Changing careers can feel daunting... but it’s also one of the most rewarding things you can do.
Whether you’re chasing a long-held dream, feeling unfulfilled in your current role, or seeking better work-life balance, making a career switch is entirely possible with the right planning, mindset, and support.
At NMS Recruit, we have helped countless candidates successfully pivot into new industries. Here’s how to make the transition smoothly and confidently.
Be Clear on Why You Want to Change
Before diving into applications, take time to understand your reasons for wanting a change. Are you bored? Burnt out? Looking for more purpose?
Pinpointing your “why” helps guide your next move and ensures you’re not simply running from one unsatisfying job to another.
Ask yourself:
What do I enjoy doing the most at work?
What am I naturally good at?
What kind of work environment suits me?
What matters more—salary, flexibility, progression, or purpose?
Being honest with yourself at this stage is key to finding the right fit going forward.
Research, Research, Research
Once you’ve got clarity, it’s time to explore your options. Look into industries or roles that align with your interests and transferable skills.
Great places to start:
Industry blogs, forums, and professional groups
Informational interviews with people already in that field
Job descriptions for roles that appeal to you
LinkedIn – look at career paths others have taken
If you’re unsure, a recruiter can help you assess your strengths and identify roles that might suit you.
Your Transferable Skills
You might not have direct experience in your new field, but chances are, you’ve built up skills that are highly valuable elsewhere.
Some common transferable skills include:
Communication and presentation
Project management
Team leadership
Analytical thinking
Customer service
Problem-solving
When updating your CV or preparing for interviews, highlight how these skills will add value in your new industry. Recruiters and employers love seeing adaptability and potential, not just experience.
Fill Any Gaps
While you don’t need to retrain completely, it’s wise to brush up on industry knowledge or gain some new qualifications if needed.
You could:
Take an online course (many are free or low-cost)
Volunteer or freelance to gain hands-on experience
Attend webinars or industry events
Subscribe to trade publications or follow relevant LinkedIn influencers
Showing that you’re proactive about learning will help set you apart from other candidates.
Your CV and LinkedIn Profile
A generic CV won’t cut it when you’re changing careers. Instead, tailor your documents to emphasise your relevant skills and potential.
Our top tips:
Start with a strong personal statement focused on your future goals and what you bring to the table.
Use achievement-based bullet points to highlight success in past roles.
Don’t bury transferable skills, bring them to the forefront.
Add a “Key Skills” section to help hiring managers quickly identify your strengths.
And don’t forget to update your LinkedIn profile(it’s often the first-place employers look).
Be Open to Starting Small
You might need to take a sideways step (or even a slight step back) to move forward in a new industry. That could mean a junior title or lower salary initially, but it’s all part of the long-term investment in your future.
Focus on roles that offer learning opportunities, career progression, and the chance to build experience. With the right attitude and support, you’ll climb the ladder quickly.
Your Network (and Recruiters!)
Changing careers can be tough on your own. Talk to people in your network who’ve made similar moves. Reach out to connections in your desired industry, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice or referrals.
And of course, speak to a recruiter. At NMS, we’re here to help candidates navigate career changes with practical advice, honest feedback, and access to great opportunities, whether in sales, finance, IT, commercial, or beyond.
Stay Positive and Persistent
Changing careers won’t happen overnight. You might get rejections. You might question yourself. That’s normal!
Stay focused on your long-term goal, keep learning from every experience, and remember it’s never too late to start a new chapter. With the right preparation and support, your next career move could be the most fulfilling one yet.
Ready to move?
We would love to help. Whether you’re exploring a career change or actively searching for your next role, get in touch with the NMS Recruit team today. Let’s make your career switch a successful one.
