If you’re here, you probably thinking of a career switch – you may have found out that your passion lies elsewhere, your previous salary is too low or the industry you’re in is a sunset industry. It may even be a combination of all these factors.

Or you may have been retrenched.

Whatever the reason, switching your careers is actually more common in Singapore than you think. According to WSG’s figures as a proxy, making a mid-career switch is an increasingly popular trend. In 2016, there were about 1,300 PCP placements. In 2019, the number rose to almost 4,500.

So how do you get a new job? Whether you’re just starting to send out your job applications or months into your job search, follow the steps below to quickly land a job that you actually want.

1. Know what you want and manage your expectations

The most important question to ask yourself before you send out the next job application is this: Is this really the industry I’d like to be in?

The worst thing you can do is to enter another job and find that it does not match up to your expectations again. Other questions to ask yourself are the following: Is the job fulfilling? Are there future growth opportunities? Is the salary acceptable?

It’s also prudent to manage your expectations. Making a career switch is starting from square one all over again. The learning curve is steep and your salary will likely take a dive as well. A general rule of thumb is to have at least 6 months of your last income saved up before you do a career switch.

Do your research, be aware of the industry and make the leap.

2. Grow your skills and update your resume

“Why should I hire someone with no experience?”

This will likely be a common question in all your interviews. It’s true, why should the company take such a risk?

This is why you have to make yourself marketable and employable.

Start by identifying the skills (i.e. project management and leadership) that you currently possess and can be transferred to your new job or industry.

Next, be aware of the skill gaps and pick up the relevant skills needed in the field you’d like to work in. Learn to walk before you run. Start small and attend basic courses.

This will help you gain confidence in your ability to learn and become familiar with the industry you’d like to be in. Ways to do so include taking up courses and studying for a certification. The skill gaps will eventually get smaller and smaller.

Lastly, update your resume with all the new skills that you have picked up and the certifications you have earned.

3. Make use of your connections

You’d be surprised how much your friends and colleagues around you are willing to help. You just have to take the first step and ask.

They can endorse you for skills and leave testimonials on your LinkedIn profile that will maximise your appeal to potential new employers.

Word-of-mouth is a good way to spread the word about your job search. You will probably be amazed at your social network’s reach and willingness to help you.

4. Get a good career coach

A career coach helps you to connect your skills, personality, values and distinct interests to the job opportunities you’re searching for. He/She will be a mine of useful information.

If you’re chasing a new passion or still unsure which path to take, getting another perspective from a professional career coach is extremely helpful.

If you’re interested to hire a career coach in Singapore, here are some features of a good career coach to look out for.

5. Stay ahead of the job market today

Over the past 4 years, our team of 200 career coaches has completed over 500 successful job placements.

We care deeply about your career aspirations and aim to help you achieve your career goals. Our career coaches and industry mentors will guide you through your journey of making a career switch in Singapore.

Contact us today at 6694 1262 to find out more.