Do you ever feel the ‘Sunday scaries‘? Is the thought of another week at your job making you feel weary? You’re not alone. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, about four million Brits have already taken that leap and changed careers. But how do you make that change and come out on top?
Here are six simple steps to help you along the way.
1. Reflect on your ‘why?’
Founder of the Talented Ladies Club, Hannah Martin says: “I often get people to think back to when you were a child. In one of my workshops, a woman really hated her job. She worked in a basement for a micromanaging boss. When she did this exercise, it was all climbing trees, building dens. It was all outside and it was all free. She was in a job that was the opposite.”
First, think about why you want to change jobs. What makes you happy? What type of work gives you a sense of purpose? If you often feel unhappy in your current role, this could mean a change is needed. Try to remember what you loved to do as a child. Those interests might give you clues about what you want to do now.
Tip - take some time to journal your thoughts on what brings you joy and satisfaction in your work.
2. Research potential new paths
Next, look into different careers that interest you. Keep an open mind as you explore these options. Use online resources like Glassdoor to learn about various roles and industries. Talk to people who work in those fields to get a real sense of what the job is like. You might even consider volunteering to see if the work suits you before fully committing.
Tip - reach out to professionals and ask about their experiences in roles you’re curious about.
3. Gain hands-on experience
Co-Founder of the Startup School for Seniors, Suzanne Noble says: “The best time for you to [make a career switch] is when you’re still in work. A lot of people decide to make that move as a result of volunteering. The win there is about confidence building and feeling capable about making that career shift.”
If you can, try to get some hands-on experience in your new field. This could be through part-time work or even volunteering. This experience can boost your confidence and help you learn more about the industry. Remember, the skills you’ve built in your previous jobs are often useful in new careers.
Tip - look for local volunteer opportunities that align with your interests to gain relevant experience.
4. Make a financial plan
Changing jobs can affect your finances, so it’s important to plan ahead. Start by reviewing your current financial situation and consider how your job change might impact your pension contributions. Create a simple budget to see your essential expenses. Look for ways to keep earning money while you transition, like working part-time or finding grants for training.
Tip - use budgeting apps to help you track your expenses and plan for any changes in income.
5. Acquire necessary skills
Senior Software Engineer at PensionBee, Anindya Bhattacharyya says: “No employer was going to hire a Junior Programmer with zero experience, who was in his 40s, who’d been a newspaper Journalist for the past 20 years. I had to go and do the boot camp and that’s what taught me the career skills. That’s what got me the first job.”
As you prepare for your new job, consider the skills you may need to acquire. Take the time to identify which skills are essential for the roles you’re interested in. Research training options, such as online courses or local workshops, and don’t hesitate to seek help or advice from others. While learning new skills can feel challenging, remember that it’s a valuable investment in your future.
Tip - explore platforms like Coursera or Udemy for affordable online courses that can help you acquire new skills.
6. Build your support system
Changing careers can be tough, so having support makes a big difference. Surround yourself with friends and family who encourage you. Reach out to your network and let them know you’re looking for new opportunities. Take small steps, such as updating your LinkedIn profile or CV, and consider joining new training sessions.
Tip - join online communities or local groups related to your desired field for additional support and networking.
Summary
Making a career change is a big decision. With some reflection, research and a solid plan - you can find a job that fits your values and goals better. Here are the main points to remember:
- Reflect on your ‘why?’ - understand what truly motivates you.
- Research potential new paths - explore different career options and consider which of your existing skills could be transferred.
- Gain hands-on experience - look for opportunities to learn in real-world settings.
- Make a financial plan - budget for your career transition so you can maintain your standard of living.
- Acquire necessary skills - invest in learning skills relevant to your new career.
- Build your support system - surround yourself with encouraging people.
Listen to episode 38 of The Pension Confident Podcast as our expert guests share how to make a career switch at any age. You can also read the full transcript or watch the episode on YouTube.
Risk warning
As always with investments, your capital is at risk. The value of your investment can go down as well as up, and you may get back less than you invest. This information should not be regarded as financial advice.
