Here's Four Things to Consider If a Career Change Sounds Appealing

One of the most common discussions I have with clients approaching midlife is about their satisfaction with work. While following a career path seems like a no-brainer after college, it can feel stifling to be following the same path in your forties or fifties. Especially if you’re feeling burned out. That’s why a career change often sounds like the solution to overall dissatisfaction when it comes to work life.

I, myself, have changed careers multiple times in my life. Being open to reinvention allows us to roll with whatever life tosses at us with both grit and grace. And I’m here to tell you, my dear, that reinventing yourself at any age may be the spark you need to go from feeling bored bored and unhappy with your life to not only appreciating your daily life, but a deeper sense of satisfaction with your everyday life.

Here’s four things to consider if reinventing yourself through a career change sounds appealing to you:

One – Trust Your Gut to Change Careers by Taking a Leap of Faith

Jumping into new waters can be pretty scary. This might be especially true if you have been in the same job role, or with the same company for a number of years. The job market may have changed considerably, or you may be rusty on how exactly you go about getting a new job.

Two – Be Willing to Listen to Advice from Others if You Want to Change Careers

Finding the confidence to get yourself out there and start looking for a new career can be a big step, but there are people who may be able to help you. Make an appointment to see a recruitment consultant to see what type of vacancies they have on offer. They will be able to match your skillset with a role that they may have.

If you are thinking of trying something completely new, you may want to look into taking a course and retraining. Speak with your local college or university and see what options they have, you may be able to study part time alongside your next job.

Three – Take Courage by the Horns and Apply to Just Apply

Once you have an idea of the types of jobs that you want to apply for, the next stage is actually to get out there and look for them. When you apply, try, and focus on your transferable skills that are relevant to this role.

It can be very daunting going for a role in a completely new sector, and you will need to make your experience stand out. You may well be up against applicants that have the relevant experience for the role, so you need to be able to demonstrate that you are adaptable, and have lots of skills that may also be useful.

Four – Prep for that Interview When You Want to Change Care

It can be hard to know what to expect in an interview when you’ve not had one for several years. They are, however, nothing for you to worry about. Be sure and do plenty of research into the company you are applying to before your interview. Try and have some questions prepared ready for when you get the opportunity to ask any.

You may find that employers will ask questions for cultural fit. Getting this right is as beneficial for you, as it is for them. These questions are designed to test to see whether you will thrive, or drown when immersed in the work culture. It’s in both of your best interests that you swim.

If you are asked to give examples, give a full answer that includes the situation, what you did to remedy the problem and the result.

One thing I want to remind you of is this: changing careers is no guarantee to being happier.

Because, of course, no matter where you go, there you are. However, I also want you to know that a career change can be just the spark you need to find a better level of satisfaction with your daily life. And that, my dear, is often the catalyst to change what else isn’t working.