Deciding to change careers is huge. There are many different opportunities for many people. There is no reason to stay in a career that is not right for you. You may not like your job. You might be looking for a whole new start in a completely different field. In other cases, you may want to move forward.
As you think about your future, think about how you might get there. Often, giant career leaps take a while to plan. You have to consider many variables to know when to make your move and how. This is especially true for seniors who may have obligations to meet. Either way, your first goal is to create a plan.
To take your goal from dream to reality, focus on a few simple tools that can help you get there. Of course, every situation is a little different, but most career changes can happen with a little planning and organization. Here’s what to consider.
Document your goals
The first step to take is to document your goals. It’s a big problem. You don’t need to be specific just yet. Write down what you want to do. Make it your dream job or career path. Then write down other things you would like to do.
In your goals, document the goals as clearly as possible. For example, who do you want to work with and why? What type of work do you hope to do? What are your “whys” for this process? Then when you put those thoughts and ideas on paper, you make them a reality. That is, you define what you want. Now you can start planning how to get to that point.
Then discuss your strengths and weaknesses.
No matter how big your dream is, you have to be qualified for it. To know where you are, write down all your strengths. Next, be sure to list the things that could help you do well in this new field. Be specific here so you can see what your opportunities really are.
Then describe your weaknesses. When working to plan your goals, you need to know what you need to work on. These may be professional skills or technical abilities. It could also be a list of goals you have for developing soft skills. It might take a leadership course or two.
Then, develop a plan to improve in all areas that impact the career you want. For example, you might need certification from a college program. Set a date to achieve these goals. It may take a few months or more. By setting a date for that goal, you make it more real and give yourself something to work toward.
get organized
Now that you have an idea of where you want to go, create goals to achieve. This includes working on those weaknesses. The most critical first step is to consider a timeline.
How long will it take you to get the training you need to work in your chosen field? Use a calendar app to give you that time frame. Set a date to achieve this goal based on how long it takes.
Next, consider the process of reading yourself – like, listening to audible books and reading hard copies, too. Amazon has an amazing selection of business books and audible books. You might need the time to network and build relationships. You may need some time to work in the field in a senior position before taking on an important role. Again, use a Calendar app to set this up. Give yourself enough time to learn.
Whatever you need to do for the job, put a time goal in it. This makes it a little easier for you to pursue your education, professional training, and other goals. You know what you need to do. You have a deadline to do so. Let that motivate you to get there.
Consider your financial needs
Money is often one of the most common barriers that keep people from taking the giant leap forward. You can take a pay cut. You may need to take time off work to return to school. These things are frightening for those with financial responsibilities.
If you need to save money, determine how much you need to save. Your need will be based on your current budget and financial needs. It can look like a lot of money. Instead of seeing it as a big chunk, break it down into a weekly or monthly number. How much do you need to save to be able to do this each week?
Here’s a tip. Set up an automatic draft into your savings account from your paycheck each week for a portion of the amount you’ll need. You can use your calendar app to help a little here. It can remind you to move the money where it needs to go, for example.
Make plans to get things done
What will get you moving? As you work on training and skill building, remember the little things that really add up. Start making appointments with yourself for specific tasks — and also to connect with others who can help build and expand your career choices.
For many people, a new CV is necessary. Spend time updating your resume. Make sure it is strongly geared towards the specific type of job you plan to have. Adjust all of your skills and abilities to match the type of work you plan to do. Here’s a tip for doing it right. Use job websites to check the wording and requirements that many employers have in the field you plan to pursue. Make sure your resume contains these words and skills. Be sure to be honest, but thorough.
Next, take the time to update your LinkedIn profile. Many employers use social media to better understand the person they hire. Make sure your LinkedIn profile matches your resume. He must help you shine through this process. You can also write great content and information about the industry you’re interested in or the work you’ve done. This way, future hiring managers can see your passion in the field.
Also work on brushing up on your soft skills. You may want to volunteer in groups that are important to you. Become a member of the professional association associated with your potential future career. What other qualifications do candidates in your field have? Work to earn them.
Start networking
Many employers today spend a lot of time networking with potential employees. They are also turning to similar platforms. For higher leadership positions, it helps to have a few connections. Work to meet people. Add a few more events in your calendar app, such as business events or networking events. Make time to meet someone in the field for lunch. Talk to people who are already working in the field. How did they get their job?
Consider your long-term goals
A career change is great, and that’s what you’re looking at now. However, now that you have goals to achieve, it’s time to think about your very long-term goals. What is the biggest and boldest goal you have?
Use it as a way to choose where to work. You want to be sure that your next career move will support all of your future goals. The right company, the right people and the right opportunities make a big difference.
It takes a lot to plan your future. But stay organized through it all. Use a calendar app to help keep track of your goals and the work you plan to do. It can help make your vision a reality.
Published first on the calendar. Read here.
Image Credit: photo by Andrea Piacquadio; pexels; Thanks!
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