You’ve done it! You’ve decided to make a career change. Congratulations! You are so full of hope and enthusiasm it’s hard to think about anything else. But wait, what’s that other emotion you’re feeling…Panic! Deciding was easy or at least easier. Now the real work begins. How do you prepare for the actual change? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. The average person changes careers 5-7 times during their working life (https://bit.ly/37P4XVc). Preparing for your career change takes planning.
While it’s tempting to march right into your boss’s office and announce you’re leaving, this is something that should be done with planning and thought. Unless you’re independently wealthy and if so, by all means, go in there right now and make it happen!
If you’re like the majority of us and income is a barrier, there are some things you can do to insure a smooth transition.
What do you love? What are you good at?
If you’re one of those people who knows exactly what you want to be when you grow up (or in your next career) good for you! You are one of the fortunate ones! Most of us are a little or a lot unclear in this area. While you feel confident in the decision to make a change, deciding what to do instead is more difficult.
Start with a list of what you love. Put some thought into this. Maybe you love animals and are thinking about starting your own pet business. Do you also love working with people? Do you love doing administrative work? Do you love organizing?
Once you have a good list of things you love or at least like, make another list of things you’re good at. Again, be detailed. Most people have far more skills than they think they do and even several super powers. My own superpowers include getting dogs to poop on command and coaxing cats out from under beds.
Once you have these two lists make a 3rd list of careers/occupations to explore based on what you love doing and what you’re good at (which are often one in the same thing)!
Ask the hard financial question.
Chances are you aren’t in a position to immediately give up your current income. That’s okay but changing careers takes time. You’re probably going to have to keep going in your current role for a little longer but don’t worry, it’s a means to an end!
Start with a budget. How much do you need every month to live? How much have you got in savings? There is no black and white answer on how much you should have in reserve before you leave your job. How long do you anticipate being out of work? If you’re going back to school full time to get a new degree it might be a while.
Brainstorm some alternative options. Can you skinny down expenses to make your savings last longer? Are you willing to take a different part time job for less pay in the interim? Can you simply work part time at your current job? Is you spouse or partner in a position to pick up the slack for a while? Only you and your family can decide what level of risk you feel comfortable with.
Educate yourself!
You will need training. It might be anything from going back to school for a new degree to reading books on your new path. This will likely require some financial investment but it doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. There are a wealth of free or low-cost options out there for career training.
If you plan to launch your own business, start with the Small Business Association. They have tons of great resources, webinars, classes, tools and partners to help you educate yourself. If you are planning to seek employment with a company start with a search for trade associations or speak with people in that industry for guidance and help.
Once you’ve answered the questions above make a career plan and write it down! Include specifics on what you’re going to do and when you’re going to do it. The plan may change somewhat but it’s
And finally, when the time comes to say goodbye to your current employer do it in a smart way. You may be walking away from your career but that doesn’t mean you should walk away from the people you work with. Don’t burn bridges. People are your most valuable resource whatever career you choose to follow!
About Eliza
Eliza is the owner of two successful pet related businesses; Preferred Pet Partners, a pet sitting and dog walking company, and The Pet Business Coach, offering coaching and resources to aspiring or current pet related business entrepreneurs. She maintains two awesome blogs. One for pet parents https://preferredpetpartners.com/blog/ and one for pet business owners https://thepetbusinesscoach.dog/blog-page/. Eliza also supports various animal rescue and shelter organizations. Eliza and her husband have three furry family members. Visit her websites: www.preferredpetpartners.com or www.thepetbusinesscoach.dog.
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