03 Mar Jeff Kamikow’s Top Tips for Successful Career Change

Why does one decide to change their career? More importantly, how does one do it? There might be several reasons backing this decision, and even more ways to pull it off. Whether it is dissatisfaction with the current employment or chasing an old forgotten passion, it really doesn’t matter.

It is, however, important to be careful when doing it. There are a few points that need to be covered before officially going for the switch. Jeff Kamikow, a digital advertising professional with a lot of experience under his belt, and a man who has successfully made a big career change early on in his professional life, has been kind enough to share a few important tips with us.

Here is a quick breakdown of all the things you need to consider according to Jeff.

1. Understand why you really want to do this

The first step you need to go through is to assess your wishes and thoughts. Since you are probably years deep in your current career, and you have worked a lot of hours and went all in to make something of yourself, you should go through the pros and cons of the career change.

What you need to understand is whether this is just a whim or a serious endeavour. Moreover, ask yourself what the real reason for doing this is. Maybe you are just bored with your current job due to a kind of stagnation or lack of productivity.

If it is just a whim, then you could end up regretting your decision, wishing for a chance to go back to your old job. So, take a step back and review what you already have and what you could end up having if you make the change.

2. Research the current market

The moment you figure out your passion and true calling, research the current job market. You can find what is in demand. Not all jobs are lucrative, plus some will need more time to get you out of the red.

For example, Jeff Kamikow has made a list of the most promising careers for 2016. This could help you out in case you want something secure and if the reason for your career change is pure profit. If it is passion we’re talking about here, then you should perhaps dig deeper into the job market.

3. Be practical with your skills and education

This is the right time for you to take a look at what you have to offer in terms of your skills and education. Focus on finding transferable skills, or skills that could be used from different angles. A teacher and a CEO both need to have great communication and leadership skills. An accountant and a stockbroker both need to be good with analytics and numbers. Get the picture?

Moreover, your degrees and achievements will be of help, too. For example, with a language degree, you could be a writer, translator or a teacher. So, you need to look for jobs where you could utilise your knowledge. Look for careers where your degree will be appreciated.

This step is essential to cover if you don’t have time to go through extra training or education. Maybe you will do it later, when you make the change, but until that actually happens, your only weapons are what you already have. So, make the most of it.

4. Do not be afraid to ask for help

Changing your career is not easy. You will be tasked with tough decisions and there will be possible setbacks that could break your spirits. However, this is a normal part of the process and it shouldn’t come as a surprise.

That’s why you should be prepared to ask for help in case something like this happens. You should also know that there is no place for shyness or pride. If you need help, ask for it. Find a person who is successful in the field you are looking to go into.

They could give you useful and powerful advice that could put you on the right path. Also, people love being asked to help out. It makes them feel good.

5. Build a strong network

Lastly, if you want to make a successful move to another career, you will need to have a good team of people that could be of help to you. Networking is very important when building one’s career, and that is why you should start building connections early on.

Knowing the right people could help you get valuable insights. Look at it as being in the right place at the right time. These people could be your university peers, colleagues or even friends and family. You should take anyone you know into consideration.
In conclusion, a career change is not an easy-breezy thing to do. It will take time, effort and a lot of patience if you want to be successful by the end of it. Making the right strategy is key; that’s why you should review the previous steps and try to make the most of it.