Choosing to change careers can be a daunting and stressful decision in your professional life. If you have put in the time, effort and money into building your current career, understandably, the decision to change tact is a significant one to make. Given that your work life will realistically continue into your 60s or 70s, the benefits of making a career move in your 20s or 30s may far outweigh any nerves you are feeling.
There are several reasons to change careers between 25-35:
1. Your interests have changed:
New industries and careers are always emerging, and it would be reasonable to assume that one of them could be exciting to you. If the industry you become interested in is growing quickly, it would be wise to consider a change now, as you will be able to grow with the industry, gain new knowledge, and be more invested in your work.
2. You want to make more money:
By your mid-20s or your mid-30s, you may have accumulated student loans, a mortgage, and a pile of bills. While money is not the most important thing in life, it is still a necessity. With a career change, you may find that you are happier and making a decent living at the same time.
3. You no longer feel challenged:
As you approach your mid-twenties and thirties, it is important that you feel your job is testing your abilities and making your day feel fulfilling. People often stay in a mundane position, doing the same thing every day, for decades. Rather than wasting time in a job that doesn’t match your talents, find a role that challenges you and helps you to reach your full potential.
4. You’re burnt out:
Sometimes, you give all you’ve got to a company and a job to the point where you’ve got nothing left to offer anymore. Burnout is not something that can be remedied by days off and short breaks. Switching careers at this point could be the fresh start you need.
Now that you’re considering making a change, there are several things you’ll need to take into account.
Start with these four steps:
- 1. Research: Beginning looking for new careers that are emerging and have skill-shortages. Perhaps revisit a past career you wanted to try, but for whatever reason, couldn’t pursue at the time. Talk to people in these areas to gain an understanding of the knowledge and skills the role may require.
- 2. Be practical: Do you need to consider upskilling and undertaking further studying? Choosing to undertake adiploma or double diploma will increase your chances of success when entering a new career. In most instances, the benefits of further study when changing careers outweigh any negative. Nowadays, most courses are available online, so you’ll be able to continue working and earning money, while still gaining skills that will be crucial when the time comes for your career swap.The right qualification will give you the education and confidence you need to set you apart from other candidates.
- 3. Don’t expect too much too fast: You might have been a high-profile, top-earner in your previous job, having worked hard for years to get where you are. Starting in a new career will sometimes mean you need to adjust your expectations. Don’t be dismayed if your salary goes down at first. If your job is fulfilling and you can afford your expenses, it will be worth the adjustment while you find your feet in a new position.
- 4. Have a clear goal in mind: There is no point starting on a new path if you don’t have some idea about where you want it to lead you. Talking to a career coach or mentor is a good way to decide what you want your career path to look like two, five or ten years from now. Gaining clarity now will help you make smart decisions that drive you towards the end result.
Switching careers at any age can be intimidating. If you’re going to change careers, your 20s and 30 are the best time. Study online to gain fresh knowledge and help yourself get closer to realising new career goals.