I timed my decision to make a career change perfectly – in the midst of a pandemic. I was in my final semester of a paralegal program and working full-time as a paralegal. After several months in this role, it became increasingly clear that this would not be a long-term career for me, at least not the role of a traditional paralegal. But I had a lot to consider beyond the fact that I was closer to retiring than not. As a naturally curious person, analyzing and researching potential jobs was, well, a job in itself. This search would be purposeful.
Ultimately, boredom compelled me to explore a career change. As a "seasoned" professional the decision to make a career shift was both daunting and exciting. I had certainly thought about staying put until retirement, but I had to put this six-figure education to more use. I still had lots to learn and lots to share. I was working in a job where I felt stuck – both personally and professionally. I was bored with the limited and unvaried assignments and was eager to expand my skillsets into other areas while still maintaining a connection with the legal environment.
I approached the task of securing new employment purposefully. I applied for any and all jobs that interested me. If I was going to embark upon this journey wholeheartedly and boldly, now was not the time to be reserved. I created a spreadsheet where I captured all of my job submissions and inquiries. Even if I didn't possess all of the qualifications, if I had any comparable life experiences or interest in it, I applied. However, I'd be remiss if I said this was a breeze – far from it. There were days, many days, weeks, and months, where I received no response or received an email informing me of an unfavorable decision. Eventually I landed a new job. I had never worked in this particular field. I recalled my strengths. Although a new profession, I wasn't new at working. I had some tools in my toolbox. I had life experiences and an arsenal of knowledge, skills, and abilities from 20 plus years of professional and educational experiences that would transfer well into this new role. Furthermore, the company valued what I had to offer them which made the transition more palpable.
Considering whether to venture into a new career – don’t complicate it.
One way to develop the courage to transition into a new job is to consider how you may have felt when transitioning from middle school to high school or high school to college. I didn't employ any particular formula or litmus test when deciding it was time for a career change, I just took that first step. I had a couple of pluses on my side. For instance, I was seeking a career change on my own terms. There was no rush or urgency in securing a job for the sake of having a "different" place to go. It was important to me to take my time and explore a variety of careers and options. Ironically, what I found most challenging was allowing myself to have a free-range, untethered approach to securing a new job.
Often times we may unknowingly allow circumstances to halt our intentions. However, a candid assessment of where you are and where you think you'd like to be may reveal hidden opportunities, talents, or paths. What you can control is being honest with yourself and being willing to pivot or re-assess if necessary. Even if what you think you want to do doesn't result the way you envisioned it, that's ok. Embracing the steps along the journey can prove equally rewarding as reaching the destination.
Enjoy the process and the journey, and be willing to dive into the unknown!
Dress for Success Triangle offers career tools to women at no cost. Meet with a career and image coach to prepare for your next interview by requesting an appointment here.
With more than 20 years of professional experiences in various areas of public service including affordable housing, higher education, compliance, and the legal industry, Lisa has embarked upon a quest to find that career that intersects her personal passion for the law and big heart for humanity. She holds a Master’s degree in public administration and is a NC certified paralegal. Most recently, Lisa gets to use her “potpourri” of experiences managing contracts for a global clinical research organization.
When she’s not spending time with family and friends, you can find Lisa with a book (and highlighter) in her hand, eating a soulful meal, or listening to all genres of music.