Written by: Jeff Altman, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Changing careers can be a daunting but rewarding journey. I've guided countless individuals in successful career transitions. In this article, I'll share 10 steps to researching a new career that goes beyond the usual advice you'll find on the first page of a Google search.
Step 1: Self-assessment – The foundation of a successful career transition
Before you embark on a journey to a new career, it's vital to understand yourself thoroughly. Self-assessment involves introspection and analysis, enabling you to make informed decisions about your future path. This process goes far beyond the traditional "know thyself" concept, delving into various aspects:
Values and Passions: Begin by identifying your core values and passions. What truly motivates you? What gives you a sense of purpose and fulfillment? Make a list of your most important values, such as creativity, autonomy, helping others, or financial security. This will help you align your new career with what matters most to you.
Skills and Talents: Take an inventory of your skills and talents. What are you naturally good at, and which skills have you developed over the years? These skills can be transferable to your new career or may require enhancement through training and education.
Interests and Hobbies: Sometimes, our hobbies and interests can provide insights into potential career paths. What activities do you enjoy outside of work? These interests can guide you toward a more fulfilling career in a field that aligns with your personal preferences.
Personality and Work Style: Consider your personality type and work preferences. Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Do you thrive in structured or flexible work environments? Understanding your work style can help you choose a career that complements your personality.
Life Goals: Reflect on your long-term life goals. Where do you see yourself in five, ten, or twenty years? How does your career fit into these goals? Your career should be a means to achieve your life objectives.
Feedback from Others: Seek feedback from friends, family, and colleagues. Sometimes, those close to you can provide valuable insights into your strengths and areas for improvement. They may see qualities in you that you've overlooked.
Cultural and Ethical Considerations: Consider cultural and ethical factors. Are there aspects of either that are crucial to you in your career choice? Understanding how your values align with the values of your potential career field is essential for long-term satisfaction.
Challenges and Fears: Be honest about the challenges and fears associated with changing careers. Identifying and addressing these obstacles early will help you prepare for the transition effectively.
Remember a self-assessment is an ongoing process. As you explore your interests and experiences, your self-awareness may evolve. Engaging in activities like journaling, meditation, or discussions with a career coach like me can aid this exploration.
Step 2: Define your goals - setting the course for your career transition
In any career transition, setting clear and well-defined goals is akin to plotting your course on a map before embarking on a trip. These goals serve as your guiding star, helping you navigate through the challenges and uncertainties of changing careers. Let's explore how to define your career transition goals effectively:
Clarity is Key: Start by being as specific and clear as possible about what you want to achieve in your new career. Consider the following aspects: Job Role: What is your desired position or job title in the new field? Industry or Sector: Which industry or sector are you targeting? Location: Where would you prefer to work? Salary and Benefits: What are your financial expectations? Work-Life Balance: What kind of work-life balance are you aiming for?
Short-Term and Long-Term Goals: Distinguish between short-term and long-term goals. Short-term goals may involve acquiring certain skills or certifications, while long-term goals could be reaching a particular level within your new career.
Measurable Goals: Make your goals measurable so that you can track your progress. For instance, if you want to become a project manager in a new industry, set measurable milestones such as obtaining a project management certification within six months.
Realistic and Achievable: While it's important to be ambitious, your goals should also be realistic. Consider your current qualifications, experience, and the industry's requirements. Striking the right balance between ambition and realism is crucial.
Alignment with Values: Make sure your career goals align with your core values and passions, as identified during the self-assessment step). This alignment will make your new career more fulfilling and satisfying.
Timeframe: Assign a timeframe to your overall goal and each one. Having deadlines creates a sense of urgency and accountability. It helps you stay on track.
Plan B and Adaptability: Recognize that career transitions may not always go as planned. Be prepared with a Plan B in case your initial path encounters unexpected obstacles. Adaptability is a valuable skill in career transitions.
