10 Steps To Making A Career Change
So you have your degree and you’ve made your parent proud. Five years later at you’re work you’re bored and are ready for the next challenge. The next step is to make a career change. This is a step most people are afraid to do this because they feel a sense of loyalty to their qualification. If your one of the few brave ones, this list is a 10 step guide to how you can make it happen.
1. Stop Procrastinating
Procrastinating is the mother of all mess ups. If you keep putting it on hold it will never happen. Think of your initial plan and what motivated you at the very beginning. If you don’t, you have no one to blame but yourself and therefore you have no right to complain about your life.
2. It’s okay to be afraid
Fear is normal, but you should generate those nerves towards your success. Be more afraid of success than you are of failing. The only reason why you’re afraid is because you’re taking a risk.
3. Do your research
Do your research so that you’re sure of what you’re getting into. This way when you decide, your decision will be an informed one. Have an open mind and avoid having too high expectations. Be willing to start small and work your way up.
4. Put a plan in place
“Plan ahead, it wasn’t raining when Noah built the ark.” If you are serious about your career you will carefully plan it. Put your CV and cover letter together and use your strengths to your advantage. Think back and see what’s worked for you in the past and your failures.
5. Ask yourself the following important questions
What do I love doing? Why?
When do I feel most energized? Why?
What activities do I lose myself in? Why?
What work sparks my interest? Why?
What feels meaningful? Why?
Is this the right time? How so?
What do you value more, passion or money?
Am I willing to start from the bottom again?
6. Create a network
Attend meetings of relevant institutes and have some business cards ready to hand out. Exchange them with anyone who offers you theirs and be proactive in passing them to those you talk with. Be sure to actually get in touch with these contacts afterwards-interacting with people within your target industry is a great way to find out more about it.
7. Be realistic
There’s nothing wrong with dreaming as long as the dreams are reachable. Do things that are within your power and get help everywhere its necessary. If you don’t, you are setting yourself up for disappointment. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and will motivate you as you take this big step.
8. Set goals for yourself
A time line will help keep you on your toes and will also push to to go further than where you are without getting content. Always have the end in mind and remember why you started in the first place.
9. Do it
Now that all the ground work has been set, put it into action and do it. Action is the best solution for fear. You’ll never know if you can if you don’t do it. Let the inspiration you initially had push and drive you. No one can make it happen accept you.
10. Don’t give up
It may take a little longer, but the opportunities are out there. Just be patient, have a solid game plan, and seek out the employers that put a high value on your valuable wisdom and experience. Stay positive and persistent.
