Career Change Archives

Our Top Tips on Career Transitioning

Career choices don’t have to be permanent. Changing circumstances, goals and interests, or an unplanned change in career status can lead many of us to explore new industries and roles. And although it can be a daunting experience, statistics show that during the year ending February 2022, 1.3 million people (or 9.5 per cent of employed people) changed jobs. That’s the highest annual job mobility rate since 2012.

Here are our top tips if you are considering career transitioning, including gaining clarity on what you want and taking action to achieve it.

What drives career change

There is a range of reasons people decide to change careers. They include because you:

Want a better quality of life — mentally, physically and/or emotionally.
Want to reduce stress.
Want to increase your self-esteem.
Want a more meaningful job that aligns with your values, passions and life goals.
Have become apathetic to change.
Are jealous of your friends’ jobs.
Want a better work-life balance, including working remotely or having a more flexible work schedule.
Lack energy or are bored or frustrated with your current job.
Have been made redundant or experienced a reduction in work hours.
Need to earn more income. Some inspiration … according to a recent article by the Australian Financial Review, skilled workers in demand who change jobs could be rewarded with a pay rise of up to 20 per cent. This is partly due to forecasts for record-low unemployment, falling inflation, and the decades-long downward trend in job movement being reversed thanks to Australia’s historically tight labour market.

Before you transition careers

Before considering career transitioning, it’s vital you make a plan, set goals, develop a timeline, and take some steps to prepare yourself. They can include:

Self-assessment

This is a great place to start. Significant challenges can result from changing careers, so you should be clear about what you want in the future. Some questions to yourself: What do I want from a career? What is my “dream job”? What sacrifices am I prepared to make to achieve it? What financial commitments need to be covered? What are my strengths and weaknesses?

Identifying your skills

These include technical or “hard” skills that help you perform a specific task and can include qualifications, education, training, certifications and role or industry-specific knowledge you have gained over your career. They also include “soft” skills, which, according to Indeed, aren’t about the knowledge you possess, but rather the behaviours you display in certain situations.

According to LinkedIn, the top 16 in-demand soft skills for 2022 are adaptability, communication, critical thinking, digital literacy, time management, initiative, teamwork, leadership, proactivity, networking, life-long learning, negotiation, self-care, emotional intelligence, confidence and resilience.

Experimentation

According to a quote by Herminia Ibarra in her book, Working Identity, “By far the biggest mistake people make when trying to change careers is to delay taking the first step until they have settled on a destination”. It sums up her view that career transitioning is not necessarily just a product of careful planning but comes from experimenting — including in your current role.

According to a LinkedIn article, career experimentation is a risk-free way to try out new “identities”, roles or responsibilities while still connected to the security of your current identity and career. It could be

taking on an additional role, a temporary project, finding a coach or mentor, or seeking new types of training or educational opportunities.

Networking

Building and leveraging networks to support your career change progress can be enormously beneficial. Connecting with industry professionals — in-person at industry events or via associations, or online through sites such as LinkedIn — can give you guidance and advice about your new career path. They may also introduce you to valuable contacts or recommend job openings that might suit you.

During your career transition

Career transitioning requires commitment and a variety of action plan steps, including:

Leaving your current job

It can be tempting to quit in a dramatic fashion if you are unfulfilled or unhappy at work, but it’s always wise to be professional. After all, you may need a reference for your new career! When the time comes, request a meeting with your boss and let them know your intentions. Give them a formal resignation letter and adequate notice. Finish any existing projects, and document your workflows and job duties for a smooth transition. It’s not only the “right” thing to do; it ensures you maintain your professionalism and leave on good terms.

Undertaking more study

Career changes often mean additional study, particularly if you are looking to enhance your career prospects. This can include learning new skills or obtaining a certification, license or other educational qualifications. Volunteering or obtaining an internship is also a great way of gaining experience in a field that perhaps you’ve not worked in before, before taking the plunge!

Updating your resume

Make your resume as concise, accurate, relevant, and readable as possible, as it is generally the first impression a potential employer or recruiter has of you and your achievements! Here are our top tips for How to Write a Good Resume.

Answering questions

Finally, consider how to position your career change to others including recruiters and potential employers. Don’t wait until you are in an interview to consider how to explain the reason for your career transitioning. Because you will be asked this weighted question, it’s best to be prepared.

Prepare a positive, strong, confident, and future-oriented response. And never lose sight of the fact that you are a multi-faceted person capable of accomplishing many things, and your skills and experience apply to more than one job and possibly more than one career. The more clearly you can articulate your value and connect the dots between your past experience and new opportunities, the more possibilities that will be available to you!

Could You Be an Adult Educator?

Learning is essential to our existence. And just like food nourishes our bodies, continuous learning nourishes our minds. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever”.

And despite the studies citing that after the age of twelve we lose some of the capacity to absorb new information, all of us have neuroplasticity. This is the brain’s ability to rewire itself in response to new challenges. This fact alone is motivation enough for you to work in the area of adult education, and a great first step is to undertake our Facilitate Adult Learning & Development course!

Whether it’s in literacy, language or numeracy, this course will teach you how to guide, advise, support and respond to the needs of those keen to step into the wonderful world of adult learning courses. Need more inspiration to get started? Let’s look at some theories around adult learning, the types of adult learners, and what makes adult learners different from younger generations.

Adult Learning Theories

There is an abundance of theories surrounding adult learning, and many are based on “andragogy”. Andragogy is the “art and science of helping adults learn”. The first recorded use of the word was in the 1830s, however, the disciplined pursuit began in the 1960s.

