Sick of your job? Here's how to find a new career in 6 easy steps
We all experience bad days at work from time to time. But if those bad days are becoming increasingly common, or if you’re simply bored with your current job and stuck in a work rut, then you’re not alone.
Years ago, it was common to hold the same career over the course of a working life but these days it’s not unusual for people to change careers many times. So, if you’re thinking that it might be time to embark on a new career, here are some easy steps you can follow to ensure you’ll find a rewarding new job.
1. Perform a self-assessment
Before you even look at the current job listings, you should first assess what job satisfaction means to you. Ask yourself what it is about your job that you don’t want to experience again. Then look at what matters to you. Is it the pay? Is it the work environment, opportunities for growth or personal development, location, flexible hours etc? List your answers and use them as the base for finding your new career path.
2. Decide if you want to do a full career change
A full career change means changing not just the job you know but potentially also changing industries altogether. Ask yourself if you want to make this drastic change, or just want to change your position or company.
Could you perhaps be happier in the same role in a different organisation? Or would you be willing to start over again to learn a new job in a completely different industry? While many people find increased job satisfaction when changing careers completely, this approach certainly comes with its own challenges so think it through carefully.
3. Research the industries you’re targeting
Should you decide to follow a career path in a different industry, it’s essential you do thorough research first. One focal starting point is to study how the industries you’re targeting are doing after Covid-19, since the pandemic has shaken up the business landscape significantly.
It’s a great idea to find some local industry events you can attend in order to network and get a feel for what the future of changing careers in these companies could look like for you. You can also research through LinkedIn or ask your network for some career guidance.
4. Chat with people in the industry or role
After deciding which career path options seem to be the best for you, you should have narrowed your list. The next step is to chat with others in your chosen field.
Are there people in your network who work in that industry? Or do you know someone who can introduce you to others who can provide helpful insights on how to succeed in that field? If not, try to make appropriate connections through LinkedIn then set a time to catch up for a coffee and in-depth conversation to learn more.
5. Define your career goals
At this point, you will have already done the necessary research and have pretty much decided on a specific position (and possibly industry) you want your career change to focus on. Next, it’s time to define your career goals, as all job seekers must do.
If you’re looking at it long-term, consider further education and certifications to enhance your skills and help you prepare for the next big thing you expect to happen in your career.
6. Update your personal brand
We know that your decisions and goals are now clear, and you probably can't wait to start sending your resume out there. But not just yet - speaking of resumes, it's critical that you update your personal brand to fit your target role and industry.
And if you're doing a full career change, the way you currently present your previous experiences may not align with your desired goals. That's why it's crucial to do a bit of updating and rebranding of your resume and cover letter. And while you’re at it, have a think about your social media presence, especially your LinkedIn profile. For example, if you’re currently a nurse but your ideal role is in HR or organisational change management, try to incorporate aspects of your current role that are relevant to the new role you’re looking for - and make sure you highlight these.
Think about how you can apply your existing skills and experiences for the role you are targeting and why you're the perfect fit - so you can create a powerful personal statement of your brand.
It’s time for a change!
And finally, you’re ready to send your applications to all the companies you’ve listed in your preparation process. Go for it and be passionate about it. We also know that finding a new job may mean you need some extra funds to update your qualifications, your resume or your wardrobe - so we’re here to help. Just take a look at our cash loans to $5,000 to find out how quick and easy it is to get your hands on some extra funds. Once a loan is approved, the cash is usually in your bank account within a few hours – so you can fast track that career change now!