1. Know what you want

Before you can start out on a new journey, you need some direction. Before you start 'flipping tables and flipping off the boss', take your time and do some research into new career avenues.

Think about the things your job lacks, and the things you want.

The TAFE NSW Counselling and Career Development Service is free and confidential and is designed to help you succeed in your studies at TAFE NSW, as well as in your chosen career. 

2. Know what you have

Even with drastic career changes, you will already have many of the skills to become successful in a new role. Make sure your skills are recognised so you can leverage them.

Skills that often translate include:

• Time-management, planning and organisational skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Teamwork
• Communication skills
• Word processing and spreadsheet skills

3. Know what you need

You need to understand what is required of you to be able to successfully move across into your new career.

You may be surprised where your existing qualifications and previous experience can get you. If you need further qualifications, contact TAFE NSW and let us know about any skills and knowledge you may have gained through working, volunteering or previous study. By applying for recognition, you could reduce the amount of time you need to study and get a new qualification faster.

4. Switch on your online self

You may also need to overhaul your 'online presence'. This means ensuring that your online career profiles are up to date. This can help potential employers understand that you aren’t just thinking about a change, that you’ve already made the shift into their industry.

Lucky for you, we have some advice on your online profile too.

5. It's a change for good

When hiring, employers look for people who are eager to work, and who will bring energy.

You need to show that you’re raring to go. Your change is a positive for you - you're not looking for something easier! Positive energy is a huge value in itself.

6. Know how to make it happen

Try and make short-term and long-term goals of what you want to accomplish, then give them a completion date. Pencil in some dates in between as a way of tracking your processes, and maintain a steady course, noting down the items you need to accomplish at each stage.

Your action plan may include things like:

• A list of contacts with names, numbers and email addresses
• A system to show who you’ve contacted, when you made contact and what you sent them
• A range of CVs and cover letters easily tailored to each job you might apply for
• Dates for TAFE NSW Open Day, job fairs, networking events, webinars, etc., and
• Check out skill-building workshops, seminars, volunteering opportunities and more

Know that you need to stick with it

Don’t give up. You may have to make some adjustments along the way, but persistence is your friend. The only way to get what you really want is to never stop chasing it.

Eventually, you will reach your goal.

Start your new career journey