Planning
The secret to a successful job or career change
is to give yourself enough time to do it right. If you have been
in your current job for a while you will probably know it and
your company inside out.
When
you move to another company, to another role, perhaps into a different
field of expertise, you will not instantly be an expert. By carrying
out research into the sector and the responsibilities of the job
you will make your transition less of a culture shock.
It
is a good idea to talk to as many people as possible who currently
work in the area/job/company in which you are interested in moving
to.
They
may be able to provide you with some inside information and a
point of reference to name drop in a speculative letter of application.
Join professional associations and network, network, network.
Savvy Searching
Don't
underestimate the time and money it requires to change careers.
Even though you are not new to the job market, you still have
to employ the same job-hunting strategies as someone looking for
their first job or re-entering the job market after a long period
away.
It
has probably been a while since you last updated your CV, so allocate
so time to making it look and read well.
If
you are changing to a different career, employers, despite your
years of experience probably will view you as a relative beginner,
which, in a sense you are.
Apply
for the best positions offered, but be flexible about accepting
an entry-level position. Once you get into a company, you'll be
able to advance rapidly because of your experience in the work
world.
Salary
won't be very negotiable because of your lack of experience in
your new profession. The salary offered will not be what you made
in your last job and may not even be near it.
If
you can live on what you are offered, take it. You quickly will
become more valuable to the company than a first-time worker because
of your previous experience and will be able to command a larger
salary.
When
you are settled in your new job and enjoying your new profession,
don't relax: Start thinking of the next career move you want to
make.
Take
charge of your career change by being prepared, flexible and determined.
Don't be afraid of change and don't be afraid of taking a risk.