Get Professional Guidance: If you're uncertain about your goals or how to define them, consider consulting a career coach like me who can provide insights and help you refine your objectives.
Break Goals into Smaller Steps: Divide your overarching career goals into smaller, actionable steps. This makes the transition process more manageable. For instance, if your goal is to become a data analyst, steps might include enrolling in a relevant course, gaining experience through internships, and building a strong portfolio.
Review and Adjust Regularly: Periodically review and adjust your goals as your career transition progresses. It's normal for your aspirations to evolve as you gain more insights and experience in your new field.
Defining your career transition goals is a dynamic and adaptive process. It's crucial to revisit and revise your goals as needed to ensure they stay aligned with your changing circumstances and aspirations. These goals provide the roadmap for your journey into a new career, offering you a sense of direction and motivation throughout the transition.
Step 3: Networking – forge connections and relationships on the path to a new career
Networking is not about collecting business cards or connecting on LinkedIn; it's about cultivating meaningful relationships that can help you transition into a new career. Here's how you can strategically build and leverage your network:
Define Your Networking Goals: Start by setting clear objectives for your networking efforts. Are you looking for advice, mentorship, job leads, or industry insights? Knowing what you need and want will guide your interactions.
Leverage Your Existing Network: Begin with the people you already know. Friends, family, former colleagues, and acquaintances can provide valuable introductions and recommendations. Tell them about your career transition plans and ask for their support.
Online Networking: Platforms like LinkedIn are invaluable for online networking. Optimize your profile to reflect your new career aspirations. Connect with professionals in your target industry and engage in relevant discussions.
Attend Industry Events: Participate in conferences, seminars, webinars, and meetups related to your new field. These events are excellent opportunities to meet industry experts, potential mentors, and like-minded individuals.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals in your desired field and request informational interviews. These interviews are not job interviews but rather opportunities to learn about the industry, gain insights, and build relationships.
Professional Associations: Join industry-specific professional associations or organizations pertinent to your new role or field. These groups often offer networking events, educational resources, and opportunities to interact with experienced professionals.
Volunteer and Community Engagement: Volunteering or getting involved in community projects related to your new career can be an excellent way to network. It allows you to connect with individuals who share your interests.
Social Media Groups and Forums: Join online forums and groups related to your target industry. Engage in discussions, ask questions, and share your knowledge to establish your presence and credibility.
Follow Up and Stay Connected: After making new contacts, follow up with a thank-you note or message. Maintaining regular contact with your network is key. Share your progress and offer support in return.
Give Before You Receive: Networking is a two-way street. Don't approach it solely with a "What can I get?" mindset. Offer your assistance and knowledge to others in your network. Building genuine relationships is about mutual benefit.
Mentorship: Seek out potential mentors who can provide guidance and insights based on their experience in your new field. Mentorship can be an invaluable resource during a career transition.
Network Diversely: Don't limit your network to only those in your target industry. Diverse connections can offer fresh perspectives and unexpected opportunities. A diverse network can help you adapt and thrive in a new career. Remember, people outside your target industry may know people in it. Talk to everyone!
Manage Your Online Presence: Ensure your online presence is professional and aligned with your new career goals. Share relevant content and showcase your expertise to attract the right connections.
Build Your Elevator Pitch: Craft a concise and compelling elevator pitch that effectively introduces you and your career transition goals. It should clearly convey who you are, your strengths, and your aspirations.
Effective networking is not just about quantity, particularly involving a career change, but quality. Cultivate relationships that are genuine and mutually beneficial. Through these connections, you'll gain the support, advice, and opportunities you need to successfully transition careers.
Step 4: Skill gap analysis – Bridging the divide between your current and future career
Transitioning into a new career often involves acquiring new skills or enhancing existing ones. A skill gap analysis is the process of identifying the skills you currently possess and those required in your desired career. This step is essential for a successful transition. Here's how to approach it:
Start with a Skills Inventory: Begin by creating a comprehensive list of your current skills. These can be both hard skills (technical, specific to a job or industry) and soft skills (interpersonal, communication, problem-solving).
