Changing careers

The idea of starting fresh may seem daunting, but with the right approach and a clear plan, a career change can lead to greater satisfaction and long-term growthÌý

Signs it's time to change careers

There are many reasons why people decide to switch career paths. For some, it's the growing realisation that their current job no longer excites or challenges them. Others may crave a better work-life balance or more meaningful work that aligns with their personal values.ÌýÌý

Financial incentives can also play a role, especially if a new field offers better compensation or benefits.Ìý

You might find yourself dreading going to work or feeling constantly drained and uninspired. If you're regularly bored, unchallenged, or disconnected from your company's mission, those are big signs. Physical symptoms like stress-induced headaches or difficulty sleeping can also point to deeper dissatisfaction with your job.

As Natasha Stanley, head coach for Careershifters, puts it, 'think about the cost of staying stuck. Do you want to feel like this a year from now?' Her question serves as a powerful reminder that inaction has its own risks.

How to change careers

Before making a move, take some time to understand why you want to change careers. Are you running away from something or striving for something new?ÌýÌý

Evaluate your transferable skills - those abilities that apply across industries, such as:Ìý

• ³¦´Ç³¾³¾³Ü²Ô¾±³¦²¹³Ù¾±´Ç²ÔÌý
• ±ô±ð²¹»å±ð°ù²õ³ó¾±±èÌý
• problem solving.

Consider the practical aspects too: will your new career require additional education or certification? Can you financially afford to make the change now, or would it be better to plan for a few months ahead? Being honest with yourself about your goals and limitations is essential for a smooth transition.Ìý

Finding a new career

Once you're clear on your motivations, the next step is exploring what career path might be right for you.ÌýÌý

Start by taking career assessments or personality tests to uncover roles that match your strengths and interests.

It's important to research industries that are growing and talk to people already working in the field. You can also discover career change ideas by browsing job profiles.Ìý

Enquiring with your network can be especially helpful - they give you a behind-the-scenes look at what different jobs are really like. 'Ask about the challenges the industry is facing, the skills that are most valued, and the value that an 'outsider' might be able to bring,' adds Natasha.

Don't be afraid to ask questions, seek mentorship, and look for opportunities to shadow professionals if possible.Ìý

Career retraining

Depending on your chosen path, you may need to retrain or upskill to be competitive in the job market.Ìý

When looking at short courses, you'll find that microcredentials offer some excellent options, while sites such as Udemy a²Ô»å Skillshare list thousands of online courses in a range of specialisms, from digital marketing and nutrition to audio production and public speaking.Ìý

Course prices start from as little as £10 - some are even free - and offer certifications in everything from digital marketing to coding to project management.ÌýÌý

Some career changes might require a degree, but many can be achieved with targeted learning and hands-on experience. For instance, you may need to complete a conversion course and gain sector-specific qualifications to work in industries such as:Ìý

• ÌýengineeringÌý
• healthcareÌý
• ITÌý
• teaching.

Many of these courses can be completed as a Masters degree o°ù postgraduate diploma (PGDip). To see what's on offer, search postgraduate conversion courses.Ìý

Look out for postgraduate open days and events to learn more about how to enter your chosen field at postgraduate level.Ìý

If you're happy with your current work conditions but want a new challenge, you don't necessarily have to change jobs. Enquire with your HR department about any available continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities.Ìý

Finding a new career

If you've got your heart set on changing careers, the first thing you'll need to do is research. 'Join groups, communities and associations that you're curious about - many will have regular webinars and events that welcome newcomers,' explains Natasha.

Come up with suitable career change ideas by browsing job profiles. You'll be able to find out more about what's involved with different roles and their entry requirements.

Through your research, you may find that you can gain the qualifications you need without studying for another degree.

When looking at short courses, you'll find that microcredentials offer some excellent options, while sites such as Udemy and Skillshare list thousands of online courses in a range of specialisms, from digital marketing and nutrition to audio production and public speaking.

Course prices start from as little as £10 - some are even free - and you'll be able to fit studying around other commitments.

Once you know the path you'd like to pursue, you can start seeking opportunities. Update your professional social media profiles to clearly state your intention to change industries and give details of the skills and experience you have that will be well-suited.

Writing a career change CV

Your CV and cover letter are your first opportunity to tell your story. Employers won't view this as a negative move, as long as you provide solid reasons for the change.

When writing a new CV, Natasha recommends immersing yourself in the industry you're targeting. 'Talk to people in the field to get a sense of the jargon and phrases they use. The more you can 'speak the language' of your chosen profession, the more confident hiring managers will be in your ability to transition.'

Focus on highlighting your transferable skills and past achievements that relate to your new industry. To identify your strengths, Natasha advises that you 'talk to people you've worked with in the past, particularly in roles or projects you enjoyed. What did they see you do well? What would they come to you for help with? Try telling the story of a task or project you did well on, and ask them to note down any skills they hear in what you've described.'

Use a skills-based CV format to emphasise your qualities over chronological experience. Include a personal statement that clearly explains your motivation and enthusiasm for the new field. See our cover letter template for career changers for inspiration.Ìý

Tailoring your CV to each job application is especially important when making a career change, as employers will be looking for evidence that you've done your research and are serious about the switch.Ìý

See our guidance on CVs and cover letters.Ìý

Interview tips

Interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially when you're moving into a new field. Prepare by crafting a clear and confident explanation for your career change. Frame your past experiencesÌýin a way that demonstrates how they've prepared you for this new role.Ìý

For example, you could say 'after five rewarding years in marketing, where I excelled in campaigns, I'm shifting my focus to a career aligned with my passion for problem solving. I've been actively upskilling in statistical analysis and am eager to apply these skills to strategic decision-making.'

Show passion and curiosity - enthusiasm goes a long way, even if you don't have years of direct experience. Practice answering common questions and be ready to talk about what you're learning to bridge the gap. The goal is to assure the interviewer that you're not just changing on a whim, but with purpose and preparation.Ìý

For more guidance, see how to prepare for an interview.Ìý

How to hand in your notice

When it's time to move on from your current job, it's important to do so professionally. Give the appropriate amount of notice based on your contract and write a formal resignation letter. Keep it respectful and appreciative.ÌýÌý

Thank your employer for the experience and offer to help with the transition, whether that means helping to train your replacement or wrapping up key projects. Leaving on good terms helps maintain a positive reputation and could even open the door for future collaborations or references.Ìý

To help you get started, see the following notice example.Ìý

Overcoming career change fears

Fear is a natural part of making a big change, and career transitions are no exception. You might worry about starting over, taking a pay cut, or not being taken seriously.

'Ageism is usually a primary concern for later-life career changers,' says Natasha, noting that many people fear being perceived as overqualified or having outdated skills. 'Fear is usually an indicator of a lack of information. Seek out real-world data - ask the questions you most want answers to, even if they feel scary.'

Imposter syndrome is real, especially when stepping into unfamiliar territory. The key is to acknowledge your fears without letting them control your decisions.ÌýNatasha offers this perspective: 'there's a difference between imposter syndrome and being a beginner. When you focus your attention on learning and helping others, you're less likely to get caught up in worrying about whether you 'deserve' to be there.'

Plan carefully, build your support system, and remind yourself that many people have successfully changed careers - and so can you. Every risk carries some uncertainty, but with it comes the potential for growth, satisfaction, and a renewed sense of purpose.Ìý

Find out more

• Learn more about what's involved in getting a job.
• See what else you could do with your degree.
• For more support, explore Careershifters.