The 3 Most Common Career Change Questions

Thinking about changing careers but feeling stuck on the ‘how’?

After working with countless career changers, I’ve noticed a fair few career change questions  that come up time and time again. Here are the top three, and my best advice for navigating them.

1️⃣ How do I know what careers are out there?

Many people are limited by what they already know, but there are so many career paths that might be a great fit. This is where AI can be a game-changer.

In my coaching process, we use ChatGPT to generate tailored career ideas based on key factors like:

✔ Likes and dislikes

✔ Personality profile

✔ Values and non-negotiables

✔ Experience, skills and strengths

✔ Preferred location and working style

This process often uncovers career options that my clients have never heard of or considered before! That’s why I use it in both my 1-1 coaching and the online membership for career changers.

2️⃣ How do I transition into a field where I have no direct experience?

Making a career shift doesn’t mean starting from scratch. Here’s how you can gain relevant experience and also, make yourself a strong candidate:

✔ Take courses (Udemy, Coursera, industry certifications)

✔ Shadow professionals or volunteer in the field

✔ Move into a different company that interests you in your current role, with the aim of transitioning internally

✔ Network strategically and showcase your transferable skills

Sometimes, it’s not about learning new skills but rather about marketing your existing skills effectively. Addressing this career change question early can save a lot of stress.

3️⃣ Do I have to take a pay cut?

Not necessarily! It depends on several factors:

✔ The industry you’re moving from and into

✔ Your current salary

✔ And also, how closely aligned your experience is with your new field!

Even if a slight pay cut is required, it’s often temporary. Ask yourself: Would taking a lower salary for a couple of years be worth it for long-term career satisfaction? For many, the answer is a resounding yes.

This is another career change question I hear often, and the answer is always nuanced, and not as bad as you first may think! So many skills are transferrable...

Final Thoughts on Career Change Questions

Changing careers can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategy, it’s completely possible and can become much less stressful.

Start with these questions, and if you’re ready to explore new opportunities and want expert support, then, let’s chat!