changing careers: 5 tips for launching a job search.

The thought of changing careers can be daunting, especially if you’re considering a new industry or a radically different role. But if you’re willing to invest time, energy and thoughtful commitment to the enterprise, you have an opportunity to make your career dreams come true. And there’s no better time to do that than right now. Here are some ways to get started.

1. get organized

It’s hard to think clearly or creatively in chaos. That’s why we always suggest the first step when you’re changing careers should be getting organized. Clean out your email and create electronic files to organize job opportunities, resumes and cover letters. Better still, set up a new email address so job search-related emails don’t get swept up in personal email. Keep a separate file with links to helpful information available online for quick and easy access. These days, most hiring is initiated through social media and online sites dedicated to hiring and HR so a big part of preparation is updating and professionalizing your online presence. Not sure how to prepare your online life for hiring managers? Check out our guide about managing your personal brand on social media.

2. update your resume

Even when you’re not changing careers, you should update your resume frequently, adding accomplishments, seminars, training opportunities and certifications. You can (and should) customize your resume so it’s relevant to specific job applications, but keep your “template” current. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is professional and up-to-date. Use online sites to stay up-to-date with your industry and hiring trends, keep in touch with and build your network, and position yourself strategically to help you launch your career change.

3. let your network know you’re changing careers

Expand your network and refresh your relationship with existing connections. Let them know you’re getting ready to change careers – they may offer helpful tips and useful contacts. Get in touch with those people who have agreed to provide references to update them on what’s happening with you; they’ll appreciate the contact especially when they’re called on to provide those references and can speak about you currently and knowledgeably.

4. make a list

Write down industries and organizations you’d want to work for. Remember, this is all about a targeted approach to finding a new career. Do a little research to find out who does the hiring at the companies you’re interested in, what jobs they post most often, and, if possible, what hard and soft skills they’ve hired for in the past. As part of your research, you can try to connect with someone in the HR department and ask if they’d be willing to meet with you briefly to answer some questions about changing careers to work for their organization. If you’re able to make contact, make sure you’re prepared with insightful questions. Remember, they’re taking time out of their day to meet with you.

5. hone your skills

Professionals at virtually every stage of their careers need to update their knowledge and learn new things. What better way to remain relevant and marketable than to keep up with trends while honing your existing skills? Furthering your education, whether through seminars, online courses or discussion groups, is also a good way to widen your contact list. These will be people with interests similar to yours, who you can network with and go to for advice, recommendations and tips on job openings and changing careers.

There’s never an absolutely perfect time to change careers, so now is as good a time as any. Once you get yourself organized and into the swing of research and networking, you may even wonder why you didn’t do it sooner. And if you need guidance or advice, our talent experts are on hand to help.