When we talk about people facing a career change, we mostly think about younger people who have realized that their current careers aren’t offering enough or who made a wrong career choice. Unfortunately, they are not the only ones who want or need to jump ship. Even seasoned professionals sometimes change their jobs, but that comes with many challenges. If you’re one of them, take a look at the following list of tips on how to overcome such problems.
Hurt ego
It’s logical that senior executives feel the loss of self-esteem and self-worth, embarrassment, and shame. After all, they’ve reached a respectable position in their profession and are used to a managerial position. This problem is best overcome by keeping the “usual life” going (family activities, hobbies, etc.) and focusing on your worth outside of the job. You should also be open to learning new things and connecting and sharing the experience with other top executives in transition. Don’t be afraid to ask them for help!
Losing resources
You may not be used to doing the day-to-day administrative tasks yourself or you may lack some basic habits and skills for details and logistics. If you fall into that category, it’s time you learned new behaviors and organizational skills and started respecting the small tasks that support the whole process.
You probably won’t get a high-end job
Such jobs are much more difficult to find, and your search will take longer. There are fewer opportunities at this level, which means you’ll need to be much more patient if you’re looking for such a job. That’s why you need to expand your scope, be more flexible, and be ready to relocate. You might want to take a short-term step back in title to eventually move forward. Alternatively, you could explore consulting or starting/buying a business.
Feeling abandoned
Another problem that senior executives face when changing careers is that they feel left out, which leads to a lack of self-confidence and self-esteem. Such a crisis of confidence can be very debilitating. One of the best ways to deal with it is to turn to experts in efficient career coaching, who can help professionals unlock unrealized strengths and pursue their limitless potential and who find themselves at a career crossroads and are unsure where to turn.
Get in touch with right people
Experienced professionals find it difficult to get through senior executives’ gatekeepers, especially since human resources can offer little or no help in this regard. You need to talk to hiring managers about how you can help them reach their business goals. Also, join and participate in executive networking programs, board of directors, and venture capital groups. Call in favors and get help from senior-level friends and colleagues.
Age
Chances are, you’ll be perceived as being too old or “washed-up”. Naturally, employers will fear that you won’t remain long at the company and will have their concerns about investing in you, especially if you don’t have the technical skills necessary to thrive in today’s work environment. To tackle this problem, you should refocus on your exceptional qualifications, proven results, and experience, rather than your age. However, you need to know the culture of the company: if there is no one older than 40, you shouldn’t apply for a job there if you’re 65. Instead, target smaller companies that would appreciate experience, contacts, and credibility and stay up-to-date and informed about your industry.
Perception of others
You might not be taken seriously as a job candidate or others may project their own fears onto you or be in denial or act dismissive. In those situations, you need to tell the story about your departure from the company and let everyone know that you’re ok with the situation. Be genuine, relaxed, and humble.
If you have a better understanding of the special challenges you’re facing and implement the solutions suggested above, you’ll significantly improve your job search results and decrease your level of anxiety and frustration. This should, hopefully, lead you to a successful career transition.