Changing Your Career

Index

1. Motivators for career change

2. The importance of timing

3. Understanding your transferable skills

4. Generating and researching ideas on new careers

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1. Motivators for career change

Changing career is a significant decision, often prompted by a variety of motivators. For many people, it’s not just about finding a new role—it’s about reshaping their professional and personal lives in pursuit of greater fulfilment, stability, or challenge. Understanding these motivators is key to making an informed and purposeful career transition.

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Dissatisfaction with the current job
A common catalyst for change is dissatisfaction with a current role. This might stem from feeling undervalued, working in a toxic environment, or simply no longer finding the work engaging. A lack of alignment between personal values and the organisation’s culture or goals can also leave people questioning their professional path. When a job becomes a source of stress or frustration, it can prompt individuals to seek a fresh start in a role or industry that resonates more closely with their priorities.

 

Financial incentives
Money remains a powerful motivator for career change. Whether someone feels underpaid for their skills, faces rising living costs, or aspires to a better lifestyle, financial concerns often drive the decision to pursue new opportunities. Certain careers may also offer greater earning potential, better benefits, or the chance to build wealth in the long term, making them an attractive prospect.

 

Following a passion
Many people dream of turning their passions into a career. For some, this might mean leaving behind a corporate job to open a café, start a creative business, or work in a field they’ve always admired, such as the arts or non-profits. Pursuing a passion can bring deep satisfaction, as work becomes an extension of one’s interests and identity rather than just a means to earn a living.

 

Industry decline or uncertainty
In a rapidly changing world, entire industries can experience downturns due to automation, market shifts, or economic challenges. If someone’s sector is shrinking or their role is at risk, a proactive career change can provide greater security and opportunities for growth. Exploring roles in stable or emerging industries, such as green energy or technology, can offer both financial stability and long-term prospects.

 

Improved work-life balance
An increasing number of people are prioritising work-life balance, especially after reflecting on their priorities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Long hours, high-pressure roles, or an inability to spend time with loved ones can lead to burnout and a desire for a career that allows greater flexibility or reduced stress. Transitioning to a role with more manageable hours or remote working options can make a significant difference to overall wellbeing.

 

Seeking a new challenge
For some, career change is driven by a desire to break free from monotony. When a role becomes routine, it can lead to stagnation and a lack of motivation. A new career offers an opportunity to learn, grow, and stretch one’s abilities in a way that feels exciting and invigorating.

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Limited progression opportunities
When career progression stalls, many people look elsewhere to achieve their ambitions. This might occur in organisations with limited upward mobility, where employees feel they’ve hit a glass ceiling. A new career can open doors to roles with greater potential for advancement, professional development, and leadership opportunities.

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Personal circumstances and life transitions
Life events such as relocation, health changes, or family commitments often spark career transitions. For instance, moving to a new city might require finding a different role or industry, while health concerns might prompt someone to seek less physically demanding work. Similarly, those returning to work after raising children may look to redefine their professional identities in a way that aligns with their new priorities.

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A desire for purpose
For many, a career change is about seeking greater purpose and meaning. This might involve transitioning to a role where they can make a tangible difference, such as working in education, healthcare, or the charity sector. Feeling like one’s work contributes positively to society can be a powerful motivator, fostering a sense of personal fulfilment.

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Changing careers is rarely an impulsive decision—it’s often the result of careful reflection and a strong desire to align one’s professional life with personal goals and values. Understanding the underlying motivators provides clarity and focus, ensuring the transition is both purposeful and rewarding.

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2. The importance of timing

The timing of a career change is one of the most crucial factors in ensuring a successful transition. Deciding when to move on to something new requires careful consideration of personal, professional, and financial circumstances. While there’s rarely a “perfect” moment, recognising the signs that it might be time to pivot—and weighing the pros and cons—can help you make a more confident and informed decision.

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Clearly being made redundant is a major factor in making such a decision, however, it might not be the best time to embark on something new if other priorities in your life dictate the need for stability. 

