How to go about a career or job change

By Suraj Oyewale via https://www.10MinutesWith.com

The last time I talked about when to make career or job change. I am following up with HOW to make that change. Sticking with a job you're no longer enthusiastic about can leave an ugly dent on your career. So, once you start to notice the signs that you need a job or career change, the smartest thing to do is to follow your heart and make that change as soon as possible.

Now, realising that you need a change is one thing, but understanding how to go about making that change is another. If you're looking to switch your job or career to a more fulfilling option, here are the right steps to take:

1. Decide on your destination

It's a no-brainer that you must have a destination in mind before leaving your present location. The same runs true for making a job or career switch; before leaving your present job or career, you must have figured out what you want to do next.

If you have multiple ideas about where you'll like to go next, narrow down your options and make a decision. However, you need to factor in your strengths and weaknesses as well as your passion. You also need to decide whether you still want to work for an employer or start your own business. With all these in mind, you'd be able to get a clearer picture of where you’re heading to.

2. Upgrade your skills set

After deciding on where you're heading to, your next step is to assess your skills and compare them with what your new job or career requires. Do you have the right skill set to succeed in your new venture? If you're lacking in some of the required skills, then you need to improve yourself by acquiring them.

For example, if you're looking to start a new career as a database manager, you might need to take professional courses in database management to improve your skills.

3. Approach a mentor

Only few people have achieved resounding success without the guidance of a mentor. To ensure a smooth transition into your new job or career, you need to find a mentor to provide you with the guidance and support you need. Whether you're changing jobs or starting your own business, you'll always need a mentor to succeed.

Find someone with vast experience in the job or career you're switching to. Ask them lots of questions. And listen carefully to whatever they reveal to you. A lot of things might have changed since the time they started out, but most basic principles have remained unchanged.

4. Expand your network

Start building a support network even before quitting your present job. Though you might have lost interest in the job itself, try to maintain strong links with your present employer and colleagues. You never know, but they might link you up with a lot of clients if you're starting your own business.

Always remember that contacts of any kind are never useless. Seize every opportunity to meet new people who may become your future employers or clients or link you up with them.

5. Write out your plan

Having taken all the previous steps, you need to outline how you will eventually make the job or career transition. If you're looking to switch in the next six months, draft a timeline of the step you'll take towards achieving your goal.

Writing down your goals alone can give you all the motivation you need to take action at the right time. It also helps you keep your long term goals in sight, so you don't lose focus. When writing down your goals, make them SMART (specific, measurable, accurate, realistic, and time-bound).

Now that you understand what steps to take to change your job or career, start taking them right away to free yourself from the worries of your present job.

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