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Did you know that before Harrison Ford became one of the most recognisable actors in the world, he worked as a carpenter? Before he played Han Solo and Indiana Jones, Ford spent years doing manual work, building furniture and taking on other joinery jobs to support his family. Only later did he decide to commit fully to acting – and it proved to be the right call.
Never make a decision out of fear. Make decisions guided by hope and possibility. Make decisions based on what should happen, not on what shouldn’t.
Michelle Obama
Changing jobs, as it was for Harrison Ford, can be a chance not only to improve your finances but to discover new talents and fulfil professional ambitions. The important thing is not to decide hastily, but to weigh everything up and spare yourself disappointment later on.
So where should you start?
1. Identify why you want to change jobs
The first step towards changing jobs is understanding why you are thinking about it at all. That may sound obvious, but your motives are worth examining closely. Is it about:
- better pay?
- greater scope to develop?
- a lack of satisfaction in your current role?
- poor relationships at work?
- wanting to change sector or specialism?
Understanding your motives will help you focus your search and avoid repeating the same mistakes in a new job. If your main problem is a lack of scope to develop, for instance, concentrate on companies that offer clear career paths and invest in their people.
2. Assess where you stand professionally
Before deciding to move, it is worth taking stock. This is the moment to think about what you have achieved so far, what you are good at and what you can offer a future employer.
What does your network look like? Do you know people who could help you find a new job? Networking often plays a decisive part in changing jobs.
What skills and experience do you have? Draw up a list of the skills, achievements and experience that could be valuable to a new employer.
Do you have the right qualifications? Do you have the skills you need to move into a new sector? Or might it be worth considering additional courses or training to strengthen your credentials?
3. Prepare your CV and professional profile
Your CV is your calling card in the job market. It must be current, compelling and tailored to the role you are applying for. It is worth spending time on it, because it is the first document a prospective employer will see.
Your LinkedIn profile. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is complete and professional. It is often the first place recruiters look when screening candidates. It is also worth asking for recommendations from people who can add to your credibility.
Update your CV. Make sure your CV covers all your most recent experience, skills and achievements. Focus on the specific results you have delivered in your career so far.
Tailor your CV to the advert. Remember to adapt your CV to each specific vacancy. If you are applying for different kinds of role, it is worth preparing several versions that bring out different aspects of your experience.
4. Start researching the job market
Before you begin applying, it is worth getting a sense of the current market in your sector. That will help you understand what is realistically available and what terms you can expect.
Companies that interest you. Draw up a list of employers you find attractive and worth watching for vacancies. This can also be a good opportunity to make contact with people who work there.
Reviewing job adverts. Look at what roles are available, what employers are asking for and what they offer. That will give you a picture of what to expect.
Trends in your sector. Is anything significant changing in your field? Are new technologies, requirements or skills emerging? Knowing this will help you prepare for a move and adapt your own skills.
5. Prepare for interviews
Changing jobs means interviews, which can be stressful but are a crucial stage in the recruitment process. So they are worth preparing for properly.
Research the company. Before the interview, find out as much as you can about the company you are applying to. Understanding its mission, values and culture will help you present yourself better and answer your own question of whether this is the right organisation for you.
Prepare for the questions. Think about what you might be asked. Work out your answers to the most common questions: “Why do you want to change jobs?”, “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”, “What can you bring to our company?”.
Practise your answers. Rehearse your answers in front of a mirror, with a friend, or record them and listen back to find anything worth improving. You will feel more confident in the real conversation.
6. Do not rush the decision
Changing jobs is a serious decision, so it is not one to rush. Before you commit, make sure you have the full picture.
A plan B. Think about what you will do if the new job turns out to be a mistake. Do you have a fallback? It may be worth building a financial cushion in case you have to start looking again.
Weigh up the pros and cons. Draw up a list of the advantages and disadvantages of moving. Consider whether the potential gains outweigh the risks.
Negotiating. If you receive an offer, do not be afraid to negotiate. Remember that changing jobs is also a chance to improve your terms, so it is worth making them as good as they can be.
7. Get through the transition
The first days and weeks in a new job can be demanding. New responsibilities, a new environment, new people – all of it can be stressful. So it is worth preparing for that transition.
- Give yourself time. Remember that settling into a new job can take weeks, even months.
- Ask questions. Do not be afraid to ask when you do not know something. It is natural not to know every procedure and expectation at the start. Asking is better than making mistakes for want of information.
- Build relationships: Form good relationships with your new colleagues. It will help you settle in faster and feel more comfortable.
Do you know yet what would be best for you?
Changing jobs is an important decision that can affect many parts of your life. It deserves careful thought and good preparation. Examining your motives, researching the market thoroughly, updating your CV and preparing properly for interviews are the key steps that will carry you through the process successfully.
Every change carries some risk, but it can also open up new and exciting possibilities. Approach the process deliberately and well prepared, and you stand a good chance of finding work that is not only a source of income but of satisfaction and further professional growth.