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Personal readiness
Your mindset and emotional readiness play a critical role. Are you feeling energised by the idea of change, or are you acting out of frustration or burnout? Are your values threatened in your current job and do you seek to do more "good" in another role? While dissatisfaction with your current role can be a motivator, making a move during periods of heightened stress or uncertainty could lead to rushed decisions. It’s often better to approach a career change from a place of clarity and balance, giving yourself the best chance of choosing a path that truly aligns with your goals.

 

Professional trajectory
Evaluate whether your career has reached a natural transition point. Have you outgrown your role, hit a glass ceiling, or found yourself in a job that no longer challenges or excites you? Alternatively, if your current seniority and your industry still offers opportunities for growth, it may be worth leveraging those before moving on. Understanding your trajectory helps you assess whether the timing feels premature or overdue.

 

Financial stability
A stable financial foundation can provide a safety net during a career change, particularly if it involves a period of uncertainty or retraining. Consider your savings, potential loss of income, and any financial commitments you have, such as a mortgage or childcare costs. If your finances aren’t yet robust enough to support a transition where the salary might be lower than your previous job, it might be worth delaying until you’ve built a stronger cushion.

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Market conditions
The state of your industry and the wider economy can heavily influence the timing of a career change. Are you entering a booming field with ample opportunities, or is the job market particularly competitive? Similarly, consider whether your skills are currently in demand or if you’ll need additional qualifications or training. Timing your move to coincide with favourable market conditions can significantly improve your chances of success.

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Personal life factors
Life changes, such as starting a family, caring for elderly relatives, or relocating, can influence the timing of a career change. These circumstances may either push you towards a new role that better fits your situation, offers a great work-life balance or suggests a delay until your personal life feels more settled. Timing your career change to align with major life events can help ensure a smoother transition.

 

Signs it might be time to change

• Persistent dissatisfaction: If you’ve been unhappy in your role for an extended period, it’s worth exploring other options.

• Lack of growth: Feeling stagnant or unchallenged may indicate it’s time to seek new opportunities.

• Shifting priorities: If your values or goals no longer align with your current role or industry, it might be a sign to move on.

• Opportunities knocking: If an opportunity arises, such as a redundancy, even if the timing isn’t “ideal,” it may be worth pursuing.

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Be catious though...

• Uncertainty: Career changes can be risky, especially if you’re venturing into unfamiliar territory.

• Financial impact: Transitioning to a new role or retraining may temporarily reduce your income.

• Emotional stress: Leaving a secure role can be daunting, especially if you’re unsure about what’s next.

 

Balancing risk and reward
Ultimately, the decision to change careers is a balancing act between timing and opportunity. While there’s rarely a “perfect” time, careful planning can help you minimise risks and maximise rewards. If you’re unsure, consider starting small—exploring potential industries, building skills, or networking—while staying in your current role. Taking incremental steps allows you to assess whether the timing feels right without fully committing to a change.

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The key is to recognise that timing is personal. It’s less about finding the “right” time and more about creating the conditions that allow you to thrive in your next chapter. With thoughtful consideration and preparation, you can approach your career change with confidence and clarity.

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3. Understanding your transferable skills​​​

Considering a career change can feel overwhelming, but it is also a fantastic opportunity to evaluate what you have to offer and align your work with your passions and goals. A key part of this process involves identifying and leveraging your transferable skills—those abilities and experiences that can be applied across multiple industries or roles.

 

What are transferable skills?

Transferable skills are versatile abilities you’ve developed in one context that can be applied effectively in another. These could stem from your current job, volunteer work, hobbies, or personal projects. Examples include:

• Communication: Writing, presenting, active listening, and negotiation.

• Teamwork: Collaborating with diverse groups, conflict resolution, and relationship management.

• Problem-solving: Analytical thinking, decision-making, and troubleshooting.

• Leadership: Managing projects, motivating teams, and strategic planning.

