How to Pick a Second Career and to Secure Your Future

If anything, this year has shown us the necessity to have plan B on any life occasion. Many people lost their jobs due to the global pandemic. Many are still at risk of losing theirs. People often tend to put all their eggs in one basket and may find it the hardest to find a new job.

These days, to have a good job, we all need to advance our skillset, show flexibility and have several career choices in mind. In fact, many people tend to seek second career options later in life. It is quite a common concept overall. Too often, we choose careers in youth when we know little about the world or ourselves.

So this pandemic can actually be a perfect time to rediscover your passions in life and seek a new career for yourself. Of course, it may be a challenging journey, though it is doable. Let’s see how to pick a second career and to secure your future. 

5 Steps to Change Career Path

#1 Find your passion

There is no need to start a new career if you don’t feel excited about your second choice. Change in career should give you better opportunities in life, sure. But it also should make you a happier and better person.

This will not be possible if you don’t feel passionate about the choice you made. Do spend some time thinking about what jobs would make you happy before making any final decisions.

Following your heart will be especially beneficial in overcoming all the challenges you’ll have on your way. And you will have some challenges. So think of what you like doing and how it can help you find the best new career for you.

Also, a good tip here is to see what terrifies you the most. Sometimes, what scares us the most is the most desirable thing we’d like to pursue. 

#2 Analyze your skillset

Once you have decided on your career choice, you need to analyze what you have for it and what you need. Your skillset will decide on how long it can take for you to requalify for a new position. Of course, you can start from a completely blank page. It is going to be harder, but still very much possible.

If you can, try picking a career where you may apply the skills, talents, and knowledge you already have. Also, having the required skills and experiences enlisted in your resume will be a serious advantage. Though, you can always hire a paper helper to assist you with writing a motivational resume and letters. 

#3 Take courses

There can be numerous reasons to take various online courses. First of all, courses can prepare you for the transition between your careers. You will feel more confident and informed about what you are about to start. You may also make sure that your second career choice is what you want by taking classes.

They will show whether you like what you are doing if you are good at it and are still interested. Also, courses and certificates look good on a resume. They show the seriousness of your intentions and the will to learn. 

#4 Research the job market

Since you are already convinced about your future career choice, you may as well start pursuing it. First, it’s better to research the job market. See what opportunities it offers. What the salaries are.

What the requirements for the positions you want are. You need to be fully prepared. Also, never undermine the power of networking. In fact, if you have already reached some good progress in your first career, it may be easier to switch it.

People will know you, your work ethics, and your talents, and so on. Good work is always rewarded. If you are good at networking, finding the right people to recommend you for a new job should not be a big problem. 

#5 Plan your way out

Building a second choice career is not all about going forward. It is also about covering your back. You need to have a long-term plan before you make a move. First, think of your finances and insurance.

Do you have a safety net? Will your savings be enough for the time you are seeking a new job? How long are you planning to look for it? Of course, when it’s possible, quitting an old job is better after you have already secured a new one. However, it is not always an option.

Also, you need to be smart about leaving your old position. Being nice and professional is always a good choice. So exit it well. Inform your superior ahead of time, and maybe even find yourself a replacement.