Changing career paths is a big decision that should be approached thoughtfully. Before taking the leap, you must ask yourself important questions, such as: “What are the driving forces of this change? And, am I truly qualified to take this leap?”
When I transitioned from the education sector, after 12 years of teaching, into an administration and operations role for a marketing company, I faced a common challenge: Imposter Syndrome.
Despite the excitement of finding work that offered the conditions I was looking for (part-time, remote working, etc.), I was incredibly nervous. I was jumping into a completely different professional field. What did I really know about this industry?
The truth is—nothing. I didn’t know what it meant to design a website or develop a company’s brand identity. But what did I know, and what was I hired for? Administration. As the Head of Department for the Foundation Phase, I was used to keeping things moving and spinning multiple plates simultaneously. Although my administration experience was in a school setting, I realized that skills are transferable. The art of multitasking, team coordination, managing multiple projects, and time management are all skills I brought from my teaching years to my current role as Head of Operations for a marketing company (and I now know much more about marketing than when I started). I’m not boasting, but I am emphasizing this: know your strengths (and I don’t mean just knowing how to use Microsoft Office).
Imposter syndrome is real, but here’s what I’ve learned: it can drive education and growth. If you don’t feel capable of certain aspects of your job because you’ve never done them before, learn. Take courses, find a YouTube video explaining the topic, ask seasoned professionals for advice, and lean into the strengths you already possess.
I am not advocating for lying on your CV or overreaching just to get a job and then trying to figure things out. Be honest about your abilities. When you face a challenge in the workplace that you’re not confident with, don’t “fake it ’til you make it.” Learn how to do it better.
So, when considering a career change, whether within your field or a complete shift, consider a few things:
Making the choice to change career paths can be terrifying – but don’t let fear hold you back. Embrace the discomfort and allow it to elevate your performance in your new position.