Research Your Target Career: Thoroughly research your desired career to understand the skills and qualifications needed. Job descriptions, industry websites, and conversations with professionals in the field can provide valuable insights.
Identify Transferable Skills: Not all of your current skills will be irrelevant in your new career. Identify the transferable skills that can be applied effectively. For example, project management skills or strong communication abilities can be valuable in various fields.
Prioritize Skills: Prioritize learning the skills you need to acquire for your new career. Some may be more critical than others. Focus on the essentials to avoid spreading yourself too thin.
Education and Training: Determine whether formal education or training is necessary. This might involve pursuing a degree, enrolling in a certification program, or taking online courses. Evaluate the time and financial commitment required for such training. Not all skill development requires formal education. You can learn a great deal informally through books, online resources, and practical experience. Explore free or low-cost educational options.
Mentorship and Guidance: Look for advice from professionals in your desired career. They can provide insights into the most valuable skills and offer recommendations for skill development. Don’t just the advice from one person. Seek advice from several people and look for common recommendations and act on those.
Skill Development Plan: Create a plan for acquiring the necessary skills. This plan should include timelines, resources, and specific actions to take. Break the process into manageable steps.
Practice and Apply Them: Learning skills is only part of the process. You must also apply them. Consider projects, internships, or volunteer work to gain hands-on experience and build your skillset.
Feedback and Assessment: Regularly seek feedback on your skill development. Assess your progress and make adjustments to your skill gap analysis and development plan as needed.
Networking for Skill Acquisition: Your network can be a valuable resource for skill development. Connect with professionals who can provide guidance, mentorship, or even recommend learning resources.
Stay Up to Date: Skills requirements in many fields evolve. Stay current on industry trends and changing skill demands to remain competitive in your new career.
Celebrate Successes: Recognize and celebrate your achievements along the way. Successfully acquiring new skills is a big deal!
Remember that skill gap analysis is not a one-time process. It's an ongoing journey throughout your career transition. As you progress and gain more insight into your new field, you may identify additional skills to develop or refine.
This step is instrumental in ensuring that you are well-prepared to excel in your new career. It bridges the divide between your current skill set and the requirements of your desired profession, making your transition smoother and more successful.
Step 5: Online research – Unearthing insights about your new career
We have unprecedented access to information, making online research an indispensable tool for anyone considering a career transition. Here's how to effectively harness the power of online research with your career transition:
Industry Overview: Start by obtaining a comprehensive overview of your target industry. Search for reputable sources that provide insights into the industry's size, growth, major players, and key trends. Industry-specific websites, associations, and reports are invaluable.
Job Market Analysis: Analyze the job market within your chosen field. Look for data on job openings, demand for specific roles, and the geographical distribution of opportunities. Government labor reports and job search websites can be useful tools.
Professional Associations: Explore professional associations or organizations related to your new career. These often provide valuable resources, including industry news, networking events, and research reports.
Company Research: If you have specific companies in mind, delve into their websites and online profiles. Learn about their culture, values, and current job openings. Understanding the companies you're interested in can guide your application and interview preparations.
LinkedIn and Social Media: LinkedIn is very powerful for professional networking and research. Follow relevant companies, join industry groups, and connect with professionals in your desired field. Twitter and Facebook can also provide insights and connections.
Educational Resources: Many universities and educational institutions offer free or low-cost online courses related to various industries. These can be excellent for skill development and gaining industry-specific knowledge.
Online Forums and Communities: Look for online forums, discussion boards, and social media groups dedicated to your target industry. Engage in discussions, ask questions, and learn from the experiences of others.
Blogs, Podcasts and YouTube channels: Seek out industry-specific blogs, Yo0uTube channels and podcasts. Many professionals share their expertise and experiences through these mediums, offering practical insights and advice.
