Are you currently considering retraining and pursuing a new career?
No matter what stage of life you’re currently at, there can be many advantages to venturing into a new career. These can include, increased pay, better working conditions, and a better work-life balance.
If you aren’t sure where to get started or are still deciding whether retraining is the right path for you, here is some guidance to help:
Determine your purpose
First things first, you need to determine the driving force behind wanting to retrain. This could be a whole manner of things including needing a higher salary or wanting to work in a sector you are more passionate about.
Consider whether what you are lacking in your current role could be better catered to at a different company. For example, if you’re a teacher who is unhappy with the culture at your current school, would moving schools make your role more enjoyable, or have you lost your passion for teaching entirely?
Only you will be able to answer these questions for yourself. If you are struggling, think about the entirety of your career so far, and pinpoint when you were happiest and what factors influenced that.
Do your research
If you have concluded that retraining is the right path for you, it is time to do your research into new potential career options.
Chances are that you already have somewhat of an idea of the area you’d like to retrain in, but it is important to undertake sufficient research, giving yourself realistic expectations of what the new job would be like.
Cover the basics such as salary, likely working hours, and required qualifications. If possible, get first-hand accounts from people already working in your desired profession too.
Shadow someone
Despite the benefits, retraining can be a costly and lengthy process, meaning it is really important that you are sure before you begin a training program or leave your current job.
Shadowing someone is a fantastic way to gain first-hand insight into what your new career could potentially look like. You will also be able to speak with them and ask any questions you may have.
If you are planning on retraining for a technical role such as solar panel installation or OHL engineer, it may not be possible to shadow someone directly due to safety precautions. If this is the case, enquire into just having a conversation with them instead.
Set a timeline
Retraining is rarely done quickly, especially if you are undertaking training alongside working in your current role. This can make it difficult to remain motivated and so it is advised to create a timeline for the process. This should include how long you anticipate training to take, whether that be weeks or years, and an action plan for once you are qualified.
It may be that you are going to qualify before you begin a new job search, or you might prefer to look for a role that offers training on the job.
