When it comes to your career, there is always time to change your mind and head in a different direction. There is no reason that you have to stay in a career that either doesn’t fulfill you or that you just don’t love. To change career, though, you’ve got to figure out the steps you need to take so that you can start steering yourself towards a new path.
Think About What You Want To Do
The first thing that you’re going to have to do is think about what you want to do. There is no use in doing something else that you don’t think you’re going to like, so before you make any changes sit down and think about what direction you want to go.
If you’re stuck between a few options, narrow it down to two. Once you’ve done this, write each one on a piece of paper, put them in a hat, jumble them up and pick one out.
This will tell you which path to follow.
But here’s the catch.
If you feel that dropping sensation when you read the page, or you feel disappointed in any way, then go with the other option as it’s what you wanted all along.
Expand Your Options with Education
Successful people never stop learning – and this is especially important if you decide to make a career change.
Your future employers need to see that you are dedicated to your new career path. For example, if a Public Relations Manager is your dream job, take a public relations program. If you just apply for jobs with no background in the field, no experience, no education and no references, then you’re not going to get very far in the application process.
Furthering your education is also a great way to begin to build your network.
Talk to people who work in the field and find out what they think is best in terms of education. Some companies want you to work and study at the same time, and others want you to have the education first. Try to pick a firm you want to work for, and see what they would require of you.
It’s About Who You Know
Your network is key to career success – especially if you’re changing direction is’t important to make connections. Knowing people in the industry is going to be a big help when you are changing careers. The higher up in the industry they are, the better, but it doesn’t matter who because getting your foot in the door is what matters most.
But make sure your connections are genuine. Simply connecting on LinkedIn won’t then lead to someone vouching for you in a job interview. Work on cultivating your connections by sharing information, helping out when needed and creating a positive connection.
Changing your career path can be scary – and exciting. But being sure of your direction and building the roadmap to success will help you stay on track. Good luck!
