#CareerCon2019: Success Tips for When Shifting Careers

Changing professions is a major decision, with more challenges arising after making that choice, and the following are some ways to better navigate the career shift

People look to shift careers for a variety of reasons. For some, career goals or values may have changed; for others, there may be a desire to earn a larger income, or to have more flexible hours, or the opportunity to finally pursue a passion had opened up, among others. Whichever the case may be, doing so is a big decision and, in the case of many, is one that is years in the making.

After considering, and re-considering, shifting careers, you may have finally decided that it is the right time to go for it. The decision, however, is not the end of the process. On the contrary, it is just the beginning, and it is important to be mindful that with a career change comes a whole new set of new demands, stresses, and excitement that will push you out of your comfort zone.

Speaking at the first ever CareerCon held at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati City by FutureProof and Kalibrr, Katapult Digital Corp. CEO Albet Buddahim shared some insight on some good practices that can help with the successful navigation of a non-linear career path.

“Begin with the end in mind.”

As already mentioned, changes in career are at times years in the making, where we often wait and work our way towards a career shift instead of just making the change overnight. It’s in these instances where doubt can creep in, in that we sometimes either not push through with the change, or second-guess our choice after its been made. According to Buddahim, it is here when we should look farther ahead.

“Begin with the end in mind. It’s here when the companies you work for don’t seem so random. The roles you take will prepare you for, and get you to, where you want to be. So changing careers is okay, even if there’s that risk that it doesn’t work out and you end up or simply want to make a change again.”

“Build a house of skills.” 

Expectedly, possessing the right skills will help you be better suited to take on the role/s you want to shift into. According to Buddahim, these can be acquired before changing careers, and not just by “learning as you go” after you’ve made the shift, a path typical for most career changers which even prevents them from actually making a successful change.

“Sure you want to be a CEO or take a leadership position. But those take skill. And you can build yours through experience, reading,  and by attending training and seminars. Remember, just because you wake up one day deciding to change careers doesn’t always mean you can, especially if you have nothing to offer in that new industry.”

Along with learning through formal training, other ways to earn the skills and gain the exposure you need for the career you are shifting to are doing research, asking to shadow people you know who already work in the industry you want to move to so, or seeking a mentor to show you the ropes outright, among others.

“It’s about the people you know.”

Speaking of people who can help you with your career change, Buddahim shares how who you choose to involve will play a key role in your success. These can range from the aforementioned people you will learn from, the people you’ve worked with, and those who will just outright support you.

“It’s about the people you know, who trust and believe in you. They’ll help you find your opportunities, and encourage you. While naysayers can sometimes have valid points, their doubts ultimately can’t help you, and you’re better positioned to succeed with the people who can help you grow in your new career.”

Buddahim further shares that these include the connections you’ve established at the career you’re about to leave, because they can still best attest to how well you work with others and how easy you are to train, among others, and can recommend you to people in the new industry you want to move to.

“When you are the standard, you are the leader.”

Of course, the true measure of a successful career change is actually doing well in that new job, and eventually being able to rise up the ranks and take on executive, ownership, or leadership roles. According to Buddahim, a simplified approach to this is working hard enough to eventually become something of a standard in your new career.

“Always aim to exceed expectations. And the best way to do that? Be a leader. Be a role model of excellence. When you are the standard, you are the leader.”

Changed careers and need help finding that dream job? Sign up at Kalibrr and be connected to thousands of employers, today!

For more photos and highlights of CareerCon, click here.