Within formal education including adult learning courses, the word is most often used in reference to self-directed learning. This takes into account an individual’s desire to know:

The reasons for learning something.
Broad experiences and knowledge bases.
Need for high levels of autonomy in their learning.
Inclination toward immediately relevant and useful subjects.
Preference for informal, problem-centred over formal, content-focused engagements.
Tendencies to be more internally than externally motivated.

Alexander Kapp and Eugen Rosenstock-Huessy developed theories around adult education that were later popularised by Malcolm Knowles, a theorist in adult education.

For Knowles, adult learning was premised on these principal metaphors:

Knowledge is … what one has learned.
Knowing is … using what one has learned.
A learner is … an adult (individual).
Learning is … experiencing and integrating.
Teaching is … facilitating.

How Adults Learn

As a result of undertaking our Facilitate Adult Learning & Development course to encourage individuals to undertake adult learning courses, you may be interested in some of the fundamental theories around how people learn. Three major theories are:

#1 – Behaviourism

Behaviourism stems from the work of B.F. Skinner and assumes the learner begins as a “clean slate”, passively receives information, and adopts behaviours through negative or positive reinforcement. Learners focus on and remember key points, and learning is a response to particular stimuli. Instruction is repetitive and reinforced. The focus of this theory is that all behaviours are acquired through conditioning.

#2 – Cognitivism

Cognitivism rejects the idea that all behaviour is merely a response to external stimuli. Instead, learners actively process information by linking old and new information together in a cumulative and meaningful way. The theory assumes that learning occurs as a result of mental or cognitive processes. Mental processes include thinking, knowing, remembering, observing, problem-solving, categorising and making generalisations. This theory focuses on the human mind and how people think and understand.

#3 – Constructivism

With constructivism, learning is a process of building one’s own subjective reality, and learning is an active, constructive process. Knowledge is developed through the process of contextualisation, and learners bring their own experiences, interpretation and cultural factors to a learning experience.

Types of Adult Learners

Those who undertake adult learning courses can be typically described in five groups:

#1 – Lifelong learners. Adults who have had positive experiences of learning and want to continually expand their knowledge, skills and interests.

#2 – Reluctant learners. Adults who have had negative learning experiences and need a lot of encouragement to give learning another go if it is in a formal environment.

#3 – Breaking barriers learners. Adults who want to learn more but have barriers to participating in adult learning such as isolation, financial concerns or lack of family support.

#4 – Community builders. Adults who want to learn with others in order to participate in their community and expand the quality of their relationships.

#5 – Foundation learners. Adults who missed out on the schooling they need and want to be able to read, speak, write and listen more effectively and improve their basic maths skills. It also includes adults whose first language is not English who want to improve their English reading, writing, listening and speaking.

What Makes Adult Learners Different?

For Knowles, adult learning was premised on the following characteristics:

The need to know

Adults want to know why they need to learn something and understand its value. They may ask, “Why is this important?” or “Why do I need to know this?” They also want their learning experiences to:

be relevant
meet their needs
help them achieve their goals.

Learner’s self-concept

Adult learners want to be seen as capable learners and should be offered choices and be encouraged to set their own learning goals. Adult learners:

are independent
are self-motivated and self-directed
can make their own decisions
like to find their own way
want to manage their own learning.

The role of the learner’s experience

Adult learners bring the diversity and richness of their lives with them. Hence, they should be given the opportunity to use their existing experience and knowledge, which they can apply to new learning experiences. They typically:

may have ingrained ideas about things
have diverse experiences and knowledge
apply their life experience and knowledge to new learning
use their reflecting, problem-solving and reasoning skills.

Readiness to learn

Adults are ready to learn when they identify something they want to know, become proficient at, or experience something that connects with their life situation. They typically:

are goal focused
want timely learning
seek meaningful learning experiences
need clear learning goals.

Orientation to learning

Adult learners want to be engaged in problem-centred or life-centred learning experiences. They typically:

are practical – their learning should apply to their job, lives, etc.
want to be involved in planning their learning
focus on the aspects that are most useful to them.

Motivation

Adults are responsive to external motivators such as an increased salary or a better job, however, the best motivators are internal. For example,

increased job satisfaction
heightened self-esteem
better quality of life
personal growth and development.

How to Network (Clue, Make Friends!)

According to the Oxford dictionary, networking is “the action or process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts”. It doesn’t always have to be business-oriented — hence, the words “social contacts” in this definition.

According to LinkedIn, it can be as simple as “making new friends”. It can be a way of getting better acquainted with others outside of seeking success or professional gain. Along the way, it can also give you insights into yourself and your future life and career goals. Here are some tips on how to network successfully.

The Life Skills That Matter website cites that meeting new people is a necessity if you want to create a lifestyle that revolves around more meaningful work on your own terms. Interacting with like-minded people can not only help you make changes in your life but can also dramatically improve your chances of success. It cites three primary “mindsets” — the established set of attitudes someone holds — in terms of building connections.

The Networking Mindset

In terms of how to network, the goal here is essentially to view other people as “transactions”. This means you want something from them — a sale, a job, money or a favour. So, often it means the connection is self-interested and not genuine. Many find networking uncomfortable as they feel like they:

Are always asking for something.
Don’t know what they want, so don’t know who they really want to connect with.
Are afraid of rejection.
Believe networking is all about meeting as many people as possible, so feel guilty about meeting an imaginary quota.

