How to Describe Your Career Change Journey
A career change[1] involves leaving one’s current profession to pursue a new occupation[2]. This major shift is often motivated by a desire for greater fulfillment, better work-life balance, pursuing a passion, or improving salary and advancement potential. Research shows over 50% of workers consider changing careers at some point, especially millennials and Gen Z[3].
Reasons for Making a Career Change
Changing careers requires planning, preparation, and patience. Ultimately, aligning your work with your passions and priorities can lead to immense professional and personal fulfillment. With commitment and resourcefulness, a career change can open up a whole new world of possibilities.
Seeking Greater Fulfillment
Many people decide to change careers[4] because their current work lacks meaning or purpose. Feelings of being uninspired burned out, or disengaged are common motivators[5]. According to a Gallup survey[21], only 33% of employees are engaged at work. The rest feel disinterested or hostile toward their jobs. Switching to a career that better aligns with one’s values and interests is a path to greater fulfillment[22]. Jobs that allow one to help others, make a difference or express creativity tend to provide the most day-to-day satisfaction.
Need for Better Work-Life Balance
Demanding work schedules and high-stress levels contribute to poor work-life balance[6]. According to the State of the American Workplace report by Gallup, 40% of employees[23] say their job interferes with their ability to spend time with family and friends. Seeking careers with more flexibility to pursue outside interests or spend time with family is a key driver of change for many.
Pursuing a Passion
Many people dream of turning a hobby, talent, or passion into a full-time career[7] . According to a PayScale survey, over 70% of people with artistic, musical, or athletic jobs consider them their “dream job[24].” Mid-life career changes to pursue lifelong passions in areas like music, art, writing, or sports are increasingly common.
Improving Salary and Advancement Potential
Feeling stuck without job security, earnings growth, or promotion opportunities motivates many to find new careers with better compensation and faster advancement[8]. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, higher wages are a top reason[25] older workers change occupations. Workers may leave stifling environments lacking upward mobility for fields where their skills are more valued and leadership roles are possible.
How to Prepare for the Transition
Research New Field Extensively
Thoroughly investigating qualifications, skills needed, work duties, company cultures, and other aspects of a new career is crucial prep work[9]. Resources include:
- The OOH Occupational Outlook Handbook[26] – profiles hundreds of occupations.
- Professional/trade associations[27] – provide career info, job boards, and networking.
- Informational interviews[28]– talk to people working in the field.
- Job shadowing[29] – observe professionals on the job.
Take Necessary Training or Education
Often a career change requires extra training, certifications, workshops, or even college degrees to gain credentials[10]. Returning to school full or part-time shows commitment. Conferences and online courses also build skills.
- Enroll part-time in a degree program[30] tailored to the new career.
- Take advantage of MOOCs[31]for convenient skills training.
- Attend seminars, conferences[32], and workshops[33] to build up expertise.
Update Your Portfolio and Resume
Showcasing transferable skills and results tailored to the new target field is crucial. Portfolios[11]displaying relevant work samples or projects will strengthen chances. Revamp your resume using applicable keywords[35].
Grow Your Network
Expanding professional connections in the desired industry, including through LinkedIn and informational interviews, provides valuable insights and relationships[12].
Making a Strong Career Change Resume and Cover Letter
Resume Tips
- Lead with a Career Summary[13] instead of an Objective to explain the career change.
- In the Experience section, quantify achievements from old roles that translate, focusing on transferable skills[36].
- List relevant skills, certifications, knowledge, and achievements at the top. See career change resume examples[37].
Cover Letter Tips
- Clearly state the new job or field sought in the first paragraph of the cover letter.
- Provide a narrative in the body paragraphs explaining your reasons for changing careers, maintaining a positive tone.
- Close the letter by expressing enthusiasm for the new career direction[38] and your fit for the role.
Acing the Career Change Interview
Prepare a Good Answer for “Why Did You Make This Change?”
Show the move is driven by passion, not desperation. Emphasize transferable background assets. See strategies at TopInterview[15].
- Emphasize being driven by passion and interest[39], not desperation or instability.
- Explain how your background is an asset that enables you to add unique value to the new role[40].
- Share examples of relevant transferable skills gained from your experience.
Ask Insightful Questions About the Company and Role
Asking smart questions displays genuine interest and enthusiasm[16]for the opportunity.
- Ask thoughtful questions to convey a sincere curiosity about the industry and the position.
- Inquire about challenges, team dynamics, training, etc. to show you want to add value.
- Research the company beforehand to ask informed, specific questions.
Convey Flexibility, Enthusiasm, and Willingness to Learn
Highlight adaptable skillsets from both old and new fields. Demonstrate excitement for change and commitment to quick learning[17] on the job. Emphasize your passion, initiative, and ability to solve problems.
Successfully Onboarding in Your New Career
Be Patient With the Learning Curve
- Understanding mastery takes time when changing fields. Allow yourself time to get up to speed.
- Absorb feedback from colleagues and keep sharpening your skills. Set small milestones[18].
Build Strong Relationships
- Get to know colleagues personally and seek out mentors who can advise you.
- Become part of the team and understand the organizational culture[19].
Maintain a Positive Attitude Through Challenges
Change can be tough, but stay focused on goals. Remember your motivations and embrace opportunities[20].
- Change can be tough, but stay focused on your goals and motivations.
- Remember why you made the shift and embrace new opportunities[20]. for growth.
- Ask for help when needed and believe in your abilities. Here is relevant information filled in for the Conclusion heading:
Conclusion
Changing careers requires extensive planning, preparation, and perseverance. Key ways to smoothly navigate the transition include:
- Take time to thoroughly research different fields to find the best fit based on your skills, interests, and values.
- Gaining any required new credentials or training to make yourself marketable.
- Perfecting your resume, cover letter and interview skills to stand out as a career switcher.
- Building connections in your new field by networking both online and in person.
- Having realistic expectations and being patient during the onboarding process at a new job. With drive, preparation, and resilience, you can successfully change careers and find new professional opportunities tailored to your evolving passions, priorities, and skills.