News and Publications: Stay updated with industry news and publications. Subscribe to trade magazines, journals, and newsletters relevant to your new career. They often provide in-depth analysis and information on the latest developments.
Reviews and Testimonials: Read reviews and testimonials from people working in your desired field. This can provide a realistic perspective on the pros and cons of the career, as well as insights into the day-to-day experiences of those in the industry. Remember, some sites have hotheads voicing complaints and company employees advocating. Look for the more textured posts between the extremes.
Market Research Reports: For a deeper understanding of industry trends and opportunities, consider purchasing or accessing market research reports. These reports often provide extensive data and analysis.
Competitive Analysis: Study your competition. Identify professionals who are currently successful in your target career. Analyze their career paths and skills.
Legal and Regulatory Information: Some industries are subject to specific regulations and licensing requirements. Ensure you understand any legal aspects relevant to your new career.
Online Courses and Certifications: Research online courses and certifications that can help you acquire the skills necessary for your new career. Compare different providers, costs, and course content.
Scams and Red Flags: Be aware of online scams and fraudulent job opportunities. Research companies and job postings to ensure they are legitimate. Too good to be true is a good way of alerting yourself to a possible scam.
Effective online research is an ongoing process. As you progress in your career transition, continue to gather insights and adapt your strategies based on the information you uncover. This research will empower you to make informed decisions, build a strong foundation in your new career, and stay ahead of industry developments.
Step 6: Resume and cover letter tailoring – Crafting a winning first impression
When transitioning to a new career, your resume and cover letter become your primary tools for showcasing your qualifications and convincing potential employers that you're a perfect fit. Tailoring these documents is crucial. Here's how to do it effectively:
For Your Resume:
Relevant Experience: Prioritize the most relevant work experiences for your new career. While you should include your past roles, emphasize those aspects of your current and past jobs that align with your target industry.
Transferable Skills: Clearly highlight transferable skills. Identify skills from your previous career that can be applied in the new one. Skills like project management, leadership, communication, or problem-solving are often transferable.
Keyword Optimization: Tailor your resume by including keywords and phrases relevant to your new career. Use industry-specific terms and job titles to make your resume stand out to applicant tracking systems (ATS) and hiring managers.
Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, quantify your achievements. Use specific numbers, percentages, or metrics to demonstrate your impact and success in your previous roles.
Education and Certifications: Mention any relevant education, certifications, or training you've completed to prepare for your new career. Highlight coursework or certifications that directly relate to the industry.
Professional Summary or Branding Statement: Consider adding a professional summary or branding statement that encapsulates your strengths, skills, and the value you bring to your new career. It's a concise pitch for why you're the right candidate.
For Your Cover Letter:
Customization: Each cover letter should be tailored to the specific job and company you're applying to. Address the hiring manager by name whenever possible, and mention the job title and company in the opening paragraph.
Explaining the Transition: In the opening or second paragraph, briefly explain your career transition. Mention your motivation and the steps you've taken to prepare for this change.
Relevance: Emphasize your relevant skills and experiences early in the cover letter. Connect your past experiences to the requirements of the new role and highlight the transferable skills.
Why You're a Fit: Explain why you're a good fit for the company and role. Share how your unique background can benefit them.
Show Passion: Showcase your passion for the new career and the specific position. Discuss what excites you about the role and how your skills will contribute to the company's success.
Examples and Evidence: Provide specific examples of how your skills and experiences are relevant. Mention achievements and outcomes that demonstrate your ability to excel in the new career.
Close with Confidence: In the closing paragraph, express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to discuss your qualifications further in an interview. Thank the employer for considering your application and that you will follow up in 2 business days if you don’t hear from them.
Professional Tone: Maintain a professional and positive tone throughout the cover letter. Keep it concise, typically no more than 3-4 paragraphs in length.
Remember that both your resume and cover letter are living documents. Tailor them for each application, addressing the specific requirements and culture of the company you're applying to. Careful tailoring increases your chances of progressing to the interview stage.
