Thinking about a career change but not sure where to start? You’re not alone. Many of us reach a point where we feel the need for a new direction, whether it’s to find greater purpose, better balance, or simply a new challenge.  

Changing careers is something I’ve done a couple of times, and I know how overwhelming it can feel at first. It’s a mix of excitement, doubt, and countless questions about what may come next. I hope this blog helps you take command of your own journey and answers some questions you may have.  

Before jumping into advice, I want to acknowledge that just thinking about a career change is a bold first step! If you’re reading this, you’re on the right track.  

Now, here are a few pieces of advice for anyone considering making the leap to a new career.   

Leverage your existing experience and skill sets   

Many skills are transferrable to other jobs and even new industries, so look at the skill sets and knowledge you already possess. You can build on these to ease your transition to a different career or a more rewarding path in your current field. The takeaway here is that it’s easier to pivot than start from scratch!  

For example, I started as an executive assistant at a construction company, where I also handled payroll, workers’ comp, and union contracts. That position gave me exposure to both administrative and financial operations. And it made me a good fit for a subsequent new role, where I worked in the business office of a senior living facility, managing the books, payroll, employee relations, and more.  

Over time, I realized I was naturally gravitating toward the people side of the business world. This blend of experience helped me successfully transition from accounting to human resources (and ultimately, to talent recruiting). Leveraging existing experience made my career shift feel less like a leap and more like a natural next step. 

Find a mentor 

A mentor can be a sounding board, an advocate, a source of encouragement, and an inside connection to new opportunities – especially when you’re navigating uncertainty or considering a major change.  

When I was working as a staff accountant, a former manager later became a trusted mentor. He encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and explore an HR career. He saw strengths in me that I hadn’t fully recognized and gave me the confidence to pursue a path I might not have considered on my own. His guidance helped me take that first step toward something new.  

Some job seekers find mentors by requesting informational interviews with leaders in the fields they are pursuing. Many established professionals welcome the opportunity to share their knowledge and advice with people who are eager to enter their industries. People also find mentors through networking events. Sometimes, all you need to do is ask!

Invest in learning and upskilling   

Take classes or pursue training or certifications that will prepare you for a new role on your desired career path. Not only do these efforts increase your knowledge, but they also show potential employers that you’re serious about making a successful and impactful transition into their organizations.  

There are many accessible learning and career advancement options out there. LinkedIn Learning offers a wealth of online resources that can help you get started and move forward at your own pace. Local colleges often have certificate programs tailored to working professionals.  

I personally completed my HR Manager Certification through Bryant University, which provided a solid foundation in my chosen field, and I later took an SHRM Prep course that helped me pass my SHRM exam on the first try. These steps gave me both the confidence and credentials to move forward in a rewarding field.   

If you have a particular role or field in mind, do an online search for leading training courses and certifications that can add to your skill set and make you more marketable to hiring companies.

Apply anyway   

This is one of my most important pieces of advice: Never let a job posting, job description, or job application scare you off just because you don’t meet every single requirement! Many job postings are more of a wish list than a checklist that candidates must meet. Employers are often looking for someone who is a strong overall fit, rather than someone who ticks every single box.  

If you’re confident in your abilities, eager to learn, and willing to bet on yourself, chances are you’ll find a hiring decision maker who’s willing to bet on you, too. Sometimes, it just takes one hiring manager or recruiter to see your potential and personal brand and give you that first opportunity to prove yourself.  

Ease your transition with solid guidance from a recruiter  

Have you made a successful career change? What transition tips would you add to my list?  

Are you considering a career change? What questions are on your mind?  

Contact me and let’s start a conversation! I am a senior recruiting partner with Goodwin Recruiting. As a human resources expert, I have insights and connections into numerous industries and job opportunities, and I’m passionate about providing career advice and helping others land their dream jobs. Together, we can get you on a solid path to your next professional destination.