The Career Change Checklist You Need on Your Desk

With the average professional these days usually only staying in one job for around four years, it’s likely that you’ve considered jumping careers at some point in your life. But whether or not you want some long-term stability in your new role or are just looking to try something new, there are a few things you should consider before making the change and embarking on your new job. If you’ve never made the switch before and don’t know what to expect, then we’ve covered a few of the basics that you should check off your list before making a move.

1. Take The Time
   A career switch isn’t something that you can just manoeuvre overnight, so make sure you are able to invest the time you need to make the switch. Whether you use that time saving money, upskilling yourself, or just gaining clarity on your situation, don’t rush into any life changing decisions.
2. Find Your Passion
   If you are in it for the long haul, then you don’t want to be stuck in a job that you hate. Make sure that whatever job you choose, you are passionate about. Even if you only plan to stay in your new job for a few years, you also want to make sure that you are happy and satisfied with your choice.

3. Create Your Plan
   Know where you want to end up in life? Do your research and work backwards from there. Changing careers is a long process and you should make sure to keep track of all of the steps that you need to make. Chart down all the smaller steps, too – this change isn’t just about leaps and bounds.

4. Keep Your Networks Strong
   Managing your relationships is never more crucial than now. Having a positive relationship with your co-workers and employers will make leaving your current position easier, and you will no doubt need a good circle of friends and family to help keep you calm during the stressful days ahead. If you are looking to change into an entirely new field, send out feelers and try to start meeting people in your new field, so you have a comfortable circle to fall into when you do make the switch.

5. Open Yourself Up
   Change can be a terrifying thing, particularly if its something as drastic as a career switch. Your new job will indubitably change a lot of things in your life, but you need to be ready to let go of your fears around making the switch if you truly desire a smooth change of course. If you are feeling hesitant about changing your path, you need to learn to rid yourself of those insecurities to afford yourself the best future possible. Talk to the people around you to help ease your mind and even seek out professional help if you truly want an outsider’s opinion, but don’t let them keep you in a career you are unhappy with. After all, nothing good ever came from stagnation, and no one should control your future but you.