If the events of these last two years have inspired you to transition careers, you’re not alone. Fidelity’s annual Financial Resolutions Study reveals that around 40 percent of surveyed U.S. professionals want to switch jobs at some point this year, proving the Great Resignation that first took off in 2021 will continue to build traction.
Whether it’s due to chronic mental burnout, a negative workplace culture, not enough pay or benefits, a need for more balance and flexibility, or a desire to chase your real passion, there are many reasons to pursue a job change. However, before you make this pivot, you’ll want to plan ahead to maximize your chances of success. Here are four action steps to follow for an effective, rewarding career transition in 2022.
Table of Contents
Maintain Established Connections and Nurture New Ones
If you want to secure a foot in the door of a new industry, form relationships with influential leaders in your chosen field. It’s not all about who you know—but these connections can help you break into a business that otherwise might feel out of reach. In other words, it’s time to start building yourself a professional network.
Don’t just send out a few cold emails to recruiters and call it a day, though. Intentionally nurture these connections to establish a strong, mutually beneficial relationship, so the other person feels confident vouching for you as a reference. As you create this network, focus on both existing clients, mentor or colleagues who know the value you bring to the table. That said, don’t be afraid to initiate conversations with new contacts on platforms such as LinkedIn and offer to buy them coffee in exchange for career advice.
Invest Some Time and Effort into Upskilling Your Resumé
In order to bill yourself as a marketable candidate who will stand out to employers in a large, competitive talent pool, you need the right skillsets on your resumé. But in this digital-first era, you don’t have to audit a college class or enroll in an expensive training seminar to learn these skills—there are many free or affordable e-courses available online. Here are some of the skills Indeed lists as some of the most sought-after in the workplace:
- Graphic and UX/UI design
- Copywriting
- Video and podcast creation
- Social media marketing
- Coding
- Cloud computing
- Website design
- Chatbot development
- Photography
- Data analytics and SEO
Be Smart About the Exit Strategy from Your Current Role
While a career switch does usher in exciting new opportunities, there can also be financial risks associated with the change. Before you leap headfirst into this next endeavor, review your finances to determine if this is the time to make a change, then develop a thoughtful exit plan to smoothly transition out of your current job.
Of course, it’s ideal to have another role secured prior to turning in your two-weeks notice, but if you choose to quit and live off savings as you look for a new position, there are a few logistical considerations to think about. For instance: How much do you need to cover basic expenses like housing, food, gas and insurance? How long can you afford these living costs without a steady income? What benefits will you lose upon quitting (e.g. healthcare, education reimbursement)? Factor all these in when formulating your exit plan.
Find a New Company that Will Give You Tools to Succeed
As you change career paths, it’s important to look for companies that align with your core values and empower you to succeed. After all, there’s a reason you chose to make a switch in the first place—because you want to grow, advance, and take on new challenges or responsibilities. You don’t want to feel unmotivated or stagnant. Concorde Investment Services, LLC offers the following guidelines to help determine if a certain organization has the tools you need to level up:
- Growth Rate: Does the organization share your ambition to scale their influence, bottom line, and overall success? You can find out by looking at their annual growth rate. Aim for companies with a 15–45 percent year-over-year improvement.
- Business Logistics: What are the daily processes and internal operations like at this organization? Research the company’s revenue models, tech resources, payment methods, administrative support, and other logistical functions.
- Company Culture: How would the current employees describe the office environment and team dynamics at this organization? It’s crucial to have these conversations on the front-end, so you’ll know if the culture aligns with your priorities.
Set Yourself Up for Success with a Job Change in 2022
Whether your goal is to switch companies or pivot industries altogether, these tips will help streamline your transition as much as possible. Career shifts can be daunting, but new opportunities are also full of excitement. So whatever job changes are on the horizon for you in 2022, set yourself up for a successful launch.