your new job lined up right away. Instead, focus on the process and on building your skills. If you're not getting the results you want, keep working at it and keep getting better.
Remember, changing careers is a marathon, not a sprint. And as long as you keep moving forward, you'll eventually reach your goal.
10. Burst all the career change related myths from your mind
Well, it's time to burst those bubbles and set the record straight. Here are three of the most common myths about career changes - and the real truth behind them.
Myth 1: It's too late to change careers
Many people believe that once they've chosen a career path, they're stuck with it for life. But that's simply not true. It's never too late to reassess your goals and make a change. In fact, many people switch careers multiple times throughout their lives. So if you're feeling unhappy in your current role, don't despair - a new chapter could be just around the corner.
Myth 2: Career changes are expensive
Changing careers doesn't have to be expensive. Sure, there may be some upfront costs involved in retraining or relocating, but these are relatively minor compared to the long-term financial cost of staying in a job you dislike.
Myth 3: I’ll have to start again from the scratch
While it’s true that you might have to start over in some ways when you switch careers, don’t forget that you also have a lot of valuable experience to bring to the table.
If you’ve switched from a job in sales to a job in marketing, you can use your sales skills to help develop marketing strategies. Or, if you’ve left a corporate job to start your own business, you can use your knowledge of business operations to run your company effectively.
Bottom line:
Are you looking to make a career change in 2022? If so, there are many things to consider. But don’t worry – we’re here to help! Our recruitment consultants have the experience and knowledge necessary to guide you through every step of your job search.
Parity Consulting can help you find the perfect position for your skills and interests, and we’ll be with you every step of the way as you transition into your new career.
Ready to get started? Contact us today!
Email us at:info@parityconsulting.com.au
Call us at:+61 3 9923 8081, +61 2 8068 2016
Author: Vanessa Lalaniis a Division Lead at Parity Consulting but first, she is a mother, wife, bike rider, avid reader, and volunteer at Gift of Bread.