6 mistakes to avoid when making a career change

If you’re concerned about job security, a career change to a whole new industry could seem tempting.

But before you leave a job to make a swift move to a new industry, there are six potential pitfalls to consider as follows:

1. Making a rash decision

Before you hand in your resignation, map out a plan and some goals. Don’t just rush into a career change without reflecting on yourself and get a sense of what other careers would be your future path.

Take a look at your own skills, interests and values. You can find career and personality quizzes online, or it could be worth seeing a career coach to determine career paths that suit you. Also, you can speak to people in any industry you’re eyeing to see if it’s right for you.

2. Changing careers because you dislike your current job

Are there other issues at play making you unhappy in your work? If so, it’s possible that a career change isn’t the best or only solution.

Before rushing into anything, reflect on your situation to see if a career change is really needed.

Rather than jumping ship, there could be small changes that make a huge difference to your happiness in your job. Perhaps it’s talking to your boss about having more autonomy, finding new projects for variety, or finding ways to resolve a clash with someone.

You might also benefit from a sideways career move: doing the same role in a different organisation or industry.

3. Changing careers without research or self-reflection

Careers take time and effort to establish, so it’s worth putting in time to make sure a change is right, too. Changing careers without doing research is no different from walking into a jungle blindfolded.

Start with online research, then try to speak to people in those fields about what the work is like. These insights from people in the industry will ensure you are making an informed choice.

4. Changing careers for the money

Income is of course important, but try not to make your decision based on the highest pay.

Ideally, a new role should match your interests, values, and strengths. To achieve that ‘career sweet spot’, you need to be energised by what you’re doing. Also, it needs to meet your values and it needs to allow you to live the lifestyle that you want.

5. Being overly influenced by others

Friends, family, colleagues and people in industries you’re interested in can be great sources of information or encouragement, so talking to them is important.

Be mindful, though, that family and friends may not understand why you feel the need for a career change. Even when people around you are well-meaning, try not to be too influenced by them. You should be true to yourself and choose what is best for you because you are the only one who knows best about yourself.

6. Not adjusting your approach

Before you apply for new roles in different fields, update your resume and online profiles. Add or highlight your transferable skills, relevant training and experience, so a future employer can see your ability to do the job without specific experience.

Change can be exciting, but a truly rewarding career change takes some planning and preparation first. That way, you can push forward with a clearer idea that you’re headed in the right direction.