Today, studies have shown that most people transition into another career once in their lifetime. This means that career transitioning is a widespread phenomenon among people.
Career transitioning refers to changing one’s career path or job to pursue a different field or industry. It involves making a deliberate shift in your professional life, often to explore new opportunities, develop new skills, or pursue a passion.
In the 21st century, career transitions have become more frequent and dynamic due to technological advancements, economic shifts, and evolving job markets. For example, we have people who studied medical-related courses in higher institutions now employed in the financial and technological sectors, etc.
In this article, we’ll be discussing the five approaches to consider when settling into another career-
1 – Research and explore:
Learn about the skills and qualifications required for the new industry. Research the industry trends. Attend workshops, webinars, etc, to garner insights. The Skilled For Work Academy by I-Train Africa has free resources (5 video lessons) on the workplace foundational skills program that can help with clarity and skills mapping, an exercise you perform to know the gap in your qualifications and skills.
2 – Discover your portable skills:
This means figuring out and recognizing the skills/abilities you have gained from previous experiences that will be useful in your newly chosen career. They can be skills like- communication, use of Microsoft Office apps, critical thinking, etc. These are foundational workplace skills at the Skilled For Work Academy by I-Train Africa.
3 – Strategic Planning:
This involves creating a well-thought-out career plan with short-term and long-term goals, i.e., thoroughly analyzing your goals and devising a plan to work with. It requires understanding the transition’s purpose, defining the steps to achieve your objectives, and regularly reassessing and adjusting your strategy based on your evolving skills and aspirations. Career transition should take place by adequately planning your path and understanding the purpose for which you’re changing your career in the first place.
4 – Seek guidance and support-
It’s essential to leverage the support provided by people who already made a path for themselves in your newly chosen field. Reach out to mentors, career coaches, or professionals in your desired field. Their insights and advice can provide valuable guidance throughout your transition.
5 – Be patient and adaptable:
Transitioning into a new career takes time and effort. Be open to learning, adapt to new challenges, and stay positive. Remember that each step forward is progress toward your new career goals.
Conclusively, it’s important to note that transitioning into a new career requires a deliberate shift and mindset, and that’s why we have curated the above little nuggets of advice to help you along the way.
Wishing you all the very best as you start on this journey.
Are you a youth or woman looking to start a new career path? Are you a 9-5 worker who needs to gain the workplace skills required in your new career path?
Are you a stay-at-home mum who wants to change her path?
Then you should check out Skilled For Work (SFW), a finishing school for literate youths and women starting their careers or transitioning who hope to gain 21st-century, in-demand workplace skills to become globally employable.
This is the right place to start because we offer clarity and guidance before teaching you the needed skills.
As written by I-Train Africa 2024