• Time management: Prioritising tasks, meeting deadlines, and organisational skills.

• Technical skills: Proficiency with software, tools, or platforms (e.g., Microsoft Office, project management software etc).

• Creativity and innovation: Generating new ideas, adapting to change, and finding unique solutions.

 

How to Identify Your Transferable Skills

1. Reflect on your experience:

   • Work history: Look at your past roles and note achievements, responsibilities, and tasks that required specific skills.

   • Education: Consider courses, training, or certifications where you gained knowledge or skills.

   • Personal Activities: Think about hobbies, volunteer work, or caregiving responsibilities that developed your abilities.

2. Ask for feedback:

   • Speak with colleagues, mentors, or friends who know your work well. They may recognise strengths you take for granted.

3. Review job descriptions:

   • Look at roles you’re interested in and identify recurring skills and keywords. Cross-reference these with your experiences.

4. Take stock of your strengths:

   • Use self-assessment tools (discussed below) to clarify your capabilities and preferences.

 

Tools to assess transferable skills

Several free resources are available online to help you evaluate your skills:

 

National Careers Service Skills Health Check (UK): A detailed assessment to identify strengths and align them with potential careers.
(Website: https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/skills-assessment)

 

Skills Matcher by CareerOneStop (US-based but relevant): Matches your skills with career suggestions.
(Website: https://www.careeronestop.org)

 

16Personalities: A free personality test that provides insights into how your traits might influence your work preferences.
(Website: https://www.16personalities.com)

 

MindTools Transferable Skills Quiz: A short quiz to identify and categorise your transferable skills.​​

(Website: https://www.mindtools.com)

 

FutureLearn: Free online courses to explore career options and necessary skills

(Website: https://www.futurelearn.com)

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Prospects: Career planning tool with advice on training and career change insights

(Website: https://www.prospects.ac.uk)

 

How to leverage transferable skills

1. Tailor your CV and Cover letter:

   • Highlight transferable skills that are relevant to the role you’re applying for. Use specific examples to show how these skills brought value in your previous roles.

2. Build a skills-based CV:

   • If changing industries, consider a skills-based CV format, which places emphasis on competencies over chronological work experience.

3. Network strategically:

   • Engage with professionals in your target field and ask about the skills valued in their industry.

4. Upskill where needed:

   • If there are gaps, explore free or low-cost training options such as MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) on platforms like Coursera, edX, or FutureLearn.

5. Practise your pitch:

   • Be prepared to explain how your experiences and skills translate to the new role. For example:
     “In my previous role, I managed a team through a challenging project. This required strategic planning, clear communication, and adaptability—skills that are equally essential in [new industry/role].”

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Changing careers is a significant decision, but with careful planning and an understanding of your transferable skills, it is entirely achievable. Focus on the value you bring, not just the roles you’ve held. Take small, practical steps to explore options and build a roadmap toward your next career. Remember, you don’t have to do it all at once—this is a journey, not a race.​​

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4. Generating and researching ideas on new careers​​​​​

Exploring new career paths can be both exciting and challenging. The first step in a successful job change is understanding what you want and what you can offer. Begin by reflecting on your skills, interests, and priorities. Generating ideas for potential roles, researching them effectively, and then determining which ones align with your skills, values, and passions is an effective process you can follow.

 

Self-reflection
Start by asking yourself key questions:

• What do I enjoy doing? Reflect on the tasks, projects, and hobbies that energise you.

• What am I naturally good at? Identify strengths you’ve demonstrated consistently throughout your work and personal life.

• What matters to me? Consider your values—such as flexibility, creativity, stability, or making a difference—and think about how they might shape your career choices.

• What are my non-negotiables? Define practical constraints like salary requirements, location, or working hours.

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Using the Can/Want/Fit Model
This model helps focus your career search:

• Can: What are you skilled at? Consider technical, soft, and transferable skills you’ve developed in past roles.

