How to transition into a new career

Career transitions are not particularly smooth, you leave the familiar routines of your daily job responsibilities and suddenly everything seems like you have started from the very beginning again.

Here’s what you should keep in mind as you navigate through it.

Save.

You will need a lot of money to stay afloat for as long as it takes to land the right next job, so it makes sense to start saving while you are still employed before you make the leap. Most experts suggest that you keep at least three to six months’ worth of expenses in a separate savings account to cover any emergencies. You might as well double this amount to account for the added risk of being self-employed.

Remember that you are more than your job

You are a human being with strengths, weaknesses and a whole life outside of work. So think about what’s important to you in this process. Its no surprise that something that fills so much of our daily life can become part of our persona. But try not to get caught up in the idea that your job ultimately defines you, particularly when you are dealing with the disorienting feeling of a work transition. Work should not be all you have.

Give it time.

A successful career transition takes time so do not get impatient. If it’s a move you believe in, it’s worth it. You can always start slow, right where you are. See if there is a way to hone new skills in your current position that would directly apply to your new career path. Even one small step in the right direction can make a big impact. Stay motivated and focused on the end goal. And most importantly, don’t give up.

Rely on your network

Tap into your network. Reconnect with friends or extended networks to find people who work in the field you’re now pursuing. Ask them for insight about the nature of the industry, invite them to an informational interview to get tips, and solicit insight about any events or professional networks you should sign up for.

Head out to networking events, join clubs and groups with like minded people and get outside your comfort zone by looking to speak to those who can also challenge your perspectives.

Monitor your progress

If you are only judging the passage of time by your proximity to the next job, you are going to start to lose track of your actual progress. Instead, consider setting smaller benchmarks to help keep yourself motivated as you move forward. Monitor how you are doing and what you need to be doing next. If you are going to invest time and energy to make this happen, invest the time and energy to track your progress.