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6 Keys to Successful Career Change

Surveys repeatedly tell us that more than half of working kiwis are looking for a new role. Now is the perfect time to reflect on ‘what’s important’. A client recently mentioned how odd it is that people spend so much time and money on their physical well being (gyms etc) yet so little planning their careers!  Here are some current trends:

Recruiters and employers that I’m in touch with report increased competition for skilled, experienced staff, especially in Auckland.

Employees in jobs of skill shortage demand are often seeking career counselling to discuss approaches by head hunters and competitors. While this can be flattering, the grass isn’t always greener. It’s important to evaluate options thoroughly and communicate professionally.

Some employees are facing the threat of redundancy in rapidly changing industries, especially where technology is impacting e.g. Printing. Business owners selling up to retire can be another trigger.

Others are making the tough decision to move on from their chosen careers because of stress or changes to personal circumstances, e.g. Doctors, lawyers and other professionals not wanting to continue to work huge hours.

High-performing professional clients often seek career counselling simply because they’ve reached a ‘comfortable plateau’ or pinnacle. Typically they’ll say: “These last few years have been great, but I’m ready for the next challenge. I just need to know what that is, whether it’s here or somewhere else (I don’t want to just ‘sit’ here).”

I’m out there ‘living and breathing’ the career choices people make every day. Here are 6 keys to successful career change:

1. Revisit your motivation and focus before you update your CV and LinkedIn profile.

Ask yourself: What do I really want now? What is the best way to ‘complete’ my current employment responsibly? Is it the right time to move? What factors are important to me now (personally, professionally)? Where do I see myself in 3-5 years? How can I ‘future proof’ my employment? Do I need to debrief on situations which have been challenging before I put myself ‘out there’ again (not take ‘baggage’ to the next situation)? How can I best build confidence?  What image, message, profile updates reflect the essence of who I am now, and what do I want to attract (via my personal ‘brand’- online and in person)?

2. Obtain recent ‘evidence based’ performance feedback so you can demonstrate your real worth  to the market. Shockingly, 8 out of 10 of my clients this year have reported that they either have never been given a performance review, or their manager hasn’t scheduled one in the last year.  Many have felt embarrassment or shame about this, even though they’ve contributed hugely and it’s not their fault.. I can assist with easy strategies to gain the feedback you need for your next move.

3. Create an achievable, focused development plan to build even more value. Know how to do this in a cost effective manner.

4. Update your CV into a modern, easy to read competency based format. Learn how to write a succinct, inspiring and tailored cover letter, and how to approach potential employers. Choose referees carefully. Quality referees are often very busy, so briefing and orienting them in a timely manner is crucial.

5. Practise, practise, practise your interview, networking and presentation skills so you’ll come across relaxed, focused, confident and energised. Even CEOs need this!

6. Work out in advance your potential points of contract negotiation for your next move. Organisations typically recruit positions quickly because they are pressed for time. The more prepared, researched and succinct you are on the key elements you’d like considered in your employment contract before it is signed off, the better. These can include opportunities for professional development, memberships, peer review, study leave, coaching for performance improvement etc).