You need to enable Javascript to use the site properly.

Career Change Do's and Don'ts

Viewed 8501 Time(s)

Changing your career path is a significant decision to make. Career change requires fanatical planning and dedicated focus. There are many things to consider when planning a career change.

Your career demands constant attention and it is up to you to nurture your successes.

When planning a career move there are many things that Job Seekers need to be aware of. So many in fact, that part of the problem when faced with changing your job is keeping up with what's required. As already discussed, career changes are opportunities for Job Seekers to advance along a career path they set out for themselves. While daunting, changing your career and seeking a new market is undoubtedly difficult but not impossible.

To follow is a list of career change do's. Yes that's right, only do's. This is because Jobs.co.za believes that the more you Do for your career change the better the outcome. Use this list of career change do's and empower yourself when making a career move.

Career Change Do's

Guide your career change by utilising a career change action plan.
Career moves are hard work. Expect your career change to be challenging but worthwhile once you have made your move.
Practice patience during a career change. Changes of such magnitude always take time. Find ways to stay motivated and keep your eye on your career change ball.
Continuously evaluate your needs and desires. Make use of self evaluation tests, career assessment tests, personality tests and other questionnaires that may assist you in your quest to change your career.
Closely evaluate the things you like and what you dislike about your current career. When making a career move it is vital that you are well aware of the things you can change and those you cannot. Knowing your likes and dislikes will steer you in the direction you need to pursue for a successful career change.
Network with industry peers and build you rapport amongst your desired career industry leaders. The more contacts you develop and the more networking you partake in will stand you in good stead to making a successful career move.
Keep up to date with industry related news. Keep a close watch on markets, economies and demand and supply queries to ensure you are up to date with relevant industry news. Knowing how a certain industry is performing will aid you in making the right career move at the exact right time.
Continuously train and develop your skills until they match the requirements of your desired industry. Specific markets call for certain qualification in order for the CV application to be relevant. Familiarise yourself with your career training and education requirements and follow a training plan in order to comply accordingly.
Gain relevant experience in your desired career. By participation in apprenticeships and internships, job seekers planning on a career move are at an advantage of having such experience. When planning a career move, participate where ever possible in your relevant industry. Even if you have to sacrifice personal time and not receive any remuneration for it, this time will be most beneficial when making a career move.
Consider hiring a career coach when contemplating a career move. Career Coaches will advise you accordingly and assist you in identifying opportunities you may not have been aware of before.
Find a mentor to give you reliable career move advice. Having someone who is already in your dream role is a great way to learn more about your desired move. Research industry experts and network with them accordingly. At best, career leaders are usually happy have a protégé around to boost their credibility and to 'pass on the knowledge'.
Carry a career journal to keep you motivated. In your career change journal you may want to record important interests and dislikes, questions you may want to refer back to and other research. As mentioned, changing careers takes quite a bit of introspection. Write your thoughts down on paper and assess them at every juncture of your career.
Make use of all career change resources available to you. The more resources you have working in your favour the better informed your career change will be. Check out personality tests, salary surveys and anything else you can get your hands on in order to make an informed decision.
Test-drive your career change job. Try to arrange to shadow someone in a similar role to which you are looking to move to. Ask questions, examine what their day entails and assess if this is something you want to be doing.