Many of us have invested significant energy, money and time into our career. It’s normal to feel anxious and apprehensive at the thought of switching career paths. It’s crucial to keep in mind most people will work well into their late 60s and even up to 70 years of age. In remembering this, it’s wise to reflect on your options and on an occupation you will: Gain satisfaction Find rewarding See meaning in Every once in a while you might find it difficult thinking about, and going into work. If this becomes a long-term situation, you may need to re-evaluate why you’re in your current role and what you’re looking for in your career path. It’s crucial to take a holistic approach in why you want to change career paths, and how this may affect your work-life balance, standard of living and overall lifestyle. Why are you staying? Firstly you need to ask: why are you staying in your current role? Is it for the money, the security or the benefits your workplace provides? These are important factors to consider when choosing to move from one workplace to another or switching industries all together. Specific career paths will offer better options in one of those areas. For example, some roles may offer better work-life balance and money, but the security and overall benefits received may not be so favourable. You have to decide which of these factors is more important to you and what you’re willing to sacrifice. In saying this, many people will have to consider their family, partners and children into this equation. When making a decision on this, it’s best to consult those who may be affected by your choice to switch jobs. This may provide further insight into other factors you may need to consider or even provide clarity in your choice. Thoughts before the Leap The next step is to consider what you’re specifically looking for: Change: in routine, skills and interest Moving up and new challenges: are you looking for more responsibility, a leadership role, or to further develop your skills? Are you looking for a new challenge that your current role is no longer offering? New industry: have you decided you no longer have the interest and passion in the industry you’re working in? Travel: does your new role require interstate or international travel? New work environment: is your current workplace limiting your development or hindering you from performing at your best? These are just some examples of aspects you’ll need to consider prior to making the jump. Time and Money After reflecting on the above, you still have to consider one key factor before making the leap – the transition period – in entering a new career path or industry, which will be dependent on time and finances. This includes evaluating your current financial situation, needs and restraints. You will need to ask yourself … will it work, and how will you make it work? It’s imperative that financial outcomes are critically analysed as this can make or break your transition. Ready, set, go! Here are a few tips and factors to consider when you decide to switch lanes: Research – are there jobs available in the specific position or industry you’re looking for? Are you a good fit for the role – do you have a genuine interest and see yourself in the specific position you’re applying for? Are you work ready – do you have the skills, experience and knowledge required for this role? If you don’t you may want to consider the following: Write to, and call, companies and hiring managers Work for free Volunteer Education programs – Do you need to complete any certifications or qualifications to enter the industry? If so, online education may be a great option as you can continue to work in your current role and study at the same time. Networking – Use LinkedIn as a tool to connect to relevant contacts that may lead you to the right direction and role, attend industry events, and sign up for workshops to up skill. Job interview preparation – Ensure you’ve refined your resume and CV, and ensure it’s relevant to the industry you’re applying for. Be sure to also practice some key interview questions; it’s a great idea to practice with a colleague, your HR representative, or a career counsellor. Persistence – Be prepared for rejection and be patient as this process does not happen overnight. Remember not to settle, until you know it’s the role that suits you! Choosing to switch career paths is a process, which takes time, effort and the right opportunity. As Steve Jobs said: “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.”