Blog

4 tips on successfully changing careers: Advice from an expert

June 18, 2020

An Indeed study found that 87 percent of Canadians who changed careers are happier with their new professional trajectory. So if you’ve been thinking about following a new career path, consider this your sign to do so — or, at the very least, to see what options you have available.

Read on for four tips to help you transition smoothly into the career of your dreams.

How to change your career in 4 simple steps

Do your research

The most fulfilling careers start with a bit of soul-searching.

How can you leverage your passions, interests, and skills in a new industry or a new role? Once you’ve narrowed down your career options, you’ll want to make sure that these opportunities are ones you can see yourself in for years to come.

If you know someone who works in that field, ask them questions about their line of work. What do they like about it? What challenges do they face? Do these positions require certain qualifications or certifications?

If you don’t know someone in that industry, consider taking on one or two short-term volunteer opportunities to see for yourself what the job is like.

Enroll in a career college

Not all jobs will require you to have certifications or extensive experience, but it certainly helps. When you’re in the middle of a career change, however, that experience is hard to come by.

That’s where relevant college courses come in. Taking classes that prepare you for your new career can be the thing that gets your foot in the door during the hiring process.

Build your professional network now

In many cases, landing a job offer is more about who you know instead of what you know.

While this can discourage the average job seeker, an extensive professional network can give you the advantage you need to change careers sooner rather than later. One stellar recommendation can put your application ahead of everyone else’s, so don’t underestimate this.

As an adult at the peak of your professional life, your network may already be a valuable resource to tap into. But if not, don’t fret. Spend 15 minutes each day reaching out to colleagues and mutual connections online, and you can grow your network without leaving the comfort of your home.

Update your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile

Brush up your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn page for the career you want, not the career you have now. Ensure that they highlight your accomplishments and any quantitative achievements, so hiring managers can get a better sense of your work ethic.

As you’re switching careers, you may not have all the technical qualifications you need (yet). Instead, you’ll want to highlight your “soft skills” — the character traits you possess that make you an ideal candidate for your dream job.

Take steps towards your new career with AlphaLogic

AlphaLogic Career College was established in 2005 in London, Ontario. Since then, we’ve helped students take huge strides towards a career they can be proud of.

Choose your new career path from the many tracks we offer, including the Medical Office Assistant, Dispatcher, and Automotive Service Specialist programs. Your instructors combine their university education with expertise gained from their own careers to deliver a student-centered learning experience.

At traditional colleges and universities, it’s easy for students to fall through the cracks because of huge classroom sizes and a lack of resources.

However, at AlphaLogic, every student receives personalized instruction throughout their program. Graduates also receive one-on-one counseling to find opportunities that best fit their training and career preferences.

We don’t just give you the skills you need for your new career. We focus on your success, from your first day of class and even after you walk the stage on graduation day.

Is a career change in your future? Contact us through the form on our website or send an email to info@alphalogic.ca, and we can help you with any questions or concerns you have.

Career college student interested in changing careers