Changing Careers: How To Start A New Career

Choosing to change careers is a big decision, so take time to research how to start a new career the right way. With effective preparation, you can find the perfect career and transition smoothly into your new role. 

Whether you are seeking higher pay, a better work-life balance, or more fulfillment, a career change could significantly improve your quality of life. If you are not sure where to start when looking for a new career, you have come to the right place. This guide covers how to start a new career path and how to change careers with no experience.

Search for careers based on your interests to find meaningful work that’s more than just a job. 

Where To Start When Looking For A New Career

A career is a significant part of a person’s life. It may be time to think about starting a new career if:

• You are not feeling happy with your current work
• You’re feeling undervalued at work
• You don’t think your work is making a positive change in the world
• You often feel bored, stressed, or upset at work

Are you ready to start a new career but unsure what you want to do? Think about your interests and passions. There are tons of free self-assessments online to help you determine your strengths, skills, and work style. You can also look for a career that matches your values. Research sustainable companies to find a job that won’t cause harm to the environment, animals, or people. Then, explore the degree programs at Unity Environmental University to find a job that makes a difference.

Conduct Research On Career Options

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provides a ton of helpful data and information on various career options. It includes job outlook predictions for the next ten years. This will help you determine the best long-term career options and find jobs that are in high demand right now. 

People who currently work in your desired career are a great resource to learn what the job is like on a day-to-day basis. Don’t be afraid to attend networking events and career fairs and ask people you speak to about how to begin a new career in their field. 

Consider Additional Education and Training

A career change may require additional education or training. When researching training and degree programs, focus on the employment outcomes. Are the majority of students graduating from the program and getting job offers? What industries are they going into? Do the school’s career outcomes match your goals?

If you are currently working, look for online and flexible start programs. It can take many years to earn a degree when attending school part-time. Unity Environmental University offers degrees that you can earn in just two years that will prepare you for a rewarding career. Also, consider alternative education options such as certificates or vocational programs with on-the-job training. 

Address Financial Concerns When You Try To Start A New Career

Switching careers can be costly. You may have to pay for additional education, licenses, or equipment. Writing down a budget and the earning potential for your top career choices can help you make the most financially beneficial decision. If a career has an advanced degree requirement but a low median salary, you may not be able to get a good return on your investment in the degree. The BLS has data on the median salaries for most careers so that you can make a financially smart transition. 

Assess your finances and savings as soon as you know you want to start a new career. Are you able to take time off work in between careers to focus on furthering your education? You may be able to get financial aid for school to help cover your cost of living in between jobs. Job searching and networking can also be a full-time job. With enough advanced preparation, you can save money to quit your current job while looking to start a new career. Lastly, consider whether you would be able to take a lower starting salary when you start a new career.

Do you love animals? With a degree from Unity Environmental University, you can find a career working with animals that pays well.

Develop A Career Transition Plan

Still wondering how do I start a new career? Here is a step-by-step guide on how to transition out of your old career and into a better one. 

• Explore your interests, passions, and values
• Make a list of your skills and experience
• Research various careers
• Set your professional goals
• Create a budget
• Network as much as possible

Network And Seek Professional Support

Studies show that up to 80% of people get their jobs through personal connections such as referrals. That means networking is your best chance at finding a new career. Connect with people in your desired industry through Facebook groups and LinkedIn. Many colleges and universities also have career support services. Unity Environmental University has career specialists and alumni groups to help connect students and graduates to potential employers. 

Gain Relevant Work Experience

Trying to start a new career with no relevant experience in that field can be daunting, but there are ways to gain industry-specific experience before changing jobs. Volunteer experience is often counted as work experience for job qualifications and pay scales. Internships are another great way to gain experience. Some internships are even paid and lead to full-time job offers with the company. 

At Unity Environmental University, all students are encouraged to do an internship, and hybrid-learning students are required to. We support you in finding the right internship for you with connections to employers all over the world. 

Market Yourself To Employers

Just filling out applications online is often not the most effective way to find a job, especially if you are starting a new career. Instead, you need to market yourself to employers actively. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date. Select the “looking for work” option. Tailor your resume and cover letter to your desired career even if you don’t have a lot of experience yet. Many skills are transferable to a new career such as leadership experience and technical knowledge. 

Lastly, be prepared to explain to potential employers why you are switching careers. Storytelling can be a powerful way to do that. Share what you are looking for in your desired career and why you think it’s a good fit for you. Practice answering interview questions about your career change prior to attending any interviews so your responses sound polished, professional, and confident.

Explore Unity Environmental University’s Distance Learning And In-Person Programs

It is never too late in life to change careers, and it’s easier to do so now than ever before. While you may not be able to start a new career today, with the right research, self-reflection, and networking, you can seamlessly shift careers. 

When you need a new career, think about what type of work you want to do. Focus on your passions and values. Use Unity Environmental University’s career search tool to explore degree programs based on your interests such as working with computers or jobs in nature. The site includes career guides on a variety of different pathways so that you can do all your research for starting a new career in one place.