Changing career is a huge decision for anyone, particularly if you have been with one employer, or in a role for a long time.
But you need to know why you are changing and really reflect on what is important to you.
Asking yourself the right questions can ease the uncertainty of what to do next, and show you what your options, goals, values and aspirations may look like.
This is not an exhaustive list but can help you start your journey, so work your way through these questions and then take time to reflect on your answers.
If you need help to navigate your way through the next stages to a more fulfilling career, our Career Coaches can help.
Where you are now
1. What has prompted a career change?
Why am I unhappy, or unfulfilled in my current role, sector, or work environment? What is missing?
Do I have the urge to pursue my passion – can I make a career out of it?
2. What strengths and skills do I want to use?
What are my transferable skills and what can I add to a new role?
What am I good at and like doing most at work?
3. What about culture, values and must haves?
Is my work-life balance all wrong and does my current role meet my priorities?
Do I fit into my current work culture?
4. What are my long-term goals?
Where do I want to be in the future?
Will a new career meet my vision of the future?
Exploration questions
5. Sectors and roles I am interested in
6. Have I got the right qualifications?
Will I need to retrain, or go back to college?
7. Is there a demand for the role I want to do?
Is the sector growing and are the plenty of opportunities available
Practicality questions
8. Can I afford to move?
If I start at the bottom, or take time out to re-qualify, can I afford to live?
Am I willing to start on a lower salary package?
9. How will this change affect my lifestyle?
Do I need – or want – to relocate, travel more, change my work pattern?
10. Do I have a back-up plan?
If it doesn’t work out, what then?
Research your new role
11. Do I know anyone in the sector?
Can I use my networks to find someone to talk to?
How do I find out about my target career?
12. Will the new role have the same problems as I do now?
Can I talk to someone in the role at present to see what challenges they face and what they love – and don’t love – about their role?
The next stage
Am I ready to take this step, right now?
If you want to talk to a Career Coach, who can help you find the answers, get in touch for an initial free consultation.
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