Are you feeling stuck in your career? Maybe you’re grinding away in a job that doesn’t excite you anymore—or worse, it’s barely paying the bills. Here’s the hard truth: staying stuck costs more than just time. It can hurt your finances, mental health, and long-term happiness.
The good news? You don’t have to settle. A strategic career pivot can unlock bigger opportunities, boost your paycheck, and bring fulfillment back into your work life. Here’s how to get started.
7 Actions You Can Take To Move Towards a New Career
Recognize When It’s Time to Pivot
Not sure if a career change is for you? Here are some signs it’s time to make a move:
- Stagnant Growth: No raises, promotions, or skill development in years.
- Financial Struggles: Your current salary isn’t enough to meet your financial goals.
- Burnout or Boredom: You dread Monday mornings or feel completely uninspired.
- Misalignment: Your values or goals don’t match what your job offers.
If any of these resonate, it’s time to explore what’s next.
Identify Transferable Skills
You already have valuable skills—it’s just about knowing how to use them in a new field. Start by listing your strengths:
- Communication
- Leadership
- Problem-solving
- Technical expertise (e.g., software, data analysis)
Now, look for industries or roles where these skills are in demand. For example:
- Retail managers can pivot to project management.
- Teachers often excel in corporate training or human resources.
- Sales professionals can transition into marketing or business development.
Upskill Strategically
If you need new qualifications, don’t worry—you don’t have to go back to school for years. Here’s how to upskill without breaking the bank:
- Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer affordable classes on in-demand skills like coding, graphic design, or data analysis.
- Certifications: Short-term certifications (e.g., Google Analytics, PMP for project management) can boost your resume quickly.
- Networking: Join industry groups or attend events to learn from people already in the field.
Pro Tip: Many skills are learnable for free. Use YouTube or free trials of paid platforms to start! Get Linkedin Learning for free!
Network Like Your Future Depends On It (Because It Does!)
Most jobs aren’t advertised—they’re filled through connections. Start building your network:
- LinkedIn: Connect with professionals in your target industry. Send a personalized message when reaching out.
- Informational Interviews: Ask people about their roles and what it takes to succeed.
- Job Shadowing: Spend a day with someone in your desired role to see if it’s a fit.
Networking isn’t about begging for jobs—it’s about learning and building relationships.
Start Small With Side Projects or Freelance Work
Before you dive into a new career full-time, test the waters:
- Freelance: Offer your skills on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork.
- Side Projects: Volunteer or take on small tasks that build your experience.
- Part-Time Work: Try a part-time role in your target field while keeping your current job.
This low-risk approach lets you build confidence and a portfolio.
Negotiate Like a Pro
Once you’re ready to land a new job, focus on roles that offer growth opportunities and higher pay. Here’s how to maximize your salary:
- Research average pay for the role on sites like Glassdoor or PayScale.
- Highlight your transferable skills and past achievements.
- Practice your negotiation pitch: “Based on my skills and market research, I believe $XX,XXX is a fair starting salary.”
Build a Fulfilling Work Life
A successful pivot isn’t just about money—it’s about finding work that aligns with your goals and values. To stay on track:
- Set clear financial and career goals.
- Keep learning new skills to stay competitive.
- Check in with yourself every 6–12 months to assess your satisfaction.
The Bottom Line
A career pivot can feel intimidating, but the rewards are worth it. Higher pay, greater satisfaction, and new challenges await when you take the leap. Remember: you’re never too old or too inexperienced to start fresh. The key is taking small, consistent steps toward your goal.
Action Step: Write down one thing you can do this week to move closer to your new career—whether it’s updating your resume, reaching out to a connection, or enrolling in a course. Start now, and you’ll thank yourself later.
