Embracing Change: How to Navigate Career Transitions
When navigating the twists and turns of career transitions, it’s important to remind yourself that it's not just about moving forward. It's about stepping into an exciting world brimming with possibilities.
Recognizing the Need for Change
Feeling stuck? Maybe you are feeling a mismatch between your values and your current job. If you are thinking about making a job or career change, it can feel daunting and overwhelming. No one signs up to be a job seeker, and for most people, the thought of making a transition feels scary and uncomfortable.
Navigating New Horizons
Exploring new opportunities requires curiosity, courage, and an open mind. Begin by casting a wide net and researching industries and roles. Have career research conversations with people about making a career pivot. Attend networking events, join professional groups, and connect with mentors like a Life Working® career coach who can offer guidance and insights.
Related Blog: The Difference between Free and Paid Career Assessments
Fueling Your Confidence and Determination
Confidence is essential for success. Acknowledge your wins, no matter how modest, and maintain a positive self-image. If you want to act “as if” you are confident, even if you don’t feel that way, here are some tips to help:
Practice confident body language by standing tall and making eye contact.
Set small achievable goals and celebrate your successes.
Prepare and rehearse and visualize yourself succeeding.
Focus on your strengths by reflecting on your abilities and accomplishments.
Challenge negative thoughts by focusing on what could go right and visualize success.
Surround yourself with supportive people who can provide encouragement and support.
Fake it until you make it by acting as if you belong, and you’ll feel more confident over time.
Tips to Kickstart Your Career Transitions
Play to Your Strengths: Evaluate your goals, consider your values, and assess your skills to determine the career paths and opportunities that resonate with you.
Develop a Game Plan: Plot out the steps needed to make a successful career transition. Reach out to your network to gather information, seek advice, and explore potential opportunities.
Research Possible Career Moves Use employment projections from the BLS and take a look at the fastest-growing job fields, and Indeed Salaries to browse top-paying jobs and companies by industry. You can do a Google search for “average salary for (job title).” This can sometimes lead you to more specific salary data for a profession.
Here are a few websites that offer solid salary information:
Bureau of Labor and Statistics (wage data by area and occupation)
Occupational Outlook Handbook (earnings)
U.S. Office of Personnel Management Salaries & Wages (federal salary information)
Salary.com (offers free data and personalized salary reports for a fee)
Take a Skills Inventory. We offer the SkillScan™ assessment which provides a detailed report of your skills, strengths, career options, and more. What do you have? What don’t you have? Address the gaps. Explore tools like the Life Working® Career Assessment Center for tailored guidance.
Need to Add New Skills? Does your new career path require new skills? Seek advice, consider online courses, investing in professional development.
Coursera offers 7,000 free and low-cost online professional development classes. LinkedIn has classes specifically geared toward people transitioning to a new career.
Keep Smiling: Stay optimistic and focus on the opportunities ahead rather than dwelling on setbacks or uncertainties.
Celebrate Milestones: Applaud your progress, no matter how small, to stay motivated and inspired.
Related Blog: Changing Jobs or Careers: What to Consider
“Wilma went above and beyond to help me make a long-desired transition into the industry I wanted to be in. She was there to coach me through every step, including how to define my brand, set up my online/offline reputation, set up my resume, effectively network, ace the job interview, and negotiate an offer. She was always encouraging and helped me build up my confidence. I highly recommend working with Wilma and Life Working." – Satisfied Life Working® Client
At Life Working®, we understand transitions aren’t always easy. We offer personalized resume and writing services and a free consultation to help you find a meaningful career.
We're here to support you every step of the way on your journey to a new and fulfilling career!
The Life Working® Writing Services and Career Coaching Team