The Friend Mindset

The goal of making friends is essentially about feeling a “connection” with someone and sharing mutual interests. And the best part is that you can be yourself! It’s also about “feeling” a connection rather than “making” one. And they are very different. When you meet someone, you aren’t necessarily looking for an agenda. The foundation of friendship is trust, not a transaction. When you meet someone you could consider a friend, you aren’t guiding the conversation towards a sale or hunting down a new contact. You are simply enjoying the connection.

The Community Mindset

The goal of building a community is to “ feel both connected and collaborative with a group of like-minded people. You support each other to help each other succeed”. This is about building a professional community based on mutually beneficial relationships so you can help each other grow over the long term.

10 Ways to Network (But Not in the Most Obvious Sense)

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Tap into your existing network

Before searching outside your current circle of contacts, start closer to home. Let everyone know you are interested in expanding your network. Several people in your network likely know someone who knows someone who knows someone that would be a good introduction for you. Ever heard of six degrees of separation?

Don’t cling to old contacts

On the flip side, another essential part of how to network is letting go of old contacts, particularly if they aren’t giving you the type of friendship you are looking for. Finding new contacts is an investment and a slow and steady process, but it will have enormous benefits.

Be yourself

As Albert Einstein once said, “In a world where you can be anything, be yourself”. People tend to give off a trustworthy and positive energy when talking about things they are interested in or passionate about. And authenticity is vital in these situations.

Be interested and not just interesting

This theory revolves around making a concerted effort to get to know the other person. You can achieve this by being fully present in the conversation and listening as much as you speak. Knowing how to network in this sense is understanding that it’s a two-way street and successful networking occurs when both parties benefit. It’s also about asking questions. Asking more questions can build emotional intelligence and lead to better soft skills, which are key to building interpersonal relationships, communicating better and connecting with others.

Focus on feeling connected

The quality of your relationships trumps quantity in terms of “making connections”. Those at the core of your relationships will serve as your advocates and vastly amplify your message by not just talking about you but your community and beyond.

Find a common interest

According to the psychologist, best-selling author and the “Godfather of influence” Robert Cialdini, the best way of making personal connections is to figure out what you have in common with them — and it doesn’t have to be work-related! It could be as simple as being dog lovers, sharing the same sports team or enjoying the same lifestyle or health pursuits. Connections are created through shared experiences, so can also build trust over the long term.

Give to receive

Another tip for how to network and potentially make new friends is to show your individuality and stand out from the crowd. Being memorable can also involve offering your help and support (kindness is king!) and then demonstrating your interest in doing so, not just talking about it.

Actively engage

For those of us who are a little more introverted, place yourself in the “path of conversation”. This can be daunting, but it is about putting yourself in positions where you will actively have to talk to people. It can include seeking out groups or associations you are interested in, volunteering for organisations aligned with your goals, and/or engaging with social media platforms with like-minded people. LinkedIn is a particularly powerful tool (being one of the world’s largest professional networks). A good tip is to search for possible contacts and then send them a personalised message with an introduction and a reason for reaching out.

Take it slow

Forming connections takes time and they aren’t typically created overnight. In fact, experts say it takes from 40 to 60 hours spent together in the first few weeks after meeting people to form a casual friendship. The transition from a casual friend to a solid friend takes even more — between 80 and 100 hours!

Think long-term

Many of us have a friend or colleague who we haven’t seen for months. But when we do connect, it’s as if we’d made contact yesterday. Sound familiar? Strong relationships can last forever, and networking can be the start of such relationships. Creating connections based on shared goals and interests can also boost positivity and productivity. Plus, you’ll enhance your personal and professional life, as everyone wants to surround themselves with people they like. Why not make that you?

5 Steps to Making the Right Career Choice

Whether you’re a school leaver, after a career change or returning to the workforce, everyone negotiates a career choice in their own unique way. Effective career decisions can help you to adapt to change, and take control of your career and opportunities that may arise. However, the process can be daunting as other factors may be involved, including how to manage yourself and/or your family, your lifestyle, your personal interests and your financial future.

There are a range of decision-making strategies and models that can help, however, one industry-recommended model is based on the CASVE Cycle, which was initially devised in 2003 by James P. Sampson and his colleagues from Florida State University. It focuses on action-oriented steps broken down into five stages — Communication, Analysis, Synthesis, Valuing and Execution. It has been recommended as a great career decision-making model, and here we look at the process behind the theory in terms of five steps that can help you make the right career choice.

#1 – Knowing when you need to make a choice

The first step on a career journey is knowing you need to make a career choice, and a good indicator is if there is a gap between your current situation and where you’d like to be.

If you are a school leaver, there are lots of exciting opportunities ahead, but it can also be difficult choosing what to do next. The Australian Government’s School Leavers Information Kit is full of lots of insightful information so you can make your next move. You may choose to jump straight into the world of work and start building your career or gain qualifications or pursue some further study.

If you are already employed, there are a range of cues that can alert you to realising it’s time for a career change. According to Seek they include if you:

Dread going to work
Envy other people’s success
Have stopped “thinking big”
Are never challenged
Have no work-life balance
Don’t feel appreciated or listened to

#2 – Understanding yourself and your options

The second step to making a career choice involves being clear about your abilities, skills and your career interests. This can include:

Spending some time thinking about your personal situation, what you value and what you hope to achieve from your career.
Creating a “mind map”of things you do and don’t enjoy doing, which can help you rule out any unsuitable career directions.
Thinking carefully about your short and long-term goals (and making sure they’re MA.R.T). Focus on the things you’d like to do more of and ask yourself whether you will want to keep doing these things in one, two and five years.
Understanding what you are best at (and not so good at) both personally and professionally.
Considering the way you like to work. Do you prefer to work autonomously or within a team? Where and how would you like to work? For example, is part-time work or a job in the “gig economy” an option?
Knowing what type of industry and company you’d like work for, including what aspects about both will be most important to you.
Understanding your personality type. The popular Myers-Briggs Type Indicator can help you identify your strengths and attributes.
Using labour market information which will help you choose a career with good potential for future job earnings and security.

