What Are the Essential Steps for Women to Take Before Making a Major Career Change?

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Before a career change, assess skills and passions, research deeply, update qualifications, and network in the target field. Gain related experience, refresh your resume and LinkedIn, prepare financially, seek mentorship, set realistic goals, and stay positive. Always adapt and learn.

Before a career change, assess skills and passions, research deeply, update qualifications, and network in the target field. Gain related experience, refresh your resume and LinkedIn, prepare financially, seek mentorship, set realistic goals, and stay positive. Always adapt and learn.

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Kelly Huang
Career Pivot Coach at CoachKellyHuang.com
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Louise Neil
Career Empowerment Coach, Founder at Pivoting Point Career Solutions
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Assess Your Skills and Passions

Before making a significant career change, evaluate your current skills, strengths, and areas you are passionate about. Understanding what you excel at and what you love doing is crucial in finding a career that will be fulfilling in the long term.

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Conduct Thorough Research

Research the industry you’re interested in transitioning into. Look into the required qualifications, the industry's future outlook, potential salary ranges, and the daily responsibilities of your desired role. Knowledge about your chosen field will guide you in making an informed decision.

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Update Your Qualifications

Depending on the new career path, you may need additional qualifications or certifications. Identify any gaps in your skillset and consider enrolling in courses or obtaining certifications that will make you more competitive in your new field.

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Build a Network in Your New Field

Start networking with professionals who are already working in your target industry. Attend industry-specific events, join relevant online communities, and even reach out for informational interviews. Networking can provide valuable insights and open doors to new opportunities.

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Gain Experience

If possible, gain some experience in your new field before making a full transition. This could be through volunteering, internships, or part-time work. Relevant experience will not only bolster your resume but also give you a clearer idea of whether this career change is right for you.

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Kelly Huang
Career Pivot Coach at CoachKellyHuang.com
Thu, 05/30/2024 - 13:45

In coaching those returning to work after taking a break, one of my best tip is to do "Value-added Volunteering." When you are looking to join a new industry or take on a new role, look for ways to help out at a conference where you get to meet those in the new industry, "rehearse" for the new role by substituting for those that are out of the office/on leave, or bring together luminaries you'd like to meet by setting up a lunch and learn.

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Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Craft your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect your new career direction. Highlight transferable skills and any relevant experience, even if it's not directly related to your new field. Tailor your professional narrative to showcase your enthusiasm and capability for this career pivot.

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Prepare for Financial Implications

A career change may involve a period of reduced income or the need for further education. It's important to review your finances and possibly set aside a financial cushion to support yourself during this transition period. Planning ahead financially can alleviate stress and focus on your career goals.

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Seek Mentorship

Find a mentor who has successfully navigated a similar career change or who is established in your desired field. A mentor can offer invaluable advice, encouragement, and potentially even facilitate networking opportunities or job leads.

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Set Realistic Goals and Expectations

Be realistic about what this career change entails, including the potential challenges and the time it may take to fully transition into your new role. Setting clear, achievable goals can help maintain focus and momentum.

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Stay Positive and Resilient

A major career change is a significant life decision that may come with setbacks or challenges. Maintaining a positive attitude and resilience in the face of adversity is crucial. Be prepared to adapt and learn from any situation, keeping your ultimate career goals in sight.

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What else to take into account

This section is for sharing any additional examples, stories, or insights that do not fit into previous sections. Is there anything else you'd like to add?

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Louise Neil
Career Empowerment Coach, Founder at Pivoting Point Career Solutions
Thu, 05/30/2024 - 11:20

These are all reall good steps to consider but it gets hard to update your resmue or LinkedIn before you know what you want. Start with Network and Explore by actively engaging to gain real-life insights and firsthand information about your desired field. Then assess what you really want. Reflect on what’s working and what isn’t in your current role. Remember, the grass isn't always greener on the other side; it’s greener where you water it. Get yourself some real-life data! Seek opportunities for job shadowing, internships, or volunteer work to experience the daily realities of your new career path.

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