Planning for a career change? Here are 5 important tips

Given the emerging opportunities and the need for personal growth, career switch is not an unheard of concept in today’s market scenario. Even then, it’s best to follow the adage: Look before you leap.
There are no fixed rules when it comes to a career switch. It is very subjective. HR professionals feel it’s best to do it at an early stage in your career. But, if you are still to find your calling, and are testing waters there is no reason to worry. More and more companies are now very encouraging of this change.
“Career switch is not frowned upon anymore. It really depends on the openness of an organisation and the candidate’s potential. We have encouraged such switch where we thought the candidate would be able to bring in much more than a person with experience in the same field,” says Deodutta Kurane, group president, Human Capital Management, YES BANK.
Even then, it’s always better to know what you are getting into. Here’s how you can go about making that big switch:
Understanding the new job role and industry
“When people change careers in this market, the first thing they must be aware of is what is expected out of them and what can they bring to the industry. This will show the hiring company that you are serious about this change and this move is not based on some wishful thinking,” says Parul Gupta, who changed her career from a content writer to a research analyst.
Use your know-how to your advantage
After taking a bold step about making a career switch, the next step, and an equally important step is to convince hiring managers that you’ll be a valuable employee. “We usually understand a person’s background, his/her achievements and performance. The other thing we do is learn from the candidate how they can bring value to the team based on their experience,” says Kurane.
For such situations, Gupta has a suggestion. “If you don’t have any direct skills that match the profile, focus on interpersonal skills, problem-solving ability and project management.”

Check in-house
Companies are now working towards creating ‘happy work environment’. Thus, before looking outside it’s best to check in-house. “If you are looking at changing your role, speak to your immediate boss and the HR. The company may help you out here. This will also work to your advantage, as your salary, designation and other benefits will remain intact,” advises Kurane.

Be positive
Like in any new situation, be positive and sure of your decision. “Make sure that you know you are switching for a reason. If you give answers like ‘I am just eliminating my choices’, no one will take you seriously,” points out Kurane.

Training always helps
If you are in a position to learn new skills, you will always have an advantage when it comes to career switch. One can also consider options from the company. For instance, organisations like YES Bank and L&T offer professional courses to their employees who are keen to enhance their knowledge base.

Finally, be candid, be honest and be very sure of the reason why you want a change.

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