Leaving any job is stressful but when you decide to not only change jobs but also change careers it is definitely a stressing situation. Good news though, you can take steps to make the transition a smooth, lucrative and rewarding experience. Below are five steps to take before ever leaving your current job that will help you in conducting a successful career move.
THINK IT THROUGH - Extensive thought should be given on the ramifications and expectations a new career. Many questions must be answered before making a decision if it going to be a successful move. These are just a few questions to get you started in contemplating a career change.
Is it the right job for you? How do you know? Have you talked with people or researched the position which you are interested in? What does your career change say to future employers about your commitment capability? What are your expectations for position growth and/or promotion? How will the new job affect your family or personal life?
Once you have reviewed your reasons for seeking a new career and have decided that this is the right decision for you, you can be confident in giving your full attention to preparing for your new career.
GET ALL YOUR DUCKS IN A ROW - Before leaving your current position, make sure you have had your resume and cover letter updated. The resume should show transferable skills that will be advantageous to your new employer and new position. These skills may include staff, budget and resource management; negotiation skills; project management capabilities and more. Your cover letter should reflect additional transferable skills and provide proof or examples of how you can contribute to the new company. Both documents should emphasize the skills and accomplishments applicable to your new career.
Securing valuable references from your current place of employment is definitely something to invest time in. Speak with the reference candidates before leaving. Let them know your career plans, ask permission to use them as a reference and prepare an outline or notes for them describing what you would like mentioned and accented during a reference call or email. Don’t leave it completely up to your references - let them know what skills, accomplishments and even examples you would like or not like them to share.
PREPARE FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER – Do you have what it takes to be successful in your new career? Before quitting your current job check into what will be expected of you in your new career. Do you need to finish school, complete a masters program, or become certified in particular skills. The more prepared you are for your new position the better you chances will be of landing you dream job. Find others in your field of choice, talk with them, expand your network and find out if there are pitfalls to watch for as you enter your new career.
If you are in a situation where you don’t have the option of staying at your current position until you are ready to make a move, an important thing to do is make sure you have a little nest egg set aside to pay for expenses between jobs. As in any situation it is a good idea to have savings for unexpected situations. Usually suggested is to set aside money equaling three months worth of expenses.
PLAN YOUR JOB SEARCH STRATEGY – Many times a career change occurs within the same industry which is easier to adjust to and can be used to your advantage. In this case, already having a strong understanding of the industry can be demonstrated on your resume, cover letter and during interviews. You have contacts throughout the industry that should be used for networking. Most jobs (some experts say as high as 80%) are found by word of mouth. The down side is making sure these contacts will be maintain your confidence throughout your search if you don’t want your current employer to know you are looking for a new career.
If you are looking for a career outside of your current industry you will need to find contacts in the new industry and work with them in locating companies that are hiring. The optimal situation would be if you are in control of your time frame, then you would have the ability to select a job you really want and have less pressure to take the first job that meets most of your requirements.
LEAVE YOUR JOB ON A POSITIVE NOTE – It is important to make every attempt to leave your current position on a positive note. As mentioned earlier, one of the main reasons is to obtain a positive reference. If someone enjoyed working with you and respected the work you performed and the way you left the company, you will be more likely to receive encouraging references. Not burning bridges may be beneficial for future work as well. You may find yourself being in contact or doing business with past employers, coworkers or staff. Employers can even be helpful and assist in your search if they are aware of your ambition to progress into a new career. And, if things don’t work out in your new career you may be looking for work again at your previous employment, if you leave in good standing it may easily be an option.
Your best approach is to think through and weigh your options; prepare yourself, your family and your career documents; and develop a concrete plan to follow, keep you motivated and moving forward in your search. Proper planning before your move will aid in making the right decisions for your future – good luck!
