6 Ways to Retrain for a New Career

Do you feel dissatisfied with your choice of career? Many of us do and feel trapped in the career we “fell into” straight after leaving school. Students are often channelled into careers which reflect their skill levels or into a career that is perceived as being a good “profession” rather than what they enjoy. It is fairly common these days for people to make radical career changes in order to feel fulfilled in their work life. Let’s face it you spend a lot of time “working” and it would be so much better if you got enjoyment and satisfaction from your choice. If the prospect of changing careers seems a little daunting, read on for inspiration.

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In previous years your only option for retraining was to leave your current job in order to go to college or embark on an evening class, thankfully there are now more options available. The advent of the internet has allowed distance learning to become a possibility by learning using online resources and Skype. This option allows for flexibility and it may be possible to retrain whilst keeping your current position. There are also now more funding options available, making financing your training easier.

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Often it’s deciding on which career pathway to take which can be the problem. Do lots of research to find out what’s out there, the results may surprise you.

Which careers are you drawn to?

Try to make the process of choosing a direction a little more methodical than plucking ideas from thin air! Start by writing down all the skills you already possess, and try to look at personal skills as well as qualifications. Then write down what you enjoy and areas of interest that you would like to develop.

Once you view these in black and white you may be able to create your ideal career. If you are struggling, it would be a good idea to meet with a career advisor who is an expert in this area. They will be able to analyze your skills, likes, and dislikes in order to identify possible careers that would suit you as an individual.

Which careers are in demand?

There are certain careers and skills which are in short supply across the country and internationally. If you are taking the time to invest time and money in order to retrain it would be wise to choose an area where there is a skills shortage. Skills shortages change on a year-to-year basis, but there are certain careers that have been a mainstay for quite a few years. Beauty technicians are in short supply especially if trained to a high standard in order to administer the latest techniques. You could consider investing in accredited Botox training, which would enable you to become fully qualified in Botox and dermal fillers. Other career pathways in demand are building trades, computer programmers, software developers, nurses, and personal trainers. Research is key to finding a potentially lucrative career as well as one which ticks all the boxes in regard to job satisfaction.

Training options

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Once you have discovered which career pathway you would like to pursue it’s time to look at how you will become qualified in order to be employable and skilled. Look at all options available to you and research them carefully. If you are choosing a career with a high level of practical elements such as hairdressing or building, it would be pointless doing an online course as you won’t gain the necessary skills. Look at what your local college offers or maybe your qualifications could be best achieved at university.

“Take another look and your skills and experience. Does your resume really reflect all that you’ve done and all of your skills? Now is not the time to be shy. List every accomplishment and success you’ve had over the last 10 years (and the skills needed to accomplish those successes) and make sure they are reflected in your resume.” – careeralley.com

Whichever training pathway you choose it’s essential to ensure the qualification is recognised by the sector in which you wish to work. Some training providers only provide “in-house” certificates which are not recognised. You could waste valuable time and money if you don’t research carefully. Look at reviews from previous students and look at statistics showing how many students moved on to find employment in the sector following qualification. Sectors often have regulating bodies who can give useful training advice.

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Secure funding

Retraining involves a fairly substantial amount of financial investment. It may be possible to retrain alongside your current job so that you maintain an income, or perhaps you could consider working part-time. Research funding options that may be available to you. You may be able to secure funding via a grant, bursary, student finance, or loan. Ensure you read the small print carefully when making any funding decisions.

Don’t feel trapped in your career. Research options available to you and achieve your dreams!

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11/24/2024 12:23 am GMT