Tools available to assist decision-making

Regardless of whether you are a school leaver, a job-changer or returning to the workforce after a period of time, the Australian Government Department of Education, Skills and Employment also has a range of valuable tools that can help you understand and refine some of these decisions. They include:

Your Career website — can help you explore and make decisions about your career options. You can research more than 1000 different types of jobs, take a Career Quiz or Skills Match quiz, learn about the skills needed in different jobs, and understand what jobs are in your area. A full list of their resources is available here.
Job Outlook website — allows you to explore your job options, match your work style and interests to potential jobs, and learn about job prospects, tasks and pay.
Labour Market Insights website — will give you insights from the National Skills Commission to help you better understand your local labour market, future workforce changes, and current and emerging skills needs.
National Careers Institute — works to ensure Australians have access to high quality career information and support regardless of their stage of life or age.
My Future website — Helps secondary students explore career pathways, including providing tools that can help with career decision making.

#3 – Expanding and narrowing your options

This step in making a career choice is about expanding and then narrowing your list of options.

Researching your possible options including on careers pages, websites and industry/educational blogs.
Finding descriptions for current jobs that are available in your area of interest and cross matching any personal requirements with your own skillset.
Considering following companies that align with your values and interests on social media and/or LinkedIn.
Engaging with a careers counsellor to fine-tune and/or clarify your options further. They will be able to explain the benefits and drawbacks as you consider your career change, and help you research any options you might not have previously considered.

#4 – Choosing an option

Once you’ve solidified your career choice, whether it be a study subject, job or career, it’s time to fine-tune your options before you execute your intentions. “Implementation intention” is a valuable strategy that can help you follow through with the goals you set yourself. Introduced by psychologist Peter Gollwitzer, it is essentially an “if-then” plan that works on structuring goals around statements like, “If X happens, I will do Y in order to achieve Z”. One of its key proposals is that you will cover more contingencies and be better prepared for whatever comes your way.

Whether you are contemplating your future career for the first time or a change to your current role or industry, success involves risk. But fear of both failure and success can be debilitating. Some of the most common career fears are, fear of:

Failure
Success
What others think
Taking on too much
The unknown

See page 20 of our The Ultimate ‘A to Z’ Career Change Guide for more insightful detail on how to overcome career fear.

#5 – Implementing your career choice

The fifth step is all about putting your career choice into action. This involves creating a flexible plan and actioning steps to put into effect your preferred option/s. Steps to take that can help you apply for a job include:

Researching jobs online. Job vacancies are largely advertised online — in many cases via an internal or external recruiter. You can find out more about job search websites in Australia here. You can also access Workforce Australia, which is the new employment service delivered by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE), which will replace jobactive in July 2022. It has stated that it will, “help Australians find and keep a job, change jobs or create their own job”.
Researching organisations that are hiring directly. Before applying for a job, ensure you have conducted research on the company. Navigate to their “about” page for valuable insights. Running the company’s name through a search engine can also give you information about current news and employee or client reviews. Networking with people who are employed with these organisations (LinkedIn is a valuable tool), can also help you gain an overall feel for the company culture, the particular skills they value, and an overview of the staff they employ.
Tailor your CV for submission. This is probably the most crucial document when applying for jobs as it outlines your key strengths and experience. Here are some tips from Seek on writing your resume. Also consider whether you need to include a cover letter — prospective employers will typically inform you if they need one when you apply.
Once you’ve applied, follow-up if you can. If you applied via a recruiter, consider contacting them via an email regarding the status of your application …. But give them ample time to review it first!
Make your career choice, but don’t forget to keep a close eye on future career progression and training opportunities. The Future of Work is ever-evolving so you who knows what’s around the corner!

7 Signs You Need Professional Development

Are you thinking about investing in a professional development course? It’s always a positive to invest in your career, but there are signs it’s crucial. If you have concerns about redundancy, challenging projects at work or lack the confidence to do your role well, these are just some reasons to invest in professional development.

What is Professional Development?

Professional development is education or mentoring that leads to learning, which gains or maintains your professional credentials. Professional development can include academic degrees, formal coursework, online courses, conferences and informal learning opportunities in the workplace.

Redundancy is Likely in Your Industry/Company

Redundancy and job insecurity are real, but it will take the sting (or at least the surprise) out of it if you’re prepared. If you’re in an industry renowned for redundancy, it’s even more important to be realistic about your job security.

Maintaining and gaining new skills through professional development is crucial to minimise your risk of redundancy, as you may be able to move into another role, but you’ll also be more likely to find a new job quickly.

Roles (You Want) Have Education Requirements You Don’t Meet

Are there positions in your company that interest you, but you don’t have all the skills you need to apply? If so, a professional development course – even a short online course – will help you get your foot in the door. You can learn many roles while on the job, but having a foundation of knowledge will give you a competitive advantage for a promotion or career change.

You Don’t Feel Confident

If you have difficulty at work, face a challenging project, or feel overwhelmed in a role, professional development can help you.

Whether you’re experiencing difficulty with communication, leadership, time management or even public speaking, there’s a course to help you overcome any workplace challenge.

