The Best Action Plan to Change Your Career and Move Easily to A New Job

Planning a career change can mean the difference between success and failure. Finding a job that fulfills you is the ultimate goal, but you need to do the work to figure out where you want to go. With a clear action plan, you can determine whether you need a simple change of scenery or a complete career shift.

Career changes are common in today’s job market. Fifty-three percent of American workers are dissatisfied with their current job. Are you tired of an overbearing boss or gossiping with colleagues? Is your industry struggling in the face of changing technologies? It’s important to find out if you’re ready for a new job or a new direction.

If it’s time to make a career change, follow these steps to determine your next move and find a fulfilling career.

Step 1: Write down your “why”.

Think about why you want to make a career change. Think about where you have been in your career – the time and training that got you to where you are now, the experiences you have had. What do you love about your job? What do you hate about it? Evaluate what worked and what didn’t.

Try to answer what the ideal job looks like for you. If you are annoyed by colleagues or struggling for a better salary, a different position or a new company may be an easier answer than a complete career change. With a new job or a change of department, you can easily change the daily tasks and office environment.

Step 2: Evaluate your strengths and passions.

What tasks have you enjoyed doing throughout your career? What would you like to do in the future? Understanding where your true passions lie can help you move in the right direction. If you are having trouble figuring out which careers are right for you, talk to a career coach. Discuss your ideas with family, friends, and colleagues to get additional feedback. Online career assessments are a good way to find out what other careers might be of interest to you.

Step 3: Explore your options.

Allow yourself to dream big and consider all career options. Make a list of ideas that are interesting to you. Outline all your career considerations and create a meaningful list of pros and cons for each option, including salary requirements, location, flexibility, and benefits. Narrow your choices down to five options.

Step 4: Choose a career and set clear goals.

Review your shortlist and set both short- and long-term goals for moving forward. What kind of education and training will you need for each option? Are there other cities and regions with better prospects than your current location? Before you start applying for jobs, make sure you have all the information you need to succeed.

Step 5: Expand your network.

Now that you’ve decided on a new direction, reach out to your contacts, attend networking events and immerse yourself in communities relevant to your new role. Try to connect with experts who are already working in your chosen industry. Informational interviews can be helpful when making a career change, as they make connections with potential employers and provide insight into day-to-day activities and responsibilities.

Step 6: Try it out.

In addition to informational interviews, a “trial run” in a new job can provide a further understanding of a new career path. You can gain valuable experience by volunteering for a similar role at a local non-profit organization. Explore a new job by shadowing a trusted mentor. Contact recruiters to discuss the current job market and available opportunities in your area.

Step 7: Update your professional brand.

Once you’re ready to begin your job search, polish your professional brand and have it ready to go. Revise your CV to reflect your career change and be prepared to explain the how and why of your career change. Adapt your cover letter for the career change to highlight your skills and experience relevant to the new role. Start contacting employers in your intended field. Add new skills and experience to your LinkedIn profile.

Once you have completed these steps, prepare to take the leap! With a career transition action plan, you will have done the homework needed to succeed in your new career.

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