Stuck in a job you hate? Making a career change might not feel like the smartest move right now, but it is possible. Find out how to change careers in the Covid economy here. Make the change today.
6 Steps on how to Change Careers in the Covid Economy
Every career has been given a major blow due to Covid-19. If you are working or have just entered the workforce, you may be wondering how this will affect your future. Take control by following the steps listed below:
- Do an Evaluation
- Back to Basics
- Narrow Your Focus
- Acquire new Skills
- Prepare Your job Search Tools
- Start the job Process
Step 1: Do an Evaluation
Before you dive into the deep end, first reflect on your current situation. Ask yourself the questions below to identity if a career change is the right move:
Will a Career Change be the Answer to my Challenges?
A career move may seem like the best choice, but it will come with its own set of challenges. Consider if you are unhappy with your career or perhaps just the organisation you are working for.
Is now the Right Time?
If your career has been hit by the pandemic then you might be forced to change careers. For example, if you are in the tourism industry it might be smart to find an alternative job option.
Will I be Able to Handle the Unexpected Challenges?
Changing careers comes with setbacks. You will need to have a network, new skills and financial support during this time. Consider finding strategies for these potential issues.
Is it Worth it?
Will the pay-off be worth the potential risks? You may be hit with a lot of obstacles in the beginning, but a career change may fit in with your long-term career goals better.
Step 2: Back to Basics
Once you have done a self-evaluation, it is time to get back to basics. This entails identifying what your interests, skills and goals are.
What Soft Skills do I Currently Have?
Soft skills are transferable skills that can be used in any workplace. Things like time-management, good communication and organisational skills are good examples of this.
Which Hard Skills do I Currently Have?
Your hard skills consist of the education and official training you have had. Listing your hard skills will make it easy to identify which industries you already fit into.
Which Skills am I Interested in Building?
This could be completely new skills or skills you would like to strengthen. A short course is a great idea to improve on your skills, fast.
What are my Biggest Career Accomplishments?
This might be a hard one, but look back to your performance reviews or compliments you have gotten from colleagues. Getting a sense of what you are good at will help you settle on a new career easier.
Which Tasks do I Enjoy Doing Most?
You don’t need to make a career path out of your passions, but it does help to have a job that includes duties you actually like doing.
Do I Have a Dream job?
Make a list of your dream jobs. Some of them may seem unrealistic but once you put it on paper, you may realise that they are within reach.
Step 3: Narrow Your Focus
Now that you have done a self-assessment and professional evaluation, you can move onto narrowing down a few job titles you think could work.
This needs to align with your current skill set and values. If you are not skilled in this field yet, consider if you will be able to get training in it within your given timeframe.
Step 4: Acquire new Skills
Upskilling yourself is essential for surviving in the workplace post-covid. Listed below are some of the top skills employers will need once the pandemic has settled down:
- Tech savviness
- Data literacy
- Critical thinking
- Leadership
- Adaptability
Step 5: Prepare Your job Search Tools
Have a look at your resume, CV and cover letter. Now is the time to give specific examples of how you have adapted to change and how you have taken initiative.
Update Your Resume
Customize your resume for each job you are applying to. Show off your transferable skills and how it will relate to your new role.
Build a Strong General Resume
Have a strong general resume that shows off how your skills and experience will help you adapt to new situations. Give clear examples and avoid any trendy or vague language.
Step 6: Start the job Process
Finally! The final step is to start applying for jobs. You are ready to take on the change now. So set the following guidelines to monitor your success:
Set Weekly Application Goals
Set weekly goals. This may be to apply for three jobs a week or even 20. It depends on what you can manage. Have a look at how to set career goals guidelines.
Follow up on Your Applications
Don’t wait for recruiters to let you know. Giving the company a call not only shows that you are invested, but also gives you peace of mind.
Be Persistent
Job hunting is not easy. So prepare for the mental strain it will have. But don’t give up. Your persistence will pay off.
Keep Interview Skills Updated
Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready. While waiting for your interview, spruce up your interview skills. To prepare, have a look at our interview tips.
Thrive no Matter What!
Keep your skills updated and sign up for our courses. We offer the best in distance learning education. Contact us on:
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- Or fill out this contact form for a call back
