Ready for a change? How to pivot your career after years in the same role

It's a familiar scenario for many: you’ve settled comfortably into a role, perhaps for a decade or more. You know the ropes, your colleagues are like family, and the daily commute is almost on autopilot. But beneath the surface, a quiet yearning for something new begins to stir. The thought of a career pivot, however, can feel daunting when you've been in one position for what feels like an eternity. Fear not – reinvention isn't just for the twenty-somethings.

The familiarity trap and the urge to leap

While stability has its undeniable merits, an extended stay in one role can sometimes lead to a sense of stagnation. You might feel your skills are becoming niche, or that the broader professional landscape is shifting while you’re standing still. The pandemic, too, has prompted many to re-evaluate their priorities, leading to a surge in professionals considering a significant career change.

But how do you even begin to untangle yourself from a long-held position and successfully land something entirely different? It starts with strategic self-reflection and a proactive approach.

1. Identify your transferable skills (They’re there, trust us)

This is perhaps the most crucial step. When you’ve been doing the same job for years, it’s easy to pigeonhole yourself. Take a pen and paper – or a digital document – and list every single skill you've honed. Think beyond the obvious job description points. Did you manage a team? That's leadership and project management. Did you resolve customer complaints? That's problem-solving, communication, and diplomacy. Did you train new staff? That's mentorship and instructional design.

Often, the "soft skills" you've developed – resilience, adaptability, critical thinking – are incredibly valuable and highly transferable across various industries. Don’t underestimate them.

2. Network, Network, Network (Beyond your usual circles)

Your existing professional network is undoubtedly valuable, but it's likely heavily weighted towards your current industry. To pivot, you need to broaden your horizons. Start by identifying the fields or roles that genuinely excite you. Then, proactively seek out individuals working in those areas. LinkedIn is your friend here, as are industry events (both online and in-person).

Don't just ask for a job; ask for advice. Express your interest in their field, enquire about the challenges and rewards, and seek their insights on how someone with your background might transition. Informational interviews are incredibly powerful for gaining clarity and making genuine connections.

3. Fill the gaps: upskill and reskill

Once you've identified your desired direction, you might find there are specific technical skills or certifications you're lacking. This isn't a barrier; it's an opportunity. The world of online learning offers a wealth of resources, from free courses on platforms like Coursera and edX to more intensive bootcamps.

Demonstrating a willingness to learn and invest in your own development shows prospective employers your commitment to the pivot. Even a small project or volunteer role in your desired field can provide valuable experience and talking points for interviews.

4. Craft a future-focused CV and cover letter

Your old CV, perfectly tailored for your previous role, won't cut it. Your new CV needs to highlight your transferable skills and clearly articulate why you're making the pivot. Focus on achievements rather than just responsibilities. Quantify your successes wherever possible.

Your cover letter is where you truly sell your story. Explain your motivation for the change, draw clear lines between your past experiences and the requirements of the new role, and express genuine enthusiasm. Don't apologise for your long tenure; frame it as a testament to your loyalty, dedication, and deep-seated experience.

5. Embrace the process (and the rejections)

Changing careers after a long period in one role is rarely an overnight success story. There will be rejections, moments of self-doubt, and perhaps even a step backwards before you move forward. This is all part of the journey.

Maintain a positive mindset, learn from every interview, and refine your approach. Your extensive experience brings a level of maturity, wisdom, and a proven work ethic that younger, less experienced candidates simply can't offer. Play to these strengths.

Ultimately, a career pivot isn't about abandoning your past; it's about building on it. Your years of experience have equipped you with a unique set of skills and perspectives. With a clear strategy and a good dose of resilience, your next exciting chapter awaits.

Go on, take the leap.