The Update

Reinventing Your Professional Self

If you’re feeling burnt out at your current job, looking to pursue a new passion, or industry shifts mean your job no longer works for you, it may be time for a career pivot. Reinventing your professional self can be exciting and rewarding, but daunting, too. However, with the right tools and information, you can successfully execute a job change.

Here’s how to navigate a career transition successfully.

Self-reflection

Before embarking on a career transition, take some time for self-reflection. What are your values, strengths, weaknesses, dreams and aspirations? What are your biggest passions, and what genuinely drives you? Identifying your core values and interests will serve as your compass when considering new career paths.

Define Your Destination

Think about what you want to achieve in your next career phase. Set clear, achievable goals that align with your values and passions. Whether it’s switching industries, pursuing entrepreneurship or advancing within your current career, make sure you know what your end goal is before you set out on this journey.

Invest in Your Skills

Whatever field or industry you’re transitioning into, you’ll need to acquire new skills and knowledge. This can include formal education, certifications or self-study. Embrace the opportunity to learn and be open to acquiring skills that may not have been part of your previous career. The more you know, the more you can grow professionally.

Build New Connections

Networking is a crucial part of any career change. Reach out to individuals in your desired field or role, attend industry events and join online forums or groups that are related to your field. Building a network of like-minded professionals can open doors to opportunities and valuable insights. Linkedin is a great virtual way to build new connections. 

Polish Your Resume

Your resume and personal branding materials should emphasize your transferable skills and experiences. Highlight how your previous roles have equipped you for success in your new career path and modify your resume to the specific industry or role you’re pursuing.

Freelance for Experience 

Engage in side projects or freelance work related to your new career path. This hands-on experience will help you build your skills and showcase your abilities to potential employers or clients.

Strengthen Your Soft Skills

Soft skills, such as communication, adaptability and emotional intelligence, are important values in any field. Spend some time cultivating these skills to complement your technical abilities. You can read up on ways to strengthen your soft skills or take an online class to help you master them on a higher level.

Prepare Your Finances

It’s important to consider your financial situation during your career transition and to prepare for inevitable changes. For example, you may experience periods of uncertainty or lower income. Having a financial safety net to cover these times can provide you with peace of mind and help you get through your career change without stressing over your personal expenses..

Reinventing your professional self is an incredible and transformative journey. Follow these tips to navigate a career transition successfully.

Careers at Rio Grande Credit Union

Rio Grande Credit Union is always looking for talented individuals to join our team. Regularly check our career center to see what opportunities we have available. RGCU was recognized as a Family Friendly Business that implements family friendly policies - like PTO, parental leave, and tuition reimbursement, to name a few - in the workplace.