Changing Careers in Australian Industry
Australian Apprenticeships are largely considered to be the starting point of long and fruitful careers for thousands of young Australians every year. However, they can also be a stepping stone for focussing or broadening your skill set, and have the ability to make you more desirable to employers or can help you change careers altogether.
There are many reasons one might consider a job or even a full career change. It could be a desire for better pay, better working conditions, and better work/life balance. It also may simply be dissatisfaction or unhappiness with the job you’re in.
No matter where you are in your career life cycle, being unhappy at work can be draining and have a serious effect on your personal life and mental health. Before making the decision to move on from your workplace, consider these tips first.
1. Get some perspective
What’s really going on? Think closely about what’s making you unhappy. It’s very easy to blame work at the end of the day, but maybe the issue is actually a personal one.
If you’re sure it’s the job, what is it about the job? Is it the work itself, or is it the people you work with? This could inform whether you make a job change or a full career change.
2. Pros and cons of changing careers
What is good and satisfying about your current position, and what is frustrating? Once you identify what you do and don’t like, it can be easy to see what a new position needs to offer in order for you to be happy.
3. Research your ideal role
Before jumping ship, do some research into industries and roles that are looking for someone with your skill set or are offering professional development. Depending on what kind of shift you’re making, be prepared to return to a learning role.
Sometimes you may have to take a few small steps to get where you want to go and make the change you’re looking for.
4. Be realistic
Moving into a new role may mean taking a pay cut. This is especially true if you intend to return to an apprenticeship role on standard apprentice wages. Making a financial sacrifice to change industries and gain the skills, training and development you want can be worth it in the long run. Be smart: work out what you can afford and do your research.
5.: Nothing worth having is meant to be easy
The hard work will make you appreciate the victory in the end.
If you’re thinking about changing careers but are unsure of where to go from here, give MIGAS a call. As well as providing opportunities for young Australians to start their careers, we also offer re-skilling and up-skilling options in many industry sectors.
We can help you make an informed decision on where to go from here, and hopefully help you on your way to a new and exciting career.
Contact your local MIGAS office or browse our Jobs Board for current apprenticeship and traineeship vacancies.