How to Change Careers Like A Pro (Even If It’s Your First Time)

Pivoting careers and job-hopping are pretty common in this day and age.

In fact, the average employee moves onto a new job every four years.

You may be excited to start in a brand-new field. Or you might be terrified. Either way, there are things you can keep in mind to make the process easier (even if it’s your first time.)

Use Your Existing Skills to Your Advantage

The expected demands and requirements at your new job may feel intimidating.

Actually, it may feel like a nightmare.

Thinking about how you have to restart from the bottom and develop a whole new set of skills suitable for your line of work.

Thinking about the unknowns and uncertainties.

Wondering how you can even appeal to employers with almost no experience as you start out.

That’s all scary stuff.

But, it actually doesn’t need to be.

Your first step here is to identify the things you are already good at (and enjoy doing!) and identify the areas you need to improve.

By doing this, you will be able to find ways to use your existing skills to your advantage in your new field. These are called transferable skills and can include everything from technical work experience, to how to relate well to people, managing projects and/or people, and coordinating events.

Let’s say you’re a practicing attorney and want to start teaching at a law school. Since you have practical knowledge of the field, you can opt to teach subjects that demand fieldwork or require examples. This allows you to use your experience as a lawyer to your advantage.

It will also highlight the specific areas you can focus on and improve.

Trust yourself, and your skills, and find alternative ways to tackle the problems your new field may bring. 

Determine Whether You Need Additional Training and Invest in Getting That Training

We already talked about evaluating your existing skills and expertise, and figuring out what additional skills you need to be proficient in your new field.

Now it’s time to make a plan.

Your new skills may require additional courses or classes to learn. Try to also pick up volunteer or freelance work that aligns with your career goals. Think creatively and be willing to invest in the process as much as you can.

Let’s suppose you intend to move into a digital marketing role, and you need more social media experience. Try managing a social media campaign for some local, small businesses. Or start a page of your own!

If you feel there is some gap in your educational background, take courses or attend workshops. These things will ultimately improve your marketability as a job candidate and allow you to join your new field thoroughly prepared.

A diverse skill set will also increase your chances of getting a higher salary when you make your career change.

Your Unique Professional Background is a Strength

Don’t be discouraged by focusing on the skills you lack. Instead, consider what you can bring to the table, including things other candidates cannot. Think more broadly about what you bring to the role, apart from transferable skills.

Many companies are looking for a person who can bring a different perspective, a creative mind, and a self-motivated attitude to fight out their current business challenges. Due to your unique background, your experience will be taken as a benefit.

It is up to you to know how to communicate your strengths as well, so the company understands your importance and compensates you accordingly.

Negotiate and Ask For More

Once you have navigated the interview process and successfully landed yourself a job offer, you should negotiate to avoid taking a pay cut. Do your research to see the pay range for the position and review the strengths and skills that your employer values.

Do not let the fear of a salary cut keep you from pivoting careers.

Do the work needed to enhance your marketability. Be confident while discussing your salary with your employer and point out the reasons why you think you’re deserving of it. Remember, your confidence is just as crucial to your success as the skills you’ve been hired for. So, negotiate with confidence.

•  When pivoting in your career, take advantage of your established skills
•  Make your professional experience your strength
•  Invest in polishing your talents and be willing to learn additional skills

Don’t be afraid to negotiate your salary at your new workplace!