Is it Time for a Career Change? Here’s How to Start
Let’s be honest – the idea of changing careers can be exciting… and also completely overwhelming.
Maybe your current role feels like it’s no longer the right fit. Maybe you’re craving more purpose, better work-life balance, or a whole new challenge. Or maybe you’ve just had that nagging feeling – “There’s something else I should be doing.”
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. And no, it’s not too late, not by a long shot.
Whether you’re ready to leap or just exploring the idea, a career change doesn’t have to mean starting over. It just means starting smart.
Signs It Might Be Time to Pivot
Not sure if you’re ready for a change? These signs might be worth paying attention to:
• You feel disconnected from your work or just plain bored.
• You’re constantly stressed or drained, even outside of work hours.
• Growth feels limited in your current industry or role.
• You’re more curious about what else is out there than invested in what you’re doing now.
• You keep thinking, “I can’t see myself doing this much longer.”
If any of these resonate, it could be time to seriously explore what’s next.
How to Start Exploring a Career Change
Thinking about a career shift can feel like staring at a blank page. But you don’t need all the answers right away, you just need a place to start.
Here’s how to begin:
• Reflect on what you want (and don’t want) – What parts of your current role do you enjoy? What drains you? Knowing what you’re moving away from is just as important as knowing what you’re moving toward.
• Research new industries or roles – Don’t limit yourself to what you know. Look into roles that align with your skills, values, or interests. Check out job descriptions, growth potential, required qualifications, and average salaries.
• Map your transferable skills – You likely have more relevant experience than you think. Skills like project management, communication, leadership, problem-solving, or data analysis often translate well across industries.
• Talk to people doing the work – Reach out for informal chats with professionals in roles you’re interested in. Ask about their path, challenges, and advice. It’s one of the fastest ways to learn what the job really looks like.
• Update your CV and LinkedIn – Tailor your profile to highlight transferable skills and relevant achievements. Even if you don’t have direct experience in the new field, show how your background adds value.
Mindset Matters
Career change can feel risky – especially if you’ve built years of experience in one path. But growth almost always comes with discomfort.
The good news? You don’t have to do it all at once.
This can be a series of small steps: researching, connecting, learning, tweaking your CV, not one big leap off a cliff.
Remember: clarity often comes after action, not before.
Simple Steps That Make a Big Difference
If you’re not sure where to begin, try one of these:
• Book a career coaching session.
• Take an online course in your area of interest.
• Join a professional group or networking event.
• Refresh your LinkedIn summary to reflect your new direction.
• Apply for one “stretch” job – even if you’re not 100% qualified.
Momentum builds when you start moving.
Thinking of Changing Careers? We Can Help.
Whether you’re ready to transition or just testing the waters, we’re here to support your next step.
We can help you identify your transferable skills, reframe your experience, and put together a CV that opens doors, even in a brand-new industry.
A new path is possible. And it might be closer than you think.