Many people decide on a career change because they feel their current role doesn’t offer them any challenges or a chance of a promotion.Maybe you are looking to retrain to get a higher paying job. Let’s face it, the cost of living increase is putting a squeeze on everyone’s finances.
However, if you don’t have the time or money to enrol as a student to get a degree or have a family to take care of and regular bills to pay, then making a fresh start can be challenging.
There are job opportunities out there for those who feel stuck in the middle. Often these are roles that require more transferable skills and experience than a school leaver possesses but requires less than a university degree qualification.
If you feel you are ready to shake things up a bit careerwise, there are fast and cost-effective ways to do this.
Choose your field
If you have taken some time away from the workforce to raise children, you may not want to go back into the same role or industry or sector you worked in before you had your family.
You may already know what job you would like to do or which industry you want to work in. Even if you need to take some extra training or brush up on your skills, it doesn’t mean you need to shy away from making a career change and trying something completely new.
Online Programmes
With increased availability of online courses, changing careers is easier than ever. For those considering a career change, taking an online course to explore options and gain key skills can be a great way to start the transition. Programs range from short, free courses that introduce concepts in various fields, to full-blown certification programs that offer in-depth knowledge and skills. There’s something for everyone regardless of prior experience and budget. Not only do these courses provide the opportunity to obtain valuable training in a different field, they also allow individuals time to determine if the new interest suits them before embarking on a major career change. In addition, these online courses can improve one’s resume by demonstrating interests and commitment beyond traditional educational environments. Visit Wilkes University to learn more about our online courses and how they can help you transition to a new career!
Learn new skills
Most well-paid jobs that don’t require a degree are often found in skilled service industries, including administration roles, finance, information technology, and customer support. All will rely on using computer systems.
You don’t need to go back to school to learn new skills. You can take professional online courses to give you all the skills you need for your new role. For example, you can study an Online Excel Course if you need this skill to succeed in your new career.
Appreciate your transferable skills
Everyone has a list of soft skills, also known as transferable skills, that you will take with you from job to job, no matter what role you take on. These skills can be applied across many industries, departments and roles.
Your soft skills are what can make you a very valuable prospective employee. Employers highly appreciate and value transferable skills such as reliability, problem-solving, communications, empathy, good time management, adaptability, and a willingness to learn something new.
Look for internal retraining opportunities
It could be that you are fed up with your current job, but you still like the company or industry you work within.
Many companies run internal staff training programmes for employers who want to take on more responsibility. These programmes are helpful for the retention of skilled employees and reducing staff turnover.
Try temping
Sometimes it can be hard to pinpoint precisely what job you want to do. This is why registering with a couple of temp agencies can be helpful.
It can be helpful to try your hand at a few different things to see if they are a good fit for you before jumping in with both feet. Temping can also help bring in some money to make ends meet while you decide on your next career move.
Working as a temp can also give you an insight into some job roles that you never knew existed!
Keep your CV updated
These days it is all about your ‘personal brand’ and online presence. Did you know that most employers will do a quick background check of your online profile when you make their shortlist?
Keep your CV updated with any new skills or training you undertake, and tidy up your social media presence to make sure you give a prospective employer a good first impression of you.
