Are you ready to move out of your current job or industry and not sure how to start?  Have you been a victim of a job layoff or recent graduate frustrated while looking for a job?  Are you struggling with a recent disability diagnosis and can no longer do the work you have been doing? 

There are several steps you can take to transition yourself in the jobs marketplace.

First, begin by creating a list of all connections, contacts and previous colleagues;  LinkedIn the world’s largest professional networking site, is a good place to find people you may want to contact and reconnect and outreach to schedule a brief phone call or meet over a coffee to discuss options, possibilities and to gather information for job potential opportunities or referrals. Note: This is strictly to gather information and for no other purpose, do not ask to provide your resume at this point, unless it is requested.

“Someone you know; knows someone; looking for someone; just like you.”-Denise Anne Taylor, Career Coach

Next, tell everyone and anyone you are looking for work or moving in a different direction; they will be your extended “eyes and ears”. This will keep you top of mind. 

Additionally, create eye-catching and  affordable business cards for your job search to use at job interviews, networking events, and when meeting new people.

Also, your resume will reflect your specialized field, however, in the cover letter you can separate your transferable skills and abilities, that apply across industries, and that  can transition to another role utilizing the job posting as a guide.

Remember, do not hesitate to outreach through networking events and engagements in your area through a local chamber of commerce or trade association. Research shows 80% of your success will be due in part to your circle of influence also known as your network.

In addition, have you considered going back to school to brush up on skills and bring them current for the jobs marketplace?  For example, do you want to master and explore new skills in coding, design, marketing, technology, and data — online or at their campuses around the world?  If so, try General Assembly.  There many possibilities for acquiring and learning new skills and many can be from the comfort of your home and online.

If you graduated from a local university, community college or trade school, contact or visit their career services department and they will have available resources to guide and assist you in your transition.  Campus career services departments are a valuable resource to current students and alumni.  Many alumni fail to use their connections and support that can be found through their alma mater, and it does not matter when you graduated; it just matters that you need help and support, now.  Career service representatives are employed and paid to service their student populations and alumni on all facets of their career pathway.

Finally, as you move forward, be sure to send a letter of thanks to those that have supported your efforts during your transition and update them on your successful landing of a new job opportunity.

Begin with these steps and good luck with your search! 

Updated 02/11/17.