It’s Been a Long Time Since You’ve Studied

If it’s been years since you’ve learned something new, a professional development course will help you gain the latest skills in leadership, marketing, sales, communication – and many other industries! It’s a great way to feel competent and confident in your current role.

If you work in dynamic industries like digital and design, staying up to date on new developments is even more crucial. Regardless, gaining knowledge and acquiring new skills is also a confidence-booster. And let’s face it, most of us could use that in the workplace!

Your Industry is Changing Rapidly

In many industries, change is the only constant. You must make sure you’re prepared. A professional development course in change management will be vital if you lead change. If you know what changes are on the horizon, boosting your skillset (and that of co-workers) via professional development will make the change less threatening and stressful.

You’re Stuck in a Career Rut

Are you stuck in a career rut? If so, it’s never too late to change careers. Depending on the job you choose, you might need to upskill. Whether taking an online professional development course or enrolling in tertiary education, a commitment to study and a positive attitude will take you far.

You Want to Start a Business

It’s understandable to feel underqualified when you start a business. It’s a massive undertaking that requires you to wear many hats! There are so many factors that will determine whether your business will succeed. A few of the most important skills for running your own business include financial literacy, marketing and communications, time management and leadership.

Start with the most important skills you want to gain and work backwards when considering professional development courses. Because while education is an investment in your future, you need to be realistic about your budget. It doesn’t have to be a considerable expense, as many short online courses may be adequate to upskill, change careers or even start a business! Many factors will influence your decision, from your financial situation to essential requirements set by industry bodies. The bottom line – do your research, and do it well!

The Great Resignation – What You Need to Know!

The war for employee talent is real! Known by various phrases like the “Great Resignation”, the “Great Transition”, and the “Great Realignment”, the current sentiment among employees is that it is time for change. Workers are leaving their jobs and making lifestyle and career changes, and others are making “tree” or “sea” changes and redesigning their lives.

According to research from Microsoft, 40 per cent of the post-pandemic global workforce have resigned or are considering resigning. Some proof of this can be seen in job advertisements. In October last year, SEEK recorded the highest number of job ads in 23 years. That was 63 per cent higher than the previous year and 44 per cent higher than pre-pandemic levels in October 2019.

Why is this happening?

In part, the labour supply squeeze comes from limited worker mobility due to border closures and the halted immigration of skilled and technical workers from overseas into the country. It may also be due to increased government support during the pandemic or because people have been able to save more while staying home during lockdowns. Many skilled workers can now name their price as the employment market heats up.

Lockdowns have also allowed people to examine their priorities, values and lifestyle choices. People have had the chance to think about the emphasis on work and what’s important to them and tap into an underlying desire to have a better lifestyle.

With the rise of hybrid and remote work models, the flexibility of working from home has also created resistance to pre-COVID-19 work arrangements. For some, paying exorbitant parking fees and travelling to and from work is not an attractive option when there are alternatives available.

Hence, local employee resistance and overseas employee shortages are forecast to be one of the highest business risks across all industries in 2022.

What does this mean for employers?

Businesses, irrespective of size, are now having to battle for available resources in the competitive employee landscape. For employers, it is time to rethink their decisions around the what, why, where and when of work to ensure continuous improvement and business growth.

While salary does play a huge role in attracting and retaining talent, it’s not the only factor. In the current business climate, where budgets may be an issue, organisations need to look at other tactics and strategies. So whether you are a leader, recruitment specialist or own your own business, here are some ways you can attract and hire new talent and some staff retention strategies that will help you retain that talent.

Flexible working policies

In many cases, COVID-19 has dramatically changed the way we work. One of the most significant changes has been the adaption of flexible working policies, particularly given the need for employees to work from home. Many have embraced the change and prefer it! Regarding staff retention strategies, if your business has the capability and capacity to offer this arrangement for staff moving forward, it is worth considering.

To set your employees and your business up for success, take the time to define work processes and agree on your staff’sKey Performance Indicators (KPIs). As with autonomy, there should also be accountability. Whether it’s a 100 per cent work-from-home scenario or a combination of some days in the office and some out, with the right framework, it can work. Plus, if your employees are happy and fulfilled, it will often equate to enhanced productivity.

Mental health support

Another critical staff retention strategy is to have sufficient mental health support in place. This is crucial as, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 15 per cent of Australians experienced high or very high levels of psychological distress over the period 2020 to 2021. Not surprisingly, there has also been evidence of heightened psychological stress during the pandemic.

As a manager or business owner, you are responsible for assisting workers with mental illness by providing changes that will support their duties more effectively in the workplace. These are known as “reasonable adjustments”. A few ways you can instigate these include:

Implementing effective communication strategies and regularly checking in on employees to find out how they are going at work and in general.
Identifying and implementing workplace adjustments and support to meet individual workers’
Implementing effective, long-term, broader organisational strategies to create a flexible and inclusive workplace.
Offering flexible working options, including variable start and finish times, working from home, working part-time and changing or sharing responsibilities or tasks.
Incorporating official mental health days into your organisation’s leave structure to support them wherever possible.

Continuous learning

To equip employees with the necessary skills for the future of work, developing a culture of continuous learning is essential. However, aligning training to organisational and staff retention strategies requires prioritisation and investment in diverse learning opportunities and preferences. Things to consider include developing micro-learning tools and encouraging social and informal learning.

Technology can also be leveraged to facilitate agile and innovative learning and is critical for remote workers. Digital tools like virtual reality are particularly suited to harder-to-teach skills and create powerful learning experiences. And shifting the focus on development from individuals to team-based training can help equip them for continued success and better performance.

