Harit Gaba on Making a Successful Career Change

Harit Gaba shares some simple steps that you can take to make a successful career change. 

 Harit Gaba: How to Prepare for a Career Change

Whether you're looking to explore a new side gig or join an entirely different industry, leaving one role and starting a new one can be challenging. Are you making the right decision? Are you emotionally prepared? When is the right time to leap?

If you're ready to switch careers, here are some tips to get you started.

Consider what motivates and inspires you.

Harit Gaba says that if thoughts about switching careers have been bothering you for a while, start with some self-reflection. 

Understanding your motivations is crucial in setting the right intention as you look for openings, write your resume, and prepare for your interview.

Take stock of your current skills and those you need to develop.

It would be best if you weren't nervous about pursuing a new career, says Harit Gaba. The first step is to know your current skill set and the new skills you need and then find ways to bridge the gap.

Some industries need skills that overlap and can be applied to multiple positions. Transferable skills — like leading, collaboration, writing, emotional intelligence, and technical skills like coding and Excel — are useful across different sectors. For example, if you're moving from a product manager in a retail company to a marketing manager in a tech company, your ability to build client relationships, manage diverse views, and negotiate well are all skills you will need to succeed.

If you need to develop more job-specific skills, like expertise in new software, consider taking certificate programs or online courses before you apply for the role, notes Harit Gaba. YouTube instructional videos are another helpful resource to look into. Whatever efforts you make they will show your potential employer that you desire to adapt to challenges, learn, and work hard.

Finally, if you're looking to join a more specialized field, like social work or law, that requires an advanced degree, consider an online or part-time program. In this case, your journey may require much more effort and take much longer, but the growing number of online degree programs can help you ease into a new industry without significant career gaps.

Read more about career counseling and other related topics by subscribing to this Harit Gaba page.