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If you’ve grown disillusioned with your current career and want to do something different, this article is for you. Here, we’ll discuss the various things you can do to achieve your dream of moving into a new niche or sector. Here they are:
Assess Your Desire for a Change
First, go over why you want to transition to another career. If it’s because you don’t like your current job, try to clarify what aspects of that job you dislike. If it’s because you intend to pursue something more fulfilling, define what that alternative is. And if you decide that your skills are better applied and appreciated elsewhere, you’ll need to define those abilities and what kind of roles in which they’re better rewarded. Your reasons for wanting to switch might also include work-life balance and creative freedom. When you understand your reasons for seeking a career change, you’ll know what to look for in a potential new job.Explore Your Interests and Strengths
Your next step will be to find out what career path (or paths) lay at the intersection of your interests, strengths, and values. Start by researching industries that are attractive to you, and identifying job roles that can make the best use of your skills. We advise that you take career and personality tests that can help you decide what kind of jobs fit your temperament and strengths. Examples are tests centred on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or StrengthsFinder.Evaluate Your Current Skills
At 30, you have probably gained some skills through training and on-the-job experience. You have to review those skills to see what’s transferable to a role in your new niche or industry, and what fresh skills you might need to learn. Find out what qualifications and certifications are required of people in that space, and aim to acquire them. In many instances, you will be able to learn the requisite skills through online platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning.Set Clear and Achievable Goals
An important part of learning how to change your career path at 30 is figuring out your goals for the short, medium, and long term. Your ultimate aim of settling down into a new role may seem barely reachable from your present vantage point. But if you break the journey down into smaller steps (that you can complete in shorter periods), you’ll find that it’s easier to achieve. Here’s what this breakdown could look like.Sign up for the Connect Nigeria daily newsletter
- Short-term goals: These might include researching new careers, identifying skills you need, and completing an online course.
- Medium-term goals: These could include networking with professionals in the new field, updating your resume, and applying for jobs.
- Long-term goals: Consider where you want to be in 3 to 5 years. Do you want to be fully settled into your new career or continue learning and growing in that space?
Build and Engage Your Network
Having a network that’s well plugged into your desired career may prove valuable. But even your existing contacts are a great place to start. Speak with friends, colleagues or mentors who can provide insights and referrals. Also, update your LinkedIn profile, and use that channel to link up with people in your new industry. Make sure to become an active part of that industry’s community on LinkedIn by participating in discussions and groups.Start Small and Be Patient
Changing careers at 30 doesn’t necessarily mean starting from scratch. You might find an entry-level role, but it’s more likely you’ll enter the new field in a position that leverages your prior experience. Explore internships, contract roles, or part-time positions if they align with your goals. Be patient with yourself and embrace the learning curve. It may take time to build credibility in your new field, but persistence and commitment can pay off.Update Your CV and Online Presence
After you have acquired new skills and experiences, you’ll want to update your CV, LinkedIn profile, and portfolio (if applicable). Tailor your CV to highlight transferable skills and experiences relevant to your new career, even if your past job titles are unrelated. Emphasize your ability to learn quickly, adapt, and work in diverse environments.Consider Financial Implications
Making a career change often requires a financial investment, especially if you’re taking a pay cut to gain experience in a new field. Plan your finances accordingly by creating a budget and saving up an emergency fund if necessary. You might also consider freelance work to bridge the gap while you transition. This will allow you to gain experience in the new field while maintaining income.Register to attend the CN Business Mixer
Final Words
The truth about learning how to change your career path at 30 is that it’s challenging. But it’s doable, as numerous people across various sectors have demonstrated. You too can make the transition to a field that you truly love. This article has shown you how.Got a suggestion? Contact us: editor@connectnigeria.com
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