Rewards and memberships

Staff retention strategies can also revolve around employee benefits, rewards and recognition programs that you put in place. They can include:

Group insurance — Personal insurance plans that can include Salary Continuance cover.
Health insurance — Fully paid or subsidised plans.
Company car — This can also include fuel and car allowances.
Childcare subsidies — In childcare placements or daycare facilities.
Health and fitness — Providing “gym on-site facilities” or access to a gym with lower corporate rates.
Catering — For example, an on-site cafe, fresh fruit delivery services, a juice and smoothie bar, or menu selections from a local supplier.
“Break out” activities could include on-site massages and facilities for activities like table tennis or pool.
Vaccinations — Free or subsidised flu and COVID-19 shots.
On-site bathrooms — To encourage staff to walk, run or ride to work.
Technology — Free or discounted mobile phones, laptops or tablets.
Employee recognition programs — Offering discounted goods and services including petrol, travel, leisure activities, shopping or movie tickets.

How to Write a Winning ‘Career Change’ Cover Letter

If your career path is no longer fulfilling, embarking on a completely new career is important; however, it can be overwhelming.

You may have consulted with a career advisor who gave excellent career planning advice, you probably considered many career choices and you may have reskilled with an online education while you continued to work.

But even with a solid online education, career advice and a mountain of enthusiasm, applying for a job in a new field is hard! The fact remains: you’ll have limited work experience on your resume. So how do you get noticed? You write a winning career change cover letter: that’s how! Here’s how you do it.

Natalie Scanlon, Founder of Written Communications, says by following these five steps your cover letter won’t be left at the bottom of the pile.

Transferable Skills

This is at the top for a reason. When you are changing careers, there will be many skills that you can transfer to a new position. Review the ‘Job Tasks and Responsibilities’ of each individual role and allow this to dictate what you should or shouldn’t include in your cover letter. For example; ‘organising travel and accommodation arrangements’ could indicate that you need to be able to manage tasks for others. This is something you should explain in your cover letter and is skill that is transferable across industries.

Edit Carefully

Always remember to edit your cover letter for every job you apply for. This is a tedious task, but every role is different, and this requires some care and attention.

Keep it Short

Don’t make your cover letter more than one-page long. In this day and age, there are hundreds of applicants for one role. The longer the cover letter, the less likely the employer is to read it!

Write a Letter

Your cover letter and your resume are two ‘different’ documents. Use the cover letter as a tool to explain why you are the best candidate for the role; in comparison, use your resume to show your experience and education where applicable.

Pay Attention to Details

ALWAYS re-read your cover letter. If you have ‘pays attention to details’, or ‘Microsoft Office Expert’ listed as one of your ‘skills’ on your resume, you need to show that you know how to spell and write accordingly. Rather than telling your potential employer what you do, show them! It works wonders.

7 Ways to Land That Entry-Level Job

You’ll need a competitive edge to start your career according to a new report by Anglicare. Across Australia, there are now an average of 4.8 jobseekers for every entry-level job advertised (ABC News report). So how can graduates and new jobseekers give themselves the best chance of success?

Australian Online Courses spoke to Darleen Barton, bestselling author and performance coach at DIPAC & Associates, for advice on how entry-level jobseekers can increase their chances of being hired.

Build a C.V

“Demonstrate your skills, your character and your personal value system,” says Barton. As an entry-level job-seeker you should include any humanitarian interests, including voluntary positions that you have held.

It’s also important to ensure your C.V clearly demonstrates your accomplishments and the results achieved, adds Barton. “Employers are looking for ‘action-oriented’ people who can learn fast and deliver results.”

Of course, she adds, make sure your C.V is free of spelling and grammatical errors.

Deliver Your C.V and Dress to Impress

If you can deliver your CV in person take the opportunity, says Barton. “First impressions count. You will be judged in the first thirty seconds of your arrival. You might as well make it positive. Make sure you’re neat, tidy and professional.”

Research the Job Market

Keep in mind that recruitment companies work with thousands of candidates, says Barton. As a new job-seeker you need to conduct your own research. Try to find out as much as possible about the organisations you are looking to work.

Create a Social Media Presence

Barton says a social media presence is important for jobseekers, but it should reflect a professional image. “Your online footprint should be clean, issue free and professional. Establish accounts on key sites such as LinkedIn and sanitise or even remove personal accounts with sites such as Facebook that can be viewed by prospective employers.”

“Go one step further and create a mini website for yourself. There are many web-building services such as WIX, which enable you to build great websites fast and for free. Get your profile up and out in the market and ensure your site is looks professional.”

Be Persistent and Reliable

Being persistent is paramount to your success, says Barton. “If you want to get your foot in the door don’t send an email requesting an appointment. Pick up the phone and ask for an appointment to see the human resource manager, relevant manager, or person hiring. Follow up phone calls are important to ensure your enthusiasm is noticed.”

You should also demonstrate that you are reliable. “Employers are sick of no-shows and unreliable people.” They want to be impressed, which leads to the next important step – the interview.

”6. Nail Your Interview

“Arrive to your interview early and bring hard copies of your C.V and references. If necessary, bring materials to support your interview. Dress well, be considerate, answer questions clearly, use positive body language, avoid ums and ahs and overuse of the word like. Ask relevant questions and focus on the role – not how much money you will get,” advises Barton.

Learn the STAR Principal

The STAR principal is a behavioural interview technique based on discovering a candidate’s past behaviour in a specific employment-related situation.

It stands for Situation, Task, Action and Result. You should prepare a few examples of situations that arose, the task you carried out, the action you took, and the results achieved.

As an entry level job-seeker, you can use situations from your internships, short courses, school projects, activities, team sports, community involvement, hobbies and any work experience.

Grow in Confidence

“Remember with every no, your confidence must grow,” says Barton. You should learn to pick yourself up and try again despite setbacks.

She says it’s also important to monitor self-talk, as confidence comes from within. “You have just completed your study and you are heading out to get your first job – so take it easy on yourself!”

A technique she recommends is to look yourself in the mirror every day and use the mantra ‘I can do this.’ “We all started somewhere!”

Eliminate Career Fear: 10 Reasons to Seek Counselling.

When you think of career counselling do fresh-faced school leavers come to mind? If so it’s a mistake. While this is certainly an important stage to seek guidance, it’s not the only time you should seek advice with career direction, according to Principal Consultant, Simon Bennett, of Glide Outplacement and Career Coaching.

Bennet says there are many reasons people seek career counselling throughout their lifetime but the following scenarios make it a must.

You’ve just finished studying.

Maybe you’ve realised you’ve studied the wrong degree, or perhaps you’re overwhelmed by opportunities and feel unable to make progress with any of them? A career coach can help you to consider all your options and make a sustainable, long- term choice.

You’ve started working in a field, but realise you’ve made the wrong choice.

So, you made a bad career choice. Rather than hitting the eject button straight away, it can be helpful to talk to an independent expert to discover whether if it’s worthwhile sticking with the job until you’ve learnt enough for it to be useful on your resume.

You no longer feel motivated and inspired by your work, and wonder where the passion’s gone.

If the enjoyment has gone from your working day, a career coach can work with you to develop a plan to move on and find a new role to reignite your passion. They can also advise you on how to get professional satisfaction from doing something that is frankly a bit dull.

You’re looking for a fresh start and want to change careers entirely.

Few of us pick the right job on our first try. But if you are thinking about changing careers, you probably want to find the right career this time. If you aren’t sure where to start, career coaching will show you how to research, evaluate and apply for potential jobs before you make any life-changing decisions.

You missed out on a promotion.

Being overlooked for a more senior position doesn’t always mean you should quit. When there seems to be a lack of career advancement opportunities in your current role, a career expert can coach you on ways to ask your line manager or HR department about how you can take on more responsibilities and advance professionally.

You didn’t get the pay rise you felt you deserved.

The idea of negotiating a higher salary makes many people feel uncomfortable: they don’t want to seem rude or greedy asking for more money, especially if an initial request has been rejected. Working with a career coach will equip you with the skills to ask for and negotiate a pay rise that matches your expectations.

You need advice for dealing with a difficult manager, an unproductive team or an unpleasant work environment.

The workplace can sometimes be miserable and unpleasant. When quitting isn’t an option, professional career management advice can show you how to turn a bad situation into a good learning experience and make your job more tolerable.

You want to learn skills to help you in a new management role.

The professional and/or technical skills that have fuelled your success to date are likely to be different to those you need as a manager. With career coaching, you’ll discover what skills and knowledge you need to be a successful manager who achieves high performance from team members.

You’re nearing retirement and don’t want to stop working, but your current role isn’t suitable for your retirement plans.

Many retirees want to remain in the workforce, although not always in the same role. With post-retirement career planning, you can decide whether you want to look for a role related to your previous career, investigate new career paths or start your own business.

You want to return to the workplace after a few years break to raise your family and you want a role that provides you with a good work/life balance.

Career coaching can provide you with expert help in developing and implementing a return-to-work strategy, especially if you want to do something different to what you did before you left the workforce. It can help you think about your existing skills, including those you’ve developed since becoming a parent, and how to transfer them to other employment options.

Australian Online Courses “Ask a Career Coach”

Career counselling helps you plan and effectively deal with career challenges. At all ages and all stages of your professional life there is opportunity to explore suitable career options. So, if you’re unhappy in your current role or are confused by career choices, you might benefit from our “Ask a Career Coach” service.

The “Ask a Career Coach” is a free service offered by Australian Online Courses where you can ask any questions related to work and careers. All questions are reviewed and answered by a career coach. Selected questions and answers will be published on the Australian Online Courses site (we respect your privacy, real names and email address will not be published).

Why Study Australian Online Courses?

If you’re ready to discover a new career direction explore the hundreds of professional development courses on offer with Australian Online Courses.

Your career matters to us at Australian Online Courses. That’s why flexible study timeframes, affordable prices and unmatched customer support from our administration team and tutors are at the heart of what we do.

Our comprehensive array of courses, developed in consultation with industry experts, will give you the skills and knowledge to pursue new roles and achieve your career goals.

A state-of-the-art eLearning platform means you can study anywhere, anytime. So, sign up with Australian Online Courses today and get the skills and confidence to discover a career that inspires you.

How to Face the Fear of Mid-Life Career Change

The age of retirement is steadily creeping towards 70, so at 40 there are potentially 30 working years ahead of you. This doesn’t make it less daunting for those changing careers later in life, but it does put it in perspective.

According to Career Coach Elise Stevens of Age-Defying Careers adequate preparation is the key to successfully changing careers mid-life. She says the pay-off is a renewed sense of purpose and enhanced job satisfaction.

Stevens was in her 50s when she established her own online coaching business to help women in their 40s and 50s renew their career confidence.

She speaks out about ageism in the workplace and believes mid-life job seekers face many challenges. “Sometimes circumstances force people to look elsewhere for a new job or career. But for those who still have a job, even one that leaves them unhappy and unfulfilled, it can be hard to make the decision to leave,” says Stevens.

