6 Things You Must Know Before Switching Careers

Switching careers, especially ones that are at two ends of a spectrum can’t be easy. Aravi has a few handy tips for one of the biggest life changes you will ever make.

Changing trends and interests have resulted in severe migration of jobs and careers among the youth. People do not want to stick to the same job as their qualification if it does not interest them any longer. A good change, but a little precaution is needed nonetheless.

A few years ago, when the field of IT was growing at an unprecedented rate, working for a multinational company (MNC) was a dream for a lot of aspiring engineering students. At that time, a dear friend, who handled a job with a 5 lakh per annum salary package, decided to quit and take up travel blogging for a magazine. When he made the decision to switch to a completely different job, the question that he was frequently asked was “Are you sure this is the right decision to make?”. But he was quite clear about his choice. It is then that it struck me that he was not the only one. In recent years, a large percentage of youth has been seen switching to completely different careers from what they are qualified, for a host of reasons – be it money or interest. Professionals today are setting out to start their own ventures, engineers and doctors are quitting their well-paying jobs to publish books and science students are turning to acting
or drama.

However, is it easy working in a field in which you have no previous theoretical knowledge or formal education? Definitely not. When it comes to switching jobs, there is a certain amount of uncertainty that surrounds your future. But, pursuing a job that grabs your interest and holds it, is definitely worth taking the risk for. Nonetheless, there are a few things you should keep in mind. It is important to take things in a slow and organized manner. Which is why you should consider the following tips to make switching jobs an easier process.

Be sure of your choices

The thumb rule to follow when changing careers is that you need to be sure of what you are choosing. Evaluate whether or not your interest in a different career is genuine or a passing phase, and analyse whether or not, it is the right time in your life to make a career switch. If you are even the slightest bit doubtful, make sure you rethink your decision, sleep over it and then draw a conclusion. The key is to not make a hurried decision.

Be prepared to answer questions

“But why did you change your career?” – This is one question which you will face everywhere and from almost anyone and everyone, be it at a job interview or your friends and family members. You will have to convince several people about why switching your career is a good idea. However well thought your decision is, you will be questioned and you will need an answer that not only convinces your friends, family and your interviewer but also yourself. So, if you’re not sure and confident about your decision, the uncertainty and lack of confidence will probably make you rethink whether or not you’re doing the right thing.

Be financially stable

This tip is especially for those who want to follow their passion for writing or photography or any other job which really isn’t as thriving as other well-paying jobs. Yes, following your passions and doing what you want to sound really convincing when you have to advice someone, but as a matter of fact, it can be tricky and heavy on your pockets.

It is always good to have backup finance for at least 3 months, for your daily and basic expenses. This should be a paramount priority, especially if the job you want to pursue doesn’t really pay that well. Plan your finances ahead of leaving your job and save enough money so you need not borrow or ask for any from your family and friends. And, in case you have instalments or EMI’s, you definitely need a backup plan to prevent the bank from landing up at your doorstep.

Take a formal course of a degree in the field you are switching to

No matter how bad you want to start a business of your own or change your job profile, it is always advisable to get formal training or at the very least, a course has done for the same. If you wish to pursue a career in interior designing, it’s best to at least take up a diploma course in Interior Designing. This will help you understand the basics of designing, the technical terms that interior designers use and the small knacks of the profession. Look for a diploma course, if not a full-time class, but make sure you know the technical details of what you plan on getting into.

Get some experience

Cooking at home for your family may seem stress-free and relaxing, but catering for up to a hundred people at a party is a lot more chaotic and taxing. Similarly, it’s a lot easier to fancy a writing career than to actually write something worth reading. Which is why the best way to come to a conclusion, is to get some hands-on experience in the field that you wish to work in. If possible take up an internship or work with someone you know, who are already employed in the career field of your choice. Doing so will help you understand the on-field troubles and realities of the career you want to move into and, it will help you get some perspective on the career that you desire.

Talk to your family

At a point in your life, when you’re about to take a major decision, rest assured you will need the support of your family and your near and dear ones. They serve as your moral support, and it is essential that both you and your family are on the same page. You might initially face some problems and a lot of questions from their end, which you will need to prepare yourself for. Talk to them about the scope of the new venture, what you’re looking for in your new career and other important aspects of the job that you want to shift to. Also remember that there is no shame in asking for or accepting their financial help until you gain some stability with your new job, and keep your mind open to what they have to say about your decision and the advice that they offer you.