• Want: What excites you? Identify areas you’re passionate about or motivated to explore.

• Fit: What aligns with your lifestyle and values? Think about the work environment, company culture, and role expectations.

The sweet spot lies where these three areas overlap—roles that you are skilled at, that you enjoy, and that fit your personal circumstances.

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Exploring the Ikigai Model
Ikigai is a Japanese concept meaning "reason for being". It offers another way to identify fulfilling careers by considering:

• What you love (your passions).

• What you are good at (your skills).

• What the world needs (your purpose).

• What you can be paid for (financial viability).

The overlap of these four areas highlights your career alignement—a role that balances passion, skill, purpose, and income.

 

Brainstorming ideas

• Use tools like National Careers Service (www.nationalcareers.service.gov.uk) to explore career profiles, skills requirements, and industry insights.

• Try career-matching quizzes such as the Skills Health Check on the National Careers Service website to identify roles based on your current abilities and interests.

• Explore alternative paths for your current skills by asking:

  • “What industries or roles require skills like mine?”

  • “What emerging industries might benefit from my expertise?”

 

Leverage your network

• Speak with friends, colleagues, or acquaintances in industries that interest you. They might provide insights into potential roles or emerging opportunities.

• Attend networking events or industry meetups to learn about career paths from professionals in the field.

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Prompting ideas with AI
AI tools like ChatGPT can really help you generate tailored suggestions. I am a huge advocate of this line of enquiry, just ensure your prompt covers as much information about what you like and dislike, alongside your passions and skills, to assist the AI tool in creating close matches to the sorts of roles that might suit and excite you. (See ChatGPT: Work Smarter resource).

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• “What career options exist for someone with skills in [your skill] and an interest in [your interest]?”

• “Suggest alternative roles for a [current job title] seeking a more creative role.”

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Investigating role requirements

Once you’ve identified potential roles, thorough research is essential to determine their suitability.

• Study job descriptions to understand the key responsibilities, skills, and qualifications needed.

• Look at LinkedIn profiles of professionals in similar roles to explore typical career paths.

• Use salary benchmarking sites like Glassdoor (www.glassdoor.co.uk) and Indeed (www.indeed.co.uk) to understand earning potential.

 

Learning about the industry

• Explore company websites to gain insights into organisational culture and values.

• Read industry reports or articles to identify trends, challenges, and growth opportunities.

• Join professional forums or LinkedIn groups where people share insights about specific careers.

 

Informational interviews
Reach out to professionals in your target field for informal conversations. Ask questions like:

• What does a typical day in your role involve?

• What skills and qualities are most valuable in this role?

• What challenges do you face, and how do you overcome them?

 

Online courses and taster experiences
Explore free or low-cost courses to gain an introduction to your chosen field. Platforms like FutureLearn (www.futurelearn.com) or LinkedIn Learning (www.linkedin.com/learning) offer a range of courses tailored to specific industries or skills. Be aware that Linkedin Learning does come at a monthly cost.

 

Determining suitable roles

Once you have a clearer picture of potential roles:

• Compare them against your Can/Want/Fit or Ikigai sweet spot. If a role aligns with all key areas, it’s likely a strong contender.

• Eliminate roles that don’t meet your minimum requirements or fail to spark genuine interest.

• Prioritise roles that offer a balance of challenge, fulfilment, and long-term growth potential.

 

Next steps

After narrowing your options, focus on taking actionable steps:

• Upskill: Fill any gaps in your knowledge or qualifications by enrolling in relevant courses.

• Tailor your CV: Highlight transferable skills and relevant achievements that showcase your fit for the new role.

• Network strategically: Use LinkedIn and your personal connections to learn more about your chosen field and identify opportunities.

• Set goals: Create a timeline for applying to roles, gaining experience, or completing any required training.

 

By combining structured self-reflection with thorough research, you can identify roles that align with your skills, interests, and aspirations, setting you on a path to a fulfilling career.

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