If you have any specific questions or need further guidance on tailoring your resume and cover letter for your career transition, please feel free to ask.
Step 7: Online courses and certifications – Build expertise for your new career
In today's rapidly evolving job market, particularly for career changers, continuous learning is essential. Online courses and certifications can be your ticket to gaining the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career transition.
Identify Key Skills: Start by identifying the key skills and qualifications required for your new career. Carefully review job postings and industry-specific resources to pinpoint in-demand competencies.
Choose Reputable Platforms: Look for well-established and reputable online learning platforms. Some popular options include Coursera, edX, LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, and Khan Academy. These platforms offer a wide range of courses in various subjects.
Free and Paid Courses: Many platforms offer both free and paid courses. Evaluate your budget and choose accordingly. Keep in mind that investing in your education is an investment in your future career.
Course Selection: Select courses that align with your career goals. Consider both introductory and advanced courses, depending on your current knowledge level. Focus on courses that are directly related to your target field.
Reviews and Ratings: Before enrolling in a course, read reviews and check ratings. This can provide insights into the quality and effectiveness of the course.
Instructor Credibility: Consider the qualifications and experience of the course instructors. Courses taught by industry experts or professors tend to be more valuable. Research the instructor's background to ensure they are credible.
Flexibility and Schedule: Many online courses allow you to learn at your own pace, which can be advantageous if you're working while studying. Some don’t. Know what you can and cannot do.
Interactive Learning: Some courses offer interactive elements such as quizzes, assignments, and forums for discussion. These can enhance your learning experience and help you apply your knowledge.
Certificates and Credentials: Upon completing a course, you often receive a certificate or credential. These can be valuable additions to your resume and LinkedIn profile.
Continuous Learning: Be prepared for a lifelong learning journey. Your initial courses may be just the beginning. Industries evolve, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies is essential for career growth.
Networking Opportunities: Online courses often have a community of learners. Engage with your peers, ask questions, and participate in discussions. Networking within the course can lead to valuable connections in your new field.
Combining Multiple Sources: Don't limit yourself to a single platform or course. Consider a combination of courses, certifications, and resources to gain a well-rounded education in your new career.
Practice and Application: As you learn, apply your knowledge through projects, internships, or personal initiatives. Practical experience can reinforce your learning and make your skills more marketable. Offering to do projects for free while enhance your experiences and give you confidence for interviews and work.
Stay Motivated: Maintain a consistent study schedule and stay motivated. Remember your career transition goals and the skills you're acquiring to achieve them.
Online courses and certifications are powerful tools for building expertise and credibility in your new career. They can help you bridge the gap between your current skills and the qualifications required in your desired field. Keep in mind that learning is a continuous process, and your commitment to professional development is an asset as you navigate your career transition.
Step 8: Volunteer or intern – Obtain real-world experience for a seamless transition
Volunteering or interning in the field you are considering is an opportunity to bridge the gap between your existing skills and the demands of your desired work. Here's how to make the most of this step:
Identify Opportunities: Research organizations, associations, nonprofits, or companies related to your new career that offer volunteer or internship opportunities. Consider both paid and unpaid positions. If you are not working, consider working full-time for them. If you are working, find a way to do part time work.
Networking: Leverage your network to find leads for potential opportunities. Friends, family, colleagues, and mentors may have connections or recommendations for you. Remember, this may take time. Don’t expect instant results.
Professional Organizations: Check with professional associations and industry-specific organizations in your target field. They often have resources or listings for internships or volunteer work.
Tailor Your Approach: Customize your applications, inquiries, and conversations to highlight your passion for the industry, your willingness to learn, as well as transferable skills. Explain your career transition journey and how the experience will benefit both you and the organization.
Transferable Skills: Remember to emphasize your transferable skills when networking or applying. Showcase the skills and experiences from your previous career that are relevant and useful to the new role.
Flexibility: Be open to different types of opportunities. Part-time or project-based roles can provide valuable experience for what it is really like to work in your new field.
