Over the past two years I have found myself stuck in the same cycle.
Each day became a blur as I tackled administrative tasks that, while vital, did not fulfill my growth. I am always looking for opportunities to utilize the skills I developed as an Administrative Assistant and take on new challenges as a Case Manager.
If you’re in the same situation, it’s time to change things up.
Let’s take a look at my story of how I broke out of monotony, leveraged my existing skills, and embarked on a journey of reinvention through a career change. What’s more, here’s how you can do it too.
My career change story
As an Administrative Assistant, I support senior executives in their day-to-day operations. This experience has been invaluable in my career development. It expanded my perspective on organizational dynamics, developed strong communication skills and taught me attention to detail.
However, my career ambitions lean towards roles where I can lead, create and drive change.
52%
of U.S. workers want to change careers
Source: “Fast Company”
Know my goals
Before I made a career change, I wanted to understand what it meant to be a case manager. While it’s satisfying to daydream about how my ideal position would be different from my current position, it’s crucial to understand the intricacies of a case manager before committing to this as a new career path.
Having a mentor who believes in your potential will be a game changer. I am lucky enough to report to people who support my ambitions. During our regular conference calls, I talked about my interest in exploring a new role in project management.
I explained why my current experience qualified me for the position and asked if I could explore the position at my current company. My manager recognized my abilities and helped me fulfill my administrative assistant duties while I took the time to develop my skills.
Get support
A key aspect of my transition was the tailored resources provided by my boss, colleagues, and company. From recommending relevant courses and certifications to connecting me with industry experts, they went above and beyond to support me. This personal approach made the learning curve more manageable and helped me become more confident.
My manager also introduced me to someone who had gone through the extensive project management certification process.
He spoke to me cordially and explained the time and dedication it would take for me to become certified. Unexpectedly, he told me that I could save energy and skip certification. He gave me some insight into his career path and let me know that while certifications help him network with future colleagues and industry connections, they are not necessary if there are learning opportunities in your current position.
Learn from your peers
Inspired by this idea, I dug deeper into my workplace. G2 recently launched a training program where employees can explore different roles within the company while maintaining their current position. I contacted the Director of Employee Success (ES) and asked to participate. By scheduling time with my manager, I will be able to learn the ropes of project management.
Through this program, I work with existing project managers to help them develop project plans, take notes, and meet deadlines. The project management team members were also an important part of my transition.
They mentored me and took the time to teach me the tools they use, how they manage their time, and their perspectives on the most challenging obstacles. Through open communication and regular mentoring meetings, I gained a deep understanding of the complexities of project management and learned how to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities.
Make a decision
After about two months, my time on the project ended. I made a decision: Is project management right for me? I did a self-assessment to confirm that this was the change I wanted to make. I documented my thoughts and the pros and cons of each position and talked about my feelings with friends, colleagues, and my therapist.
My answer is still the same: I definitely want to pursue this. I went through a formal interview process with the manager who worked on my project. Since then, I have developed a transition plan with the senior executives I have been assisting. I’m officially a project manager!
While it feels incredible to achieve this goal, it’s important to know that this transformation is not instantaneous. It requires courage, perseverance and a readiness to learn.
While my previous roles provided a solid foundation, moving into project management was a paradigm shift—from supporting to leading, from executing tasks to directing the entire program, from following instructions to developing strategy. There is still a lot to learn as I continue to grow in this role, but for now, I have some tips and tricks to help you make that big decision.
Are you ready for a career change?
If you find yourself scrolling through my stories looking for “tips,” let’s get honest and discuss how you can investigate whether it’s time to make a change.
First, know that you are not alone. 52% of U.S. workers want to change careers, 44% have plans to execute. Reasons for this decision include seeking remote work options, better salaries, and different career opportunities.
If you’re reading this article, there’s a good chance you’re among the 52 percent of employees, and so are your friends and colleagues. Have conversations with these people to help expand your ideas of what you’re looking for.
Secondly, give yourself a mental check-up! Do you have ongoing Sunday fears? Do you dread logging in every day? Just because we live in a work-oriented society doesn’t mean we have to be miserable. You deserve to find a job that energizes and excites you!
82%
Job satisfaction is higher among people who change careers
Source: ZipDo
How to make a successful career transition
So you’re in good company and know you’re ready to give yourself the life you deserve. How do we achieve this goal?
- Determine your current skills: What work, volunteer or life experiences have helped prepare you for the role you are seeking? How do you apply what you’ve learned on your new path? Identifying the skills you currently possess will help you gain confidence and identify areas for improvement.
- Prepare a list of occupations: Think of this as manifesting your purpose. What are you looking forward to in your new role? Increase salary options? More learning experiences? Leadership opportunities? Write down your goals so that you stay true to them throughout the process.
- Get a sneak peek at your new career path: Does your company offer learning programs? Explore options such as shadowing people in the job you want, interviewing people with your ideal title, and doing some research on salary expectations and potential employers.
- Set attainable goals: Chances are you already have a full-time job. Work with yourself and your manager to set expectations for how much time you will need to study on the job. Maybe you want to apply for a specific number of jobs per week or earn certain certifications. You may also have a transition goal timeline.These goals should be clever (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-Based) to help you succeed.
- adventure: Revise your resume to focus on the skills you will bring to the new role.join in 82% People who are more satisfied with their new roles
Go to next career page
My career change journey highlighted the importance of mentorship, tailored resources and a supportive work environment in facilitating career change. I am grateful for the opportunities and mentorships I have received that have transformed my career and life. It’s not too late for you! Leverage the talent, resources and support available around you to help transform your career into the career of your dreams.
Does your current position make you want to move elsewhere?When exploring your career change options, consider learning more about how to manage burnout.
