Do you feel you are at a careers crossroads?  Maybe not completely fulfilled by your current job?  Do you want to make changes and push forward with your plans as soon as possible?

If your answer to these questions is yes, you may want to use the following seven tips to change your career path. They could help you to change your career path for the better.  It might be an intimidating prospect, but if you plan ahead, think positive, and keep your cool, you are will be on the right track to securing success.

With a wide range of courses such as GCSEs, Digital Technology, Accounting, Apprenticeships, and Access To Higher Education, ACL Essex can help you achieve your career goals.  For further information browse all our Qualifications & Skills for Employment courses or contact us find out more about how ACL can help.

Alternatively, for one to one careers bespoke careers guidance contact the National Careers Service by emailing NationalCareersServiceNCC@futuresforyou.com or calling 0800 917 94 19.

Here are seven tips for changing your career plan:

1. Work out what it is you don’t like about your current job

Before you do anything else, you will need to work out what it is you don’t like about your current job. It will save you from making the same mistake over and over again. Overhauling your career path is a big step to take, so the last thing you want is to end up in exactly the same position. That is why you should write a detailed account of everything your current job lacks. You could also try keeping a journal, as this will allow you to make daily entries that explore your grievances. Then, when it comes to finding your new profession, you will have a clear idea of the areas that you are unwilling to compromise on. Whether you decide never to work long hours again, never to put up with a demanding boss, or never to make do with a tiring commute, the most important thing is that you know your limits.

2. Get your personal finances in order

The next step is to get your personal finances in order. Doing so will make it so much easier for you to explore your options, as you won’t be under the pressure of paying off your debts or maintaining a lavish lifestyle. Although it is important that you consider your pay packet and secure the best wage possible, you also need to remember that money isn’t everything. Sometimes accepting a lesser wage is worth it if you get to take on a job that you truly love. Alternatively, if more money is a strong incentive for you leaving your current position, you may be required to hold out until you get the wage that you desire. Once again you will benefit from having your personal finances in order, as you will have more negotiating power to work with.

3. Explore jobs in different sectors

If you are ready for a total change, you should explore jobs in a different sector to the one that you are currently working in. There is no better way for you to shake up your career path and to discover a new area of interest. Don’t worry, finding out about a new field is much simpler than it sounds. You can access all of the information you require online. This is an excellent opportunity for you to get your first foot on the career ladder. While it might be tempting to stick to what you know, in order to achieve your goals you will need to venture outside of your comfort zone.

4. Write up a list of pros and cons

Once you have a few ideas flying about, you should write up a list of pros and cons for each role in question. This strategy will help you to maintain a calm and clear mindset, as you will have all of the key facts laid out in front of you. If you are determined to hold yourself accountable, you should ask a reliable loved one to lend their support. With any luck, they will force you to confront reality head-on. They should also be able to provide points that you might not have thought of independently. However, you will still need to operate outside of your pros and cons. Although these lists are an effective tool, it is possible that your heart will make the final decision.

5. Take inspiration from those around you

Another vital step is to take inspiration from those around you. Ideally, you should find someone who has also experienced a drastic career change. If this change has been successful, you will be able to use it as a constant source of motivation. Or, if it has been less than satisfactory, you will be able to learn from your loved one’s mistakes. Of course, you will be required to forge your own path, but it will be so much easier for you to do this if you have a strong system of support to fall back on.

6. Find a career mentor

In addition to leaning on your friends and family, you should also be on the lookout for a career mentor. It should be someone in your chosen profession who is willing to help you on your way. If you are wondering where to find such a person, you could start by attending high profile networking events. This is the perfect opportunity for you to put your feelers out. Alternatively, you could go online to check out helpful forums, newsletters, and blog posts. Even if you can’t get direct access to a mentor, you could still benefit from reading their online material, buying their books, and emailing them a couple of questions.

7. Get away from it all

Finally, you should take the time to get away from it all. Depending on your financial status and your current lifestyle, this might not be the easiest avenue to pursue. However, if you are relatively free, you should think about taking an adult gap year. This could be an incredible opportunity for you to work out what it is you want from life. Rather than diving in at the deep end, an adult gap year will give you the chance to pace yourself. You will also find that you return to your working life with a more positive outlook, an increased sense of self-confidence, and a whole host of amazing experiences to draw from.

(source: www.iagonline.org June 2020)