There are many reasons that prompt the need for a career change. Some people change their careers because they feel disconnected from their current job, others leave when the job itself impacts their self-esteem and health while some change careers when the organisational culture no longer lives up to what and how it was when they initially assumed duties. While change is inevitable, it’s important to embrace the season when a job no longer fulfills you. Our experts share their insights on how you can prepare for making a career change.
Making a career shift
Founding Director of Transire Consulting, Bongiwe Beja-Ntsiko says that one needs to be open-minded when it comes to their career. ‘A career will not stay constant even if you choose to stay in the same sector or industry,’ she says. The pandemic provided us with great lessons when considering work and the future of employment.
One main lesson to take away is the agility that one must adopt when it comes to managing and building a career. Bongiwe went from working in the asset management industry in the financial services sector to doing youth development work in the education technology (EdTech) sector. ‘The change for me has been fulfilling and has allowed me to grow and to do daily what I am truly passionate about,’ she says.
Are you ready for change?
Life Coach Sisonke Pota-Nkonki says a career change allows one to acquire new skills and broaden their knowledge base. Changing careers can be difficult as you must give thought to your mental and emotional readiness. ‘Another factor to consider is whether or not you have a strong support system in place, to help you through the challenges that come with change,’ she advises.
In preparation for your career change, you also need to consider upgrading your skill set for your next career move and ensure that you build a strong network within the area you wish to venture into.
Factors that influence a career change
1. Passion Passion points to purpose. Sometimes, our passion fuels our careers and when you’re called to do something, it’s impossible to fight the feeling.
2. Financial Reasons You may change careers to better your financial position and ability to fend for yourself and family.
3. Economic Climate People have had lay-offs and retrenchments after the pandemic, which has led to many becoming entrepreneurs and exploring different career avenues.
4. Development When you feel as if you’ve reached a ceiling at work and wish to pursue something new to develop and grow, you might consider a career change.
Lean on the Professionals
A good question you would need to consider is, whether or not you truly enjoy the chosen career path and if you are well-positioned for this career? It may be a good investment to have a career coach, mentor, or a therapist before you transition. Change requires navigation and having a little help goes a long way.
Bongiwe has found that consulting a career coach to assist with answering these important questions can help. ‘There are some career coaches who don’t cost an arm and a leg for their services and at times have free resources. In addition, higher education institutions can also offer career guidance services to their students free of charge,’ she concludes.
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