Research the Organization: Before applying, research the organization you're interested in. Speak with people who work for them to find out how it aligns with your career goals.
Prepare for Interviews: Just as you would for a job interview in your current type of work, prepare for interviews with potential volunteer or internship hosts. Be ready to discuss your motivations, your skills, and what you hope to learn during your experience.
Skill Acquisition: Make the most of your time by actively looking for opportunities to apply your new skills and knowledge plus continue to learn through the work. Ask for additional responsibilities and take on tasks that stretch your abilities.
Networking on the Job: While interning or volunteering, take the opportunity to network with colleagues, supervisors, and industry professionals. Building relationships can open doors to future opportunities.
Ask for Feedback: Ask for regular feedback from your supervisors and mentors and use it to improve and demonstrate your dedication to personal and professional growth.
Build a Portfolio: Document your achievements, projects, and contributions during your internship or volunteer work. Ask yourself “What did I do this week? What did I learn?” Write it down and create a portfolio of your work that can serve as evidence of your practical experience.
Get Recommendations: At the end of your experience, request recommendations or references from your supervisors. These endorsements can enhance your credibility when applying for paid positions. Ask for them on your LinkedIn profile!
Stay Committed: Commit to your volunteer or internship role and demonstrate your enthusiasm. Do everything world-class. Employers value people who are proactive, dedicated, and passionate.
Transition to Paid Roles: If your performance is exceptional, ask about paid positions within the organization or use your newfound experience to secure paid roles elsewhere.
Remember that the goal of volunteering or interning is not just to gain experience but also to confirm your interest in the work to yourself as well as demonstrate your commitment to your new career and your ability to contribute meaningfully. It's an opportunity to learn, network, and build a practical foundation for your transition.
Step 9: Mentorship – Get wisdom and perspective from experienced guides
Mentorship is a powerful resource when changing careers because it allows you to benefit from the wisdom and experience of someone who has already walked the path you're on. Here's how to make the most of mentorship during your career transition:
Identify Potential Mentors: Choose people who are experienced in your desired field. Look for mentors who have successfully transitioned into the same or a similar career or have extensive knowledge of the industry.
Networking and Referrals: Leverage your professional network and connections to find potential mentors. Ask colleagues, friends, or acquaintances for recommendations or introductions.
Professional Organizations: Join professional organizations or associations related to your target field. Many organizations offer mentorship programs or can connect you with experienced professionals.
Online Platforms: Online platforms like LinkedIn have features that allow you to connect with potential mentors. Look for experienced professionals in your industry and send personalized requests to connect.
Clarity in Your Objectives: Before reaching out to potential mentors, be clear about your career transition objectives. Understand what you hope to achieve through mentorship and what specific guidance or support you need. Be flexible about the amount of time you want your mentor to be available to you. They have work and a life to live, too, and are doing a favor for you.
Personalize Your Approach: When approaching potential mentors, be specific about why you are reaching out to them. Explain your career transition and what you admire or respect about their background or expertise.
Mutual Benefits: Frame mentorship as a mutually beneficial relationship. It's not just about taking; it's also about what you can offer in return. Be open to sharing your skills or assisting your mentor in any way you can including doing some work on the side for them
Set Clear Expectations: Once they agree to a mentorship relationship, clarify your expectations and goals. Discuss the frequency of your interactions, preferred communication channels, and any specific areas of focus.
Learn Actively: During your mentorship, approach each interaction as an opportunity to learn. Ask questions, seek guidance, and actively apply the advice and insights you receive.
Feedback and Accountability: Encourage your mentor to provide constructive feedback and hold you accountable for your career transition goals. A good mentor will challenge you to grow and progress.
Regular Check-Ins: Maintain regular communication with your mentor. Keep them up-to-date on your progress, challenges, and achievements. Your mentor can offer guidance and support.
Diverse Perspectives: Consider having multiple mentors or advisors with different perspectives. This can provide a broader range of insights and guidance.
