Preparing for a Career Shift

“Be open like a lotus flower.”

That’s what I tell my clients who are wading through big career shifts — whether they’re pivoting industries, re-entering the workforce after caregiving, or finding their footing post-layoff.

With intentional career shifts on the rise, openness is everything. Openness to learning, to new opportunities, to talking about the skills you already have and the value you bring.

Here’s how to bloom where you’re planted, while you prepare for what’s next.

• Read the video transcript

  Thinking about making a career change? You wouldn't be alone. 60% of millennials and Gen Zers say that they are ready to make a big switch this upcoming year.

  And trust me, I get it! My bread and butter are women who are adventuring out to make a big transition in the second act of their career. And while it may seem scary, it doesn't have to be impossible.

  Here are six steps that I think will help you prepare. 

  • Take a class.  Don't just think about it. Actually start learning! Whether it's a certification, a weekend workshop, or an online course, testing your skills in a learning space will give you both confidence and connections.

  • Talk to people doing the job.  While classes teach you skills. Informational chats will give you the real down and dirty on a job's day-to-day. Ask about challenges, wins, and what surprised them most about the role.

  • Research how others got started.  Read interviews, follow people's career journeys, and notice patterns. You'll quickly see that zigzags are totally normal.

  • Say your goals out loud.  This one sounds simple, but it's powerful. The more you speak it, whether it's to a friend, a stranger, or even right here on LinkedIn or on your résumé, the more real it feels.

  • Identify your transferable skills.  Contrary to that negative self-talk going on in your head, you are not starting from scratch. Communication, problem solving, adaptability. These all translate. Highlight them.

  • Take small steps every day.  Progress adds up! Update your LinkedIn. Read an article. Send a networking message. Little actions stack up into momentum.

  Here's the truth. A career change does not mean you're starting over. It's building upon what you've already done. If you keep taking small, intentional steps, that next big move will be closer than you think.

  Now tell me, are you considering a big shift this coming year? What's holding you back or pushing you forward?