Career change is much more than a new job

“Career change is much more than a new job and requires more significant advance planning and preparation,” says Lynne Sarikas, director of the MBA career center at Northeastern University’s College of Business Administration.

Here are some important steps she suggests:

1. Identify what it is you want to do, then research and network like crazy. What companies have these types of positions? What are the critical skill sets to succeed in these positions? Network extensively to learn about the companies and the positions of interest. Learn what it takes to be successful.

2. Realistically compare your current skill set to the desired skill set in the new career. Identify gaps and build a plan to address the gaps. Maybe it is a course or two you need to take somewhere to increase knowledge or skills. It may be a new software application you need to learn. Maybe it is some experience you could gain by volunteering for a non-profit or serving on a non-profit board. Don't expect the new employer to train you on required skills - build a plan to acquire the skills you need in order to succeed.

3. Identify the key publications and associations relevant to the new career. Attend meetings to hear about hot topics and to network. Read the trade publications to learn about timely issues and trends and to identify possible target organizations and individuals.

4. Carefully hone your pitch. Be able to make a compelling case of why you are making the change and the transferable skills you bring to the table. Show how things you have done in your career to date add value in the career of your choice.

5. Differentiate yourself at every opportunity - make sure your resume and cover letter stand out and position you as positively as possible, network so the key players know who you are, be professional in every interaction, be persistent and professional in all follow-up, this is a sales job - you have to sell yourself successfully to make the change. “Employers often value the fresh perspective when they can see transferable skills. With advance planning and preparation and a commitment to building the required skills, it is possible to be a very successful career changer,” Ms. Sarikas adds. “This isn't going to happen just searching online job boards and submitting resumes.”