You’re considering a career change. How can you be sure it’s the right move?

1 Assess your reasons

Before you jump into a career change, it’s important to understand why you want to do it. Are you looking for more challenge, fulfillment, or growth? Are you unhappy with your work environment, culture, or values? Are you facing a personal or professional crisis that requires a change? Write down your reasons and evaluate how strong and valid they are. If you have temporary or solvable issues, you might want to try fixing them first. If you have deeper or persistent reasons, you might want to pursue a career change.

2 Explore your options

Once you have a clear idea of why you want to change careers, you need to figure out what you want to do next. What are your interests, passions, and strengths? What are your values, goals, and priorities? What are the skills, qualifications, and experiences you have or need to acquire? Do some research on different fields, industries, and roles that match your criteria. Talk to people who work in those areas and ask them about their challenges, opportunities, and advice. Narrow down your options to a few that excite you and align with your vision.

3 Prepare for the transition

Changing careers is not easy. It takes time, effort, and resilience. You need to be ready for the challenges and risks that come with it. You need to have a realistic plan, a flexible mindset, and a supportive network. You need to update your resume, portfolio, and online presence to showcase your transferable skills and relevant achievements. You need to network with potential employers, mentors, and peers who can help you find opportunities and learn new skills. You need to be prepared to face rejections, setbacks, and uncertainties along the way.

5 Negotiate the terms

When you find a suitable opportunity for your career change, you need to negotiate the terms of your employment. This includes your salary, benefits, hours, responsibilities, and expectations. You need to be realistic and respectful, but also assertive and confident. You need to highlight your value and potential, but also acknowledge your gaps and needs. You need to balance your interests and goals with those of your employer and colleagues. You need to be open to learning, feedback, and adaptation.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?