Is it time to hit the reset button professionally?
Many people pursue a career out of habit or out of a desire to utilize the education that they already have. But sometimes, at a certain point, their heart just isn't in it anymore. Instead, they are drawn to pursue another field and shift away from their current desk job to something else. Whether the reason is to help others, get out of the corporate scene or turn a side hustle into a career, it's time for a change.
In today's rapidly evolving job market, this desire for change may be accelerated by recent widespread layoffs at federal, state, and corporate levels, or by companies mandating returns to office after years of remote work. Many professionals are now reassessing not just what they do, but how and where they want to work.
If you're considering a career transition, we have comprehensive resources available to support you. Visit our Career Transitions Resource Center for information, tools, and guidance to help you navigate this time.
While it would be ideal if you could just say that you want "that" job and get it, career transition is not that easy. At least, without a plan it isn't. Here are a few ideas that will help you identify your best opportunities and make that big career jump.
1. Work Your Passions
Do you have a passion for cooking? Maybe you enjoy doing hair and makeup? Or are you a weekend warrior with stellar carpentry skills? All of these talents, and many more, can be leveraged to launch a new career. Start by building a portfolio of you in action and the results of your work by posting videos on YouTube or starting your own website. This will lay a good foundation to show potential employers or clients what you are all about.
In today's economic climate, having a portfolio that demonstrates concrete results and value creation is especially critical as employers are being more selective with new hires.
2. Teach
Perhaps you have a variety of skills you can tap into, but instead of selling a product or service, you want to share your expertise with others. If you are interested in teaching what you know, try creating online courses with a platform like Skillshare or, for more lengthy courses, Academy of Mine.
The demand for online education continues to grow, offering a stable income stream that's typically unaffected by in-person work mandates.
3. Publish a Book
Are you an expert on your favorite topic? Consider writing and self-publishing a book. Amazon’s self-publishing service has made publishing your own written works easier than ever before. If you created a portfolio as part of your educational experience at TESU, your personal Google site (which is yours forever) can be a great jumping off point for writing your own book.
4. Job Split
Rather than focusing on one full-time position that might be vulnerable to layoffs, consider diversifying your income streams. If one full-time job is not working out for you, consider taking two part-time positions to build your skills in an area of interest, if you are financially able to do so, of course. Do you want to own your own retail shop but don't currently work in one? Find a part-time job where you can learn the ropes.
5. Spin Your Skills and Knowledge
There is always something from a prior job that will help you be successful at a new one, so spin what you know. I have gone from working backstage in professional theater, which led me to a public relations and marketing role in theater, which then led me to a marketing and communications role at a university, to then working as an advancement and alumni affairs professional at a university. With every step forward, I focused on the previous experience that could get me there.
In times of economic uncertainty, emphasizing your transferable skills becomes even more crucial. Highlight adaptability and resilience in your resume and interviews.
6. Leave the Guilt Behind
If you feel like you owe your college education with time in the related-field, don't feel guilty. It doesn't have to drain you. It is okay to make a fresh start in a new area of interest and gain experience by taking classes. Education is never wasted, and you may find that your previous education and knowledge is a distinctive strength in a new career.
7. Network
If I've said it once, I'll say it again and again: network, network, network. Do you know anyone who does the work you want to do? Talk to them about how they got to where they are or if they have any advice for you. Work those LinkedIn and TESU Alumni Group Facebook connections! It's what they are there for!
With many companies re-evaluating their workforce needs, personal connections have become more valuable than ever in identifying opportunities, particularly those that offer hybrid or remote work arrangements.
8. Prioritize Work-Life Balance
As companies implement return-to-office mandates, consider whether workplace flexibility aligns with your priorities. Many professionals who've experienced remote work are now seeking careers and companies that permanently offer hybrid options. When researching potential employers, investigate their workplace policies and company culture around flexibility.
Whatever you do, don't think small. This is more than a job search. Look at this as an opportunity to recalibrate the direction your life is heading. You are in control of your destiny. Good luck!
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Feeling inspired but not sure where to begin? Our Career Transitions Resource Center offers personalized guidance, industry insights, resume reviews, interview preparation, and connection opportunities with professionals who've successfully navigated career changes. Don't face this journey alone—visit our resource center today and take the first step toward your new professional chapter.
Editor's Note: This article was originally published in June 2018 and has been updated for accuracy.
Written by Meg Frantz, MPSL '20