How to Change Careers with Confidence: 5 Things to Do First

Thinking of changing careers? You’re not alone.

Many of us have had that moment - whether it’s in the middle of a meeting, on a Monday morning, or during the daily commute - when we wonder “Is this it?” The desire to chuck in the towel and leap into something new is more common than you might think.

We’re no longer living in a world where a job for life is the norm. In fact, according to a 2023 study by the London School of Economics, the average person will change careers five to seven times in their working life. This isn’t just job-hopping within the same sector, it’s a complete pivot. The world of work is shifting, and so are we.

Layer in the rise of AI, automation, and hybrid roles, and it’s no wonder so many people are re-evaluating their careers. Research from the World Economic Forum suggests that 44% of workers’ core skills will change by 2027. Roles that didn’t even exist five years ago are now in high demand. That can feel unsettling, but it also opens the door to fresh possibilities. I’m an advocate for using technology to enhance rather than replace what we do - it’s how we adapt and evolve that matters most.

According to Randstad’s 2025 Workmonitor report, for the first time in the survey’s 22-year history, work-life balance has overtaken pay as the leading motivator for workers. This marks a significant cultural and psychological shift. After years of hustle culture and the pressures of constant connectivity, many people are rethinking what they value most.

The psychology behind this change is rooted in our fundamental human need for autonomy, competence, and connection - all core elements of motivation that are hard to sustain when we’re burned out or out of sync with our values. There's a growing sense that success is no longer measured solely by status or salary, but by how well our work supports a meaningful and sustainable life (this is particularly true for Gen-Z who are reshaping the workforce with a focus on purpose, balance, inclusivity, and continuous growth according to The Guardian, 2025). This shift offers real permission for career changers to seek fulfilment on their own terms.

If you're considering a career change, you’re not alone - and you’re not crazy. But before you make the leap, here are five essential steps I encourage all my coaching clients to take to ensure their career transition is thoughtful, intentional, and empowering.

1. Get Clear on Your Why

Ask yourself: Why do I want this change? Is it because you feel burnt out? Are you craving more purpose? Better work-life balance? Or have you simply outgrown your current role and feel drawn toward something more meaningful?

Clarity of purpose is your anchor. It’s what you’ll return to when doubt creeps in (and it will). When I pivoted into coaching, I knew deep down that my ‘why’ was about helping others unlock their potential. That grounding force helped me stay the course through the highs and lows of transition.

Try journaling around questions like:

• What do I want more of in my life and work?

• What do I want less of?

• If nothing changed in five years, how would I feel?

Remember that purpose doesn’t have to mean saving the world, it just has to mean something to you.

2. Audit Your Skills, Strengths, and Values

Before stepping into a new role, get really honest about what you’re good at and what truly matters to you.

This is about recognising your signature strengths. Ask yourself:

• What do people always come to me for help with?

• When do I feel most energised and in flow?

• What activities do I lose track of time doing?

Your values matter just as much. If your work isn’t aligned with what you care deeply about, it’s only a matter of time before burnout or dissatisfaction creeps in. I’ve coached many women who made a leap into what they thought was their dream job, only to discover it still didn’t align with their values.

Tools to try:

• VIA Character Strengths Survey (free)

• CliftonStrengths (paid)

Using your strengths daily increases confidence, engagement, and resilience - all key ingredients for navigating change.

3. Do Your Research (and talk to people!)

Dreaming of launching a bakery, becoming a designer, or retraining as a therapist? Great! Now it’s time to get curious and realistic.

We tend to either romanticise or catastrophise career changes. Instead, aim for clarity. Speak to people already doing the job. Ask what surprised them, what they love, and what’s hard about the role - and really listen.

This kind of informational interviewing helps break through assumptions and gives you the real picture.

Try this:

• Reach out to 2-3 people on LinkedIn with your dream job (also have a nosy to see what their career pathway was)

• Shadow someone or volunteer in the field.

• Join webinars or online communities related to your new career path.

This isn’t just research, it’s connection, insight, and inspiration.

4. Plan Your Finances Thoughtfully

Let’s talk money. Career changes often come with financial shifts, whether it’s retraining, a lower entry-level salary, or setting up your own business.

Start by doing a household audit. Could you cut costs for 6-12 months to give yourself breathing room? Could you take on a bridge job - something flexible or part-time - to ease the transition?

You don’t need everything perfectly lined up. But you do need a plan.

Simple steps:

• Track income and expenses using a spreadsheet or apps like Emma or Moneyhub.

• Build a 3–6-month emergency fund if you can.

• Research grants, scholarships, or training funds available in your sector.

A small buffer can give you the security and confidence to move forward with your career change.

5. Build Your Support System

You don’t have to do this alone. In fact, the most successful career changes are rarely solo efforts.

Whether it’s a career coach, a mentor in your new industry, a friend who’s made a bold leap, or a partner who can support the transition; having people in your corner matters.

Psychologist Albert Bandura’s research on self-efficacy shows that belief in our ability to succeed is strengthened by encouragement from others.

Try this:

• Make a list of your allies.

• Let them know what you’re planning and how they can help.

• Join a networking group, online community, or industry meet-up.

I often attend a business breakfast at Bath University School of Management, and it’s been invaluable for connection and support as a business owner. Find your people - they’ll help you stay the course.

Final Thoughts

A career change doesn’t have to be a leap off a cliff. The most successful transitions I’ve seen are made with small, intentional steps - a little clarity here, some research there, and a growing belief that you can do this.

Most of us aren’t starting from scratch, we’re starting from experience.

If you’re ready to explore a new direction, I’d love to help. My coaching programmes are designed to support women like you in navigating change with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Reach out for a free mini coaching session or follow along for more tools and mindset tips:

Instagram: @kateoatleycoaching

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