Changing careers can be both exciting and overwhelming. More people than ever are considering a pivot to a more fulfilling career. Unfortunately, the road to a new career is often rocky, with many obstacles that may cause you to feel defeated or demoralized. 

Take it from me – I have already changed careers three times in just my twenty years in the workforce. Here are seven common career change challenges and practical strategies to help you smoothly transition into a new position or industry.

Obstacle 1: Fear of the Unknown

Fear of the unknown is among the most significant barriers to changing careers. When you step out of the safe and familiar, you may be concerned about your future, your ability to succeed, and even your identity. The anxiety and fear can be paralyzing, leading to procrastination or the decision to stick with the familiar, even if it no longer serves you.

How to Overcome It:

The key to overcoming fear is to prepare yourself and face it head-on. Research your new industry and potential employers to identify in-demand positions that align with your skills and passions. Take the career quizzes from Appily Advance to help you narrow down potential new roles within the business, healthcare, and education industries. Get advice on the current hiring practices, relevant industry-standard programs or software, and industry trends. The more information you gather about the application process and expectations, the less daunting the unknown becomes. 

Obstacle 2: Financial Concerns

Money is a significant concern for many people considering a career change. The prospect of unemployment, the cost of acquiring new skills or education, and the possibility of a pay cut can make a career shift seem nearly impossible–our bills have to get paid somehow, right? Financial situations are often what keep people stuck in less-than-fulfilling careers. 

How to Overcome It:

Financial planning is essential when considering a career change. Create a budget that accounts for potential changes in income and figure out how you'll manage your finances until your first paycheck in your new role. You may need a part-time job or contract gigs to make ends meet if you're unemployed. Always inquire about scholarships, grants, or loans if additional education is required. Some employers may even offer tuition assistance in exchange for a commitment to work for them for a length of time.

Obstacle 3: Lack of Experience in the New Field

Switching to a new career often means entering an industry where you may not have directly relevant experience. This is a disadvantage, as employers typically look for candidates with a proven track record and expertise using specific skills or tools. However, you likely possess transferable skills that, if presented effectively, can make you a compelling candidate.

How to Overcome It:

Identify the transferable skills you already have, such as project management, written communication, or leadership skills, which are valuable across industries. Gain hands-on experience through pet projects, internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs in your target field. You can start learning new technology tools or programs required in your desired field. Remember, the experience gap can be bridged with creativity, determination, and a willingness to learn.

Obstacle 4: Age and Perceived Overqualification

For older professionals, changing careers later in life presents unique challenges. You may experience age discrimination or be perceived as overqualified, making you more expensive to hire. The fear of being overlooked or not fitting into a younger work culture can be discouraging.

How to Overcome It:

Reframe your experience and skills to highlight how they can benefit a potential employer. Highlight your documented years of solid work ethic, breadth of knowledge, adaptability, and unique perspective you can bring. Emphasize your desire to learn and your commitment to staying updated with industry trends. Tailor your resume and LinkedIn profile to showcase how your experience aligns with the demands of the new role, focusing on skills and results rather than years of experience.

Obstacle 5: Educational Requirements

Entering a new field may require you to meet specific educational or certification requirements. This can be a significant barrier, especially if you've been out of school for a while or if the required qualifications are expensive or difficult to achieve. 

How to Overcome It:

Fortunately, there are numerous ways to acquire the necessary education without committing to a complete 4-year degree program. Online courses, boot camps, certifications, and continuing education programs offer flexible and affordable options. Many colleges or vocational schools offer "fast track" programs for certain career paths to get you working as soon as possible. 

Obstacle 6: Lack of Confidence and Self-Doubt

Self-doubt and a lack of confidence are common feelings when facing a career change. During my own career transition, I really struggled with a severe case of "impostor syndrome," which made me question my competency, skills, and ability to succeed in a new field—so much so that I often didn't even bother applying to jobs I wasn't 100% qualified for. It may just seem easier to stay in your current career, no matter how unhappy it makes you. 

How to Overcome It:

Boost your confidence by arming yourself with a new resume and LinkedIn profile optimized for your new career or industry. Ask former colleagues, clients, or bosses to write letters of recommendation to remind you of your past successes. Seek feedback from mentors or colleagues and use it constructively to improve. If a job posting interests you and you meet most of the qualifications, go ahead and throw your hat in the ring.

Obstacle 7: Balancing Career Change with Personal Responsibilities

Balancing a career change with personal responsibilities, such as childcare, community involvement, and current job obligations, can be challenging. Life's demands and obligations don't take a break just because you're pursuing a new career, making it difficult to find time to focus on your transition.

How to Overcome It:

Effective time management is essential when juggling a career change with personal responsibilities. Triage your tasks based on urgency and importance, and be realistic about what you can accomplish in a certain period. Talk to your family about your goals and needs and seek their support during this time. 

Change Your Career With Confidence

Pivoting careers is no easy task, but by understanding the common challenges and creating a plan of attack, you can overcome self-doubt, financial concerns, lack of experience, and other barriers holding you back. Remember, every step you take brings you closer to a more fulfilling and rewarding career.

Are you ready to take the first step toward your new career? Let Appily Advance help! Take our career change quiz to discover the best new career path for you.