If you are reading this article, it means one of two things. You either just graduated with a degree that you are not the biggest fan of and you have no idea what to do next with it, or you are working a 9 to 5 that you don't like and can’t seem to find a way out of it.

 

Did I guess correctly?

 

We’ve all been there. Did you know that 73% of the world's population actually works in something completely different from what they studied? So you are, most definitely, not alone in this journey. We can start this journey with a few questions to help you understand why you're even thinking about shifting your career. This way, we can start with the right goals in mind and our priorities straight. After that, we offer you a complete guide to a career shift.

 

Get your priorities straight

1. Why do you want to shift your career? 

2. What do you expect from this career shift?

3. Are you ready for the risks that come with any career shift?

4. Do you have a backup plan? 

 

For every decision in life you need to take, you should always prepare a plan B (and C, and D) so that you are more confident with your choice.

 

Answering these questions will define the direction of your journey. You need to have realistic expectations for this change. For example, think of the salary you'll be making, how your lifestyle would be, or if it would offer growth opportunities… you name it.

 

Big decisions like this one will come with risks, and you should be ready. So, take some time and answer these questions. Write them down. Scribble your thoughts, dreams, and worries on them. Once you’re done, head on to the next step!

 

 

Your Complete Guide to a Successful Career Shift:

1. Don’t quit your job right away

The biggest mistake most people make is that they quit their jobs too soon. When you have a new and exciting dream, leaving your old life behind sounds exciting. But it's not always the best idea to quit everything with no plan or a backup. Big decisions like career shifts take time, and we all know that time costs money. So, the best thing you can do is to research and plan your next step. Just get ready for the shift while you are STILL employed.

 

2. Consider taking a diploma

Did you know that in order to take a master's or diploma in a specific major, you don’t need to have a bachelor's in that particular field? (This doesn’t apply to all careers, such as those in the medical field, but it applies to most.) This would be the perfect opportunity to find some education or diploma to help you take your first step toward your dream. 

 

If you do not know where to start looking, Educatly can help you. Sign up to Educatly, and browse through more than 40,000 study abroad programs (online and on-campus) from the top universities all over the world. Let our platform show you all the possibilities and help you get there!

  
3. Network, ask around, dive deep

You know, research isn’t only about a Google search or a Buzzfeed article with tips and tricks to survive a career shift. I wish it was that easy. But a major part of researching the new field you want to get into involves getting yourself into new circles, connecting with people in the field, reaching out to recruiters, and asking many questions. Go to networking events in your area, and ask your university career center to connect you to the right people. 

 

5. Find support 

They always say that “everything is possible when you have the right people to support you.” This is so true. Having people supporting you throughout the journey will make it tenfolds easier. You don’t want to be surrounded by people who tell you that it's changing your career now is a recipe for disaster. While it's important to have people who challenge your ideas, it’s just as essential to have people in your circle that cheer you on. Connect and talk to positive people who advise and uplift you!

 

In conclusion, stability is so much more than a paycheck and a guaranteed office desk. If your current work life doesn’t excite you, push you to grow, challenge you… we stand by you in your decision. With the right motivation and the correct research, a career shift will pass as smoothly as a cold breeze on a summer day.

 

As always, Educatly is here to guide and support you every step of the way!

 

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