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Top Tips for a Successful Career Change

23rd March 2018

Changing job does not have to be a daunting process, even if it may be the biggest step in your career. In order for it to be a smooth process there are a few things you should consider. The first thing is why you want to change career in the first place and fully research the sector you would like to move into. It is now the perfect time to think about what you like and dislike about your current role and what you can do in your next career step to pick the right role for you.

Have you thought about your long term plans? Doing this at application stage will benefit you and give you an advantage in the interview stage. Questions around your longer term plans are common when it comes to interview, so by taking care of understanding this now will ultimately help you in the process of finding a new role. By understanding your goals, you will be able to do a lot more industry research into the job you are looking to go into and the companies within the industry. Research is important in order for you to get an understanding of the role you are putting yourself forward for, but also may help you with any uncertainties you may have when it comes to the role.

Look at your skills and experience, by understanding what transferable skills you have you can ensure you have a strong CV. Consider reframing your skills and experience on your CV to suit the job you are applying for, as well as restructuring it. For example, if you are moving from a career in graphic design to a career in HR you should consider changing how you format your CV.

What many people find with changing career is that they have to consider their financial situation, you must make sure you have factored in a potential pay cut. Due to less experience in the sector and of the new role in general you may find that in most cases you will have to lower your salary expectations. With this in mind, consider what is most important to you; the role or the salary, this will help you to come to the right decision for you.

A career change can be intimidating, so it is important to remember that you can change your mind if you feel like the change is not for you. You could consider asking for help from agencies as experienced recruitment consultants help candidates with career changes often and can give you an understanding of what you should expect whilst giving you great advice and interview preparation.