Changing Careers in 2022? Here is What You Need to Know

The job market has changed rapidly over the last few years, and 2022 promises to be even more disruptive. Significant developments are expected in education, careers and what it will mean to have a job — so if you're planning on making a career change or starting your own business in 2022, here's what you may need to know.

Preparation

Knowing which career path is best for you can be challenging if you're looking for a change. Being well-prepared when you change careers can enhance your possibilities of success and satisfaction. Follow the steps below during the preparation phase.

Review How Financially Ready You Are

Leaving your work can be daunting and financially challenging, and it takes a lot of confidence to go into the unknown. If you have enough money in your savings account, this could be one of those situations when you can take a chance and call it quits without having a replacement lined up. Alternatively, it may be beneficial to consider keeping your current job while searching for other employment opportunities in your free time.

Knowing how quitting a job may affect your finances is one way to lighten the burden of quitting a job. Experts advise considering the ongoing expenses such as education costs for your children, healthcare, and utilities. Consider what a shift in wage would entail for others who depend on you. You may not really have much leeway to take a risk if you don't have a safety net.

Show That You Possess the Necessary Expertise

You may not have the skills that a new job needs, but that does not mean you should give up. You can transfer many skills from your background of previous work. Remind the hiring manager of these transferable skills, and then show that you have them by presenting your abilities. 

According to the 2021 LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report, resilience was the most valuable trait in 2021. Emotional intelligence and general communication skills are two other crucial career competencies. If you want to be an asset to your team, show how you have these soft skills that will make you a great teammate, no matter what industry or team you're joining. 

When searching for new opportunities, you shouldn't ignore the warning signs that you might not be qualified for a position. Instead, think about how you can adapt and be a flexible candidate. Keep in mind the challenges you'll have to face and work through how to tackle them.

Get Rid of Stuck Feelings

In a 2021 survey, workers argued they stay in unsatisfactory jobs due to a lack of optimism or difficulty moving out of a professional rut. Of those surveyed, only seven percent said they were in their dream career. 

It's a common misconception that you need to be a particular type of person to get a job. But in reality, companies are looking for all kinds of skills and backgrounds. So, the next time you feel like you don't measure up, remember that no matter what you believe about yourself, somebody out there needs your skills and passions. Considering what type of growth or life satisfaction you could obtain by staying in your present job is one technique to combat these worries.

If a new career with improved work circumstances and the freedom to retain the lifestyle you developed during the Covid-19 pandemic motivates you to produce outstanding work, let the ideals lead you to action. Do not let your fear of attempting something new, making a strategy, and pushing for it deter you.

Connect With Connectors

Do you want to skip the introductions and get straight to the interview? Get yourself a connection. It can be challenging to contact a hiring manager when you are new in an industry and don't have someone to recommend you. Connectors are an excellent approach to getting around this issue and increasing your employment chances.

Networking is an integral part of the business world. If you're not networking with people in your desired industry, you're missing out on opportunities for support and collaboration. Networking doesn't have to be uncouth or slimy if you change how you think about it. Instead, think of it as an exchange of ideas and resources. 

Experts say that we should think of networking as a necessary element of today's environment, and it allows you to offer and receive. There is always a chance to give. And you have a lot more to contribute than you imagine.

Networking is a strategy you should use to get ahead in the workforce. In fact, networking can lead to a big break in one's career. You never know when the person you just met will have a connection that benefits you.

Considerations

It would help if you also considered the following factors as you plan on changing careers in 2022. 

The Work Environment

The work environment is about different but crucial work factors like:

Flexibility in Working From Home

The Covid-19 pandemic has shown that companies must be flexible to protect their employees. Those who work from home can be just as efficient as those working in the office. Although many companies have promised to keep letting people work remotely, others refuse to adapt to the new normal.

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While it can be difficult for some people to work from home, for many people, their strong preference is to be able to work from home. When choosing a company for your next job, make sure they offer flexible hours to accommodate your needs.

Time Off With Pay

Another critical factor to consider before changing one job for another would be paid time off. If your company offers a good vacation program, you might be amazed to learn that others do not.

Vacation days, parental leave, holidays, and sick days are all examples of employee benefits. If you want to start a family soon, look into your company's parental leave policy and contrast it to potential employers.

Possibilities for Growth

If you're looking for a job where you may stay for a few years or longer, it's crucial to consider if there's a possibility for advancement. The larger the firm, the more likely you will continue and be elevated to a different job. 

This may be more difficult to achieve at smaller businesses, where development opportunities may be minimal. But that said, always interrogate what growth avenues each potential employer has, not just based on the size of the business - define what growth means for you too. 

The Type of Career

If you determine that starting a new job is the perfect thing for you in 2022, you must first investigate the industry. Doing informational interviews is one approach to do so. Before making your career shift, they can give you some insider information about your dream job. 

Is there anyone in your circle who happens to work in the field you want to pursue? Could someone create a connection for you if that isn't viable? You might also seek support from your student association.

Determine What Education or Certifications You Need

You may discover that you require extra education to work in your dream industry. Is it enough to have some expertise, or would you also need a degree or certification? You can explore and take online programs or attend a local institution when circumstances allow.

Wrapping Up

If you want to change careers in 2022, you'd better start planning today! Of course, not everyone has the luxury of choosing when they do what. That's why it's so important to start now.