Our representation of work has undergone real transformations over the last fifty years, moving from an economic need to a space for personal fulfillment, carrying meaning and aligned with values.
According to a study by the Institut Français d'Opinion Publique (IFOP) conducted in 2023, almost half of working people are considering changing jobs.
For some people, even those dissatisfied with their job, it will take several years before they take the plunge. There are those who have a clear idea of what they want to do, and those who have no idea where they want to go. Feelings of insecurity and a pessimistic view of the future are among the main obstacles to career development.
Of course, if you want to move forward quickly, you can use a skills assessment to evaluate your career path. However, a career development coach will be able to guide and support you in a genuine process of change.
In this article, we'll look at the 5 essential steps to a successful career change:
1 - INTROSPECTION
The first step is to look inwards. We think we know ourselves, but we don't always take the time to reflect introspectively. The person we are today is different from the person we were yesterday, and so are our needs.
What are my passions? My interests? What do I like? What don't I like? What are my qualities and faults? What am I missing in my professional life? What do I need? What did I like about my past experiences? And the ultimate question: what would I do in life if I didn't need money? What do I really want?
Once we've identified what defines us, the broad outlines emerge, and a few sectors or professions emerge.
2 - INVESTIGATION
Once we've identified the sectors we're interested in, we need to do some more in-depth research on each option. This can involve keyword searches on LinkedIn, Indeed or Google to see which jobs stand out. This gives you a concrete idea of the market and a broader vision of the professions you're considering.
As if through a funnel, each option will have to be refined: the salary, the durability of the job, the possible geographical areas, and so on. Certain positions will then stand out and come closer and closer to your expectations.
What are my transferable skills for these positions? Am I ready to resume training? If so, you'll need to consider the various options: short or long training courses, in-house training, distance learning, evening classes, part-time adult training, on-the-job training...
3 - ACTION
There's theory, then there's practice. This stage brings us face to face with the reality of the field, through action.
Once you've narrowed it down to five potential positions, the idea is to get in touch with people who can provide you with concrete information about these professions. Expand your network by joining organizations, associations, groups or discussion forums.
You can easily contact people in the target positions on LinkedIn and suggest a telephone or videoconference exchange. Prepare a series of questions in advance, such as:
- What's a typical day like?
- What are the advantages and difficulties of the job?
- What are the career prospects?
- Is the job promising in today's market?
Depending on the size of your organization, you may also want to get in touch with colleagues who already work in your target profession. Don't hesitate to explore internal opportunities and make your career change plans known.
For jobseekers, it's possible to obtain a ten-day internship in a company. Immersing oneself directly in the targeted world is an excellent way of confirming (or not) one's career choice.
4 - CLARIFICATION
Once you have a clear vision of each business, ask yourself the right questions:
Which position is best aligned with my interests, goals, priorities and personal needs (work/life balance, level of demands, workload...)?
Does this position still motivate me?
How does it fit in with my career plans?
How does it meet my needs?
How will it transform my professional life?
What will concretely change once I've got the job?
5 - MAKING IT HAPPEN
You've chosen a job or position that you've studied and validated. You have identified your transferable skills and the skills you may need to acquire. This can range from a simple certification to obtaining a diploma if the job is very specific.
The next step is to respond to job offers, with a suitable CV and cover letter: they should reflect your background, skills and the reasons for your career change.
In conclusion:
This approach can seem cumbersome to implement. That's why support from an expert career development professional can make the process smoother, more structured and more motivating over the long term.
Vanessa Orlando
Expert career development coach
