Feeling stuck in your current job? You may be surprised to hear that the average person changes careers five to seven times during their professional life. With so many people pivoting to a new path, the big question is when is the perfect time for a career change?
This guide breaks down why now is the right moment for a career change and how to leverage current job market trends to embark on a fulfilling new career path.
8 Signs Now Is The Perfect Time For A Career Change
Knowing when it’s time to switch careers can be challenging. From financial concerns to personal commitments, knowing the best time to take the leap can be tough. So, to help you, we’ve rounded up eight signs that now is the right time to change careers.
1. You’ve researched job market trends and industry shifts
Researching job market trends and staying on top of industry shifts allows you to pinpoint emerging career opportunities in high-demand or growing industries. It also helps you spot potential challenges in your current career. By keeping your finger on the pulse, you can future-proof your career and identify when to make the switch.
For instance, if you notice that salaries in your current career path have become stagnant and the industry has slowed down, it could be time to pivot.
Industries such as healthcare, e-commerce, technology, and renewable energy are all rapidly growing sectors. Opting to change careers to join these industries can benefit you in the following ways:
- Increased job security
- Greater earning potential
- More career growth opportunities
- Innovative and exciting work environment
Discover the top career change employers in 2023 →
2. There’s a skill demand
If you notice a skill demand in a certain sector, this could be a golden opportunity to retrain and get your foot in the door. Industries with high demand for a specific skillset offer better compensation and career advancement opportunities.
The technology industry is an excellent example of a sector with a skill demand. Tech companies are crying out for experienced software developers, data analysts, and cybersecurity experts. As such, now could be the perfect time for a career change to tech if it aligns with your values and goals.
Search IT career change jobs →
3. You’re looking for remote work opportunities
Since the global pandemic, remote work has taken off. And it’s hardly surprising. Not only does it cut down on long commute times, but it allows people to escape the crippling housing prices in the major cities. As a result, employees have a better standard of living and a healthier work-life balance.
Once you’ve gotten a taste for remote working, returning to an office environment can be tricky. So, now could be the right moment to change careers to a field that offers flexible and remote working opportunities.
For instance, the technology, creative, finance, and marketing industries now offer a wide array of remote work positions.
Search remote jobs with no experience →
4. You want more opportunities for professional growth
If you’re feeling stuck or unfulfilled in your current role, a career change is an excellent way to grow professionally. When changing careers, you have the opportunity to explore different industries and roles, develop new skills, and experience different perspectives. All of this can make you a more well-rounded professional.
Certain industries, such as business, offer better professional growth opportunities than others. So making a career change can open doors to specialised training, leadership opportunities, and new qualifications. And with these things come better remuneration and increased employability.
In short, switching to a new industry may create new opportunities to advance your career.
5. You’ve achieved your career goals and want a new challenge
Sometimes you just reach the end of the road in your career, and there’s nowhere left to go. This can result in a lack of fulfilment and a thirst for a new challenge.
The first step is to define new career goals. Where do you want to go next? Maybe you want a break from your technical job and want to try your hand at a creative role. Whatever your goals, having clear objectives will help you decide when it’s time for a career change.
Pursuing new career goals won’t just lead to greater fulfilment and personal development; it could unlock higher earning potential too.
Thinking of pursuing a creative career? Get inspired with our guide on creative CV ideas.
6. You’re burnt out and have no job satisfaction
Experiencing burnout can take a significant toll on your mental and physical health. It can also leave you feeling unmotivated and unfulfilled at work. One of the best ways to combat this is to make a career change.
A fresh start can reinvigorate you and give you a new lease on life. Plus, opting for an industry that prioritises employee well-being and engagement can further increase your chances of getting over burnout.
While a career change can make all the difference, giving yourself time to recover and recharge before jumping headfirst into a brand-new career is essential.
7. You’re experiencing ageism in the workplace
Ageism or any type of discrimination in the workplace can leave you feeling dissatisfied and unhappy in your job. And while this may be a case of changing employers rather than a complete career overhaul, some industries experience more ageism than others.
If you’re experiencing ageism in your current position, now might be the perfect time for a career change. Switching to an industry that prioritises and values diversity and inclusivity can boost your morale and allows you to work in a more age-inclusive environment. Plus, inclusive workplaces are more innovative, better at problem-solving, and have higher performers.
Looking for an inclusive employer? Read our blog on 5 companies that employ older workers.
8. You’re craving better work-life balance and flexibility
After years in a high-stress working environment, you may be ready for a more flexible career with a better work-life balance. Whether it’s fewer hours or a slower pace you’re looking for, switching to a new career could be the best way to hit restart.
As more and more industries implement policies and procedures to promote employee well-being, now is the perfect time for a career change. When searching for a new career path, prioritise industries and employers that offer flexible working conditions and transparent policies and initiatives to support employee mental health.
Time For A Career Change? How We Can Help
Making a career change may be common, but that doesn’t mean it’s an easy decision. Look out for these signs if you’re ready for a fresh start but unsure if now is the perfect time for a career change. Making a move at the right time will increase your chances of successfully landing your dream role.
We believe it’s never too late to start a new career at Refreshing a Career. Our website is packed with valuable resources, including career change guides, confidence tips, CV advice, and much more.
For further advice, check out our resources on changing careers or browse our career change job board for opportunities near you.