Respect Boundaries: Respect your mentor's time and boundaries. Be considerate of their schedule and understand that their availability may vary.
Express Gratitude: Show appreciation for your mentor's guidance and support. Express your gratitude through words and actions, such as a thank-you note or small tokens of appreciation.
Mentorship is a dynamic relationship that can significantly accelerate your career transition. It provides a sounding board for your ideas, helps you avoid common pitfalls, and connects you with valuable resources and networks in your new field.
Step 10: Join professional associations – Tapping into a valuable resource network
Professional associations offer a structured way to connect with experts and peers in your desired industry and/or career, stay informed about trends, and access resources that can facilitate your career transition. Here's how to effectively leverage professional associations during your journey:
Identify Relevant Associations: Research and identify professional associations or organizations related to your target field or career. These may vary by industry. There might be regional, national, or international organizations to choose from.
Membership Benefits: Carefully review the benefits of membership for each association. These can include access to industry-specific publications, conferences, networking events, webinars, job boards, and professional development opportunities.
Cost and Commitment: Evaluate the costs and commitment associated with each association. Ensure it aligns with your budget and career goals.
Local and National Chapters: Many associations have local chapters that host events and provide networking opportunities. Consider joining both the national or international association as well as a local chapter if available.
Events and Conferences: Participate in events and conferences hosted by the association. These gatherings are excellent opportunities to network, learn from industry experts, and stay current with the latest trends and developments.
Online Resources: Explore the online resources provided by the association, such as webinars, forums, and industry-specific publications. These can be valuable sources of information and networking.
Networking Opportunities: Actively engage in networking events and forums within the association. Build relationships with professionals who can offer guidance, mentorship, and potential job leads.
Volunteer and Leadership Roles: Consider volunteering for leadership roles within the association, such as serving on committees or boards. This can enhance your visibility and provide opportunities to contribute to the industry.
Continuing Education: Many associations offer opportunities for continuing education, such as certification programs, workshops, and online courses. These can help you acquire the skills and knowledge needed for your new career as well as provide continuing education credits that you will need to maintain a certification.
Access to Job Boards: Explore job boards or career centers provided by the association. These job listings cater to professionals in your field, making them a valuable resource for you.
Mentorship Programs: Some associations offer formal or informal mentorship programs. Participating in these programs can connect you with experienced professionals who can guide your career transition.
Stay Informed: Regularly check association publications, newsletters, and industry journals to stay informed about the latest news and trends. Being up-to-date can make you more marketable to potential employers.
Professional Development: Take advantage of professional development opportunities. This may include workshops, seminars, and certification programs that can enhance your qualifications.
Collaborative Projects: Associations often engage in collaborative projects or research initiatives. Participating in these can help you gain practical experience and expand your network.
Leverage Your Membership: Mention your association memberships on your resume and LinkedIn profile. It demonstrates your commitment to the industry and can catch the attention of potential employers.
Joining professional associations can be a wise investment in your career transition. It provides access to a network of professionals, resources, and opportunities that can significantly accelerate your journey into a new field. Remember to actively engage with the association's offerings to make the most of your membership.
These 10 steps will help you research your new career. Remember, changing careers is a significant decision that requires patience and persistence. It's not just about finding a job; it's about finding a path that aligns with your passion and purpose.
I believe this article provides a step-by-step guide into the career transition process. Feel free to reach out to book a paid coaching session here if you need advice or coaching during your transition.
Good luck!
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Jeff Altman, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine People hire Jeff Altman to give them no bs job search advice and coaching globally because he makes getting a job much easier for people. He has written 11 books and guides to job search and hiring including "The Ultimate Job Interview Framework" and "The Right Answers to Tough Interview Questions” and is the host of No BS Job Search Advice Radio, the 1 podcast in Apple Podcasts for job search with more than 2600 episodes, as well as JobSearchTV.com on YouTube.