The fear of leaving their professional comfort zone, not knowing what’s expected or changing a familiar routine can be daunting, she says. There’s also fear of age discrimination and the valid concern of managing finances, according to Stevens.

Her Advice:

Identify Your Goals

Spend some time working out what you hope to achieve from your new career.

Are you looking for a job that pays more? Provides you with a sense of purpose? Has flexible working conditions? A workplace that shares your personal values? Each of these goals is equally valid.

Once you’ve identified what it is you’d like to achieve by changing careers, you can then start thinking about what professions or industries fit your criteria.

Ask for Help

Working out what options will suit you best can seem overwhelming, especially if you are already tired and stressed in your current job. If this is the case, Stevens suggests asking for help. For example, you can:

Ask friends and family for their opinion
Try an online personality assessment, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. This assessment tool is also used by career professionals, and can help you identify your attributes and strengths.
Engage a careers coach or vocational guidance counsellor and talk with industry associations about what you are planning to do.

Make a Plan

Elise emphasises the importance of setting attainable goals that can be realistically achieved. In your planning, think through details such as:

How will I support my family while making the transition?
Will I have to rely on savings and if so, how much will I need?
Is there any financial support I can access?
What new skills or qualifications will I need?
What are my study or retraining options?
How much time can I realistically devote to retraining?

Having a clear plan and breaking it down into do-able steps will ease the pressure of preparing for your new career.

Take Responsibility

Change is unsettling, and even scary, says Stevens. So, it’s important to give yourself credit for each step you achieve and remind yourself of your end goal. Know that you can adapt successfully to change and try not to let self-doubt hold you back.

Own your career change plans. Decide on an action today. Do it. Repeat. You can make it happen if you just decide to start.

Finding a new career can be an opportunity that gives your life renewed purpose and direction.

Nurse Turned APP Developer at 50.

Looking for some mid-life career change inspiration? You can’t go past Julie Misson who at 50 became a software developer following a 30-year career as a nurse.

Now in her mid-50’s she has created hundreds of software applications and is an award-winning app developer with her own business Make It APPen.

Misson says her age played a part in moving her towards her goals quickly. “I realised if I wanted to start a business I’d better get my act together. I combined my knowledge of healthcare with my passion for technology and started my business creating apps to enhance patient care.”

There was a steep learning curve in changing careers as she had to learn two coding languages to set up her business. “The Internet is an excellent resource with both paid online courses and free resources. I’m also continually amazed that people are willing to share their own knowledge so freely,” says Misson.

The main barrier to career transition was time, according to Misson. She worked full-time in healthcare and looked after her grandchildren so she was time-poor. “They say it takes 10,000 hours to become an expert. I realised I needed to give something up – so I cut back my work hours, which gave me five days to concentrate on learning new skills and building my business.”

The benefits of changing careers later in life are keeping the brain active, meeting new and enthusiastic people, getting outside your comfort zone and having a purpose, says Misson.

“People often ask if my age was a hindrance or if it put up barriers to becoming a coder – as most coders are males in their 20s – but I find my years’ of experience in healthcare enables me to speak both health and tech jargon.”

“I often say I’m a nurse by trade but a nerd by nature.”

Is a Career Change in Your Future?

If a change of career is on the cards for you consider a professional development course from Australian Online Courses.

Your career matters to us at Australian Online Courses. That’s why flexible study time frames, affordable prices and unmatched customer support from our administration team and tutors are at the heart of what we do.

Our comprehensive array of courses, developed in consultation with industry employers, will give you the skills and knowledge to pursue new roles – and achieve your career dreams.

A state-of-the-art eLearning platform means you can study anywhere, anytime. So, sign up with Australian Online Courses today and get the skills and confidence to make a change at any age.

4 Setbacks to Career Change and How to Overcome Them

Today, more than ever, opportunity in the job market is more important than job security. In fact, the job-for-life of past generations is practically non-existent with Australia’s job mobility being closer to three different jobs per decade. (courtesy of McCrindle).

And while job-hopping is more common and accepted, even a natural progression in a career, what if simply changing jobs isn’t enough? Perhaps you’ve become disenchanted with your current career. It makes sense that in a working life that potentially spans 40 years you, your lifestyle, will change. So why shouldn’t your career?

There’s no question, this is a far more challenging position to be in but it’s not as difficult as you might expect with the right guidance. According to Career and Business Strategist Kelly Kozaris there are four major setbacks career-changers experience and they’re not insurmountable.

The benefits, including greater job satisfaction, enhanced mental health and wellbeing, the potential to increase your salary, gain new contacts and learn new and rewarding skills might just be worth the effort.

Confidence

“Confidence is a wonderful thing and can truly impact an individual’s career,” says Kozaris.

She says the best way to overcome a crisis of confidence is to be clear about your strengths and how your skill-set can be transferred to a new career.

When you list your current skills, you might be surprised how many can be valuable across industries.

Lack of Clarity/Direction

“People are unsure of direction when they feel ‘stuck’ …, or they don’t know ‘what’s next’ for them.”

Kozaris says often people stay the course with a career simply because they are good at it and it supports a lifestyle they’ve become accustomed to. But if they no longer find it meaningful it can lead to misery and that’s when it’s time for a change.

To obtain more clarity or direction:

Understand what you’re passionate about and combine it with what you do well.
Ensure your personal values, your lifestyle and the type of working environment that suits you is aligned with your career choice.
Spend time at a workplace or talk to people currently in the industry/role you’re interested in as your perception may not live up to the reality