Common Mistakes When Considering a Career Change

Oct 21, 2025 | Podcast

“You should not be basing your resume on what you’re doing now. Focus on the skills you have that showcase how you’d be successful in the role you want.”

Changing careers can be one of the most rewarding decisions you make. It’s also one of the most misunderstood. I’ve seen countless professionals hold themselves back because they underestimate what they already bring to the table.

People convince themselves they can’t make the leap. They want change, but they are afraid they don’t have the ability to pivot. They tell themselves, “I’ve always worked in this field, so who would hire me somewhere else?” The truth is, transferable skills exist in every industry. Teachers become strong sales professionals. Hospitality workers become great project managers. The key is identifying how your past experiences align with your future goals.

That leads to the second mistake people make: failing to tailor your resume and approach. A generic, one-size-fits-all application doesn’t work anymore. Please do not make one version to send for various roles. Instead, find a posting that matches the direction you want to go. Study the skills and responsibilities listed. Then, highlight the achievements in your current or past roles that prove you can do those things. They don’t want to hear about what you’ve done in other roles. Write about how your experience makes you a great person to do the work expected for the role you want.

Finally, let’s talk networking. The old “drop off your resume” strategy doesn’t work in today’s digital world. Modern networking is about relationships and contribution. Don’t message someone you’ve never met – or anyone for that matter – and lead with “Can you get me a job?” Seek advice around changing roles, learn about the industry, or engage in conversations to learn how you can contribute to their company. Then act on the insight you receive. Once you’ve taken the advice, make sure to follow up and share how their guidance helped. If you take advice without taking action people will stop giving you their time.

A successful career pivot isn’t about luck or perfect timing. It’s about making sure you are clear with that you want, communicate how you can provide value in the role you desire, and put in consistent effort. When you believe you can do it and build relationships the right way, the right door will open.