Life isn’t static, so it’s not surprising that you want to change jobs. But the question that plagues most people in this situation is, “How do I successfully change jobs?”
If this is you, you’ve come to the right place because I address it in this article.
So, without further ado, let’s look at the necessary steps to make a successful career change.
How to Successfully Change Jobs
In case you are wondering if changing jobs and a new career path are the same thing, understand that the process is largely the same.
The only difference is that if you are changing your career path, you will need more extensive work. But the methods are the same.
Now that that’s out of the way, let’s go to the business of the day.
1. Define Your Career Goals
Before you start packing up your current job, pause and ask yourself: Where exactly am I trying to go?
You need to have a defined career goal before making any drastic decision, or you might end up in the same situation you are trying to avoid.
So, make sure you know exactly what you are trying to achieve.
For instance, you may want more flexibility, better pay, or a completely new industry. You may even want more fame. But whatever it is, get specific.
That’s the only way to get a clear direction on where to start.
The clarity also helps you figure out what experience, skills, or connections you’ll need.
Plus, it keeps you from chasing just any opportunity.
For instance, when you know you want fame, you can pursue opportunities that will make you visible, and if you want flexibility, you will avoid rigid roles.
2. Do Extensive Research
One mistake many people make, especially when they are dissatisfied with their current job, is to hurry out of it. And most times, they end up in the same situation.
I want to believe you don’t just want to change jobs, you want to step into something better. So, you need a strategic plan. And you can only plan rightly when you do extensive research.
Before you even start searching, conduct research based on your career goal.
What do I need to achieve my career goals?
How do I start?
What skills are necessary?
What are the career prospects and growth potential?
Whether you are changing careers or just jobs, you still need to conduct research and prepare.
For instance, if you are seeking to change your job, I believe you are seeking a higher role. So, you need to know how to upskill to achieve that.
And if it’s a new career, you might need to learn completely new skills.
After that’s done and you are ready with all you need, you can start searching. When you do, don’t just look at job titles; dig deeper. Check for other things like:
What qualifications do they expect?
What tools and systems are commonly used in that role?
Who are the key players in that industry?
Make sure you know all these because it helps you prepare to not just land the job but also thrive in it and grow over time.
Also Read: Reasons You Are Not Making Progress in Your Career
3. Find Transferable Skills
You probably have more skills than you think; you just haven’t labelled them yet because you don’t know that your skills aren’t limited to those gathered at a formal job.
A skill is just expertise and the ability to do something well; it doesn’t matter where you learnt it. So, think about all the skills you already possess that will make you excel at the role or career path you are pursuing.
For instance, I volunteer in the transcription sub-unit of the media team in my church. My job there is to edit the transcribed sermons for style and accuracy.
Although I don’t work as an editor professionally, that’s still a transferable skill.
I am an amazing editor because I have had to do it for my own articles as well as in church. It doesn’t matter that I didn’t do it professionally to earn money.
Therefore, if I am seeking a job that requires editing skills, that’s something I already have.
So think about it: what informal things do you do well? Or what skills have you gathered over the years from informal settings?
Do you edit message transcriptions at church like me, lead small groups, organise events, manage social media for a friend’s business, manage your parents’ neighbourhood store? All those count.
You just need to learn how to translate those experiences into professional language. A good way to do that is to ask how that skill adds value to the workplace, so you know how to perfectly mention it.
But the point is that you should not downplay your informal skills; they just might increase your chances of getting your dream job.
4. Develop Required Skills
Besides transferrable skills, you also need to bridge the gap by getting the skills you lack. In most cases, except you are pivoting to a very sensitive path like medicine or law, you might not need another degree.
But you may need courses and certifications to prepare you for the new role. Even self-study sometimes works, but I will still recommend you get at least one certification just to show that you were certified.
The best part is that you don’t always have to pay for these courses; depending on the position, you may be able to find free resources online.
Also, you don’t need all the skills; just the essential ones. The vital ones are the skills that show up in multiple job descriptions. If you can get them, you are good to go.
Then, you can learn the others on the job or as you go along.
However, ultimately, it is worth investing time – and maybe a little money – into becoming a better fit. It shows you are interested in the job, and you always take the initiative to learn.
5. Update Resume/CV and Cover Letter
Your resume is not a one-size-fits-all document; it doesn’t have to look the same, especially when changing careers.
So, always tailor your resume to highlight the skills and experiences that match the job you’re aiming for. And do the same for your cover letter.
If you are really pivoting, use your cover letter to explain why, as well as all you have done to prepare for your new career path.
Remember that employers are more concerned about results than what you’ve done. So don’t just list experiences; mention how you helped where you previously worked and how you can help them.
For those changing careers, since you may not have direct experience, find a way to insert what you can do for them.
I know you might be feeling less confident, but don’t let it show. Rather, show enthusiasm, confidence, and value.
Remember that you’re essentially marketing yourself, so make it count.
6. Network with Like Minds
The job hunt can feel lonely, but you don’t have to do it alone. Surround yourself with people who are already in the field or moving in the same direction.
Your first network should be people around you who may not be in your field but are inspiring and putting in the work. Don’t surround yourself with negative and lazy people if you want to be great in life, or they may influence you.
Additionally, find people who have gone ahead in your field and can share insights, encourage you, and hold you accountable.
LinkedIn is a great place to do this. Search for people in that field, follow them for a while to see what they are about.
If you see that you share values besides just being in the same field, reach out to tell them why you would like to connect. Most people are usually welcoming when you are sincere.
However, you can only get real value from people when you are also offering value and not being a parasite.
Don’t just connect and ask for favours, also share helpful articles, give feedback, or simply show support for what they’re doing.
True networking is about relationships, not transactions. The more genuine you are, the more memorable you become. And who knows? That connection might be the one who refers you to your dream job.
Also Read: How to Further Your Career on LinkedIn
7. Apply for Jobs
Now that you’re ready, it’s time to start applying. Check different online listings and even apply to receive alerts for related jobs – most of them have those these days.
Besides that, consider cold pitching and don’t limit yourself to just online listings. Reach out directly to companies you admire, even if they’re not hiring.
Let them know what you love about their work, how you can contribute, and why you’re interested. It might feel awkward at first, but it sets you apart from the crowd.
Then, let me add that job hunting is largely a numbers game, so put yourself out there in multiple ways and stay open to opportunities.
Don’t be discouraged by the initial Nos; keep trying, someone is bound to say yes as long as you have everything in order.
8. Prepare for Interviews
Never walk into an interview unprepared; that’s not a sign of a serious candidate.
First, read up on the company, including its mission, values, recent news, and even the people interviewing you, if possible.
These will help you sound more knowledgeable and look more proactive – employers love that.
Then you need to practice common interview questions. And if you are switching, prepare for questions related to your career switch, such as, “Why are you changing paths?” or “How does your background fit this role?”
This way, you can know ahead how to tell your story confidently.
Moreover, you should practice with a friend or record yourself to spot awkward phrasing.
Finally, prepare thoughtful questions to ask them because interviews are two-way conversations, not interrogations. It will definitely give you an edge if you have something to say as well.
You need to use the interview to show them that you’re serious, prepared, and ready to bring something new to the table.
9. Be Patient and Persistent
Switching jobs, especially changing career paths, doesn’t usually happen overnight. It might take weeks, or even months, to land the right role.
You’ll face rejections, unanswered applications, and maybe even self-doubt. Despite all that, you must not quit.
Rather, keep refining your approach, keep learning, and keep showing up.
Don’t forget to celebrate your small wins as well; it encourages you to keep fighting. So when you land an interview or get good feedback, celebrate it in your own little way.
The journey might feel slow, but persistence always pays off. Stay the course, and it’ll be worth it one day.
I’m rooting for you.
Also Read: 12 Productivity Tips for Young Professionals to Stay Relevant
FAQs
1. What is the best way to switch jobs?
The best way to switch jobs is to be intentional and prepared. Start by identifying what you want from your next role, like better pay or growth opportunities. Then, update your resume, polish your LinkedIn profile, and start networking. Don’t just apply to everything; apply only to roles that align with your goals. And while you’re job hunting, don’t forget to prepare and practice before interviews.
2. How do I move from one career to another?
Moving from one career to another takes courage, clarity, and a solid game plan. First, be clear on why you are switching. Then, research your desired industry and identify the skills that overlap with your current experience. For the skills you lack, you might need to take a course, get a certification, or even volunteer to build relevant experience. Also, start connecting with people already in that space who can offer you insights, referrals, or mentorship.
3. What are the stages of career transition?
The stages of career transitions are:
- Self-reflection, where you realise your current path isn’t working and start thinking about what you really want.
- Exploration, where you research options, talk to people, and test new ideas through learning or side projects.
- Planning and Preparation, where you update your resume, build new skills, and make a job search strategy.
- Execution, where you apply, network, interview, and eventually, land a new role.
It’s a process, and it’s totally okay to move back and forth between these stages as you figure things out.
4. How do I transition to a better job?
Start by defining what “better” means to you. Once you’ve identified that, review your current skills and see how relevant they are in the job market. Then, upskill where needed, refresh your personal brand (resume, LinkedIn, portfolio), and start networking. Apply strategically, and don’t be afraid to negotiate offers. You’ve successfully transitioned when you get hired into a role that actually meets your needs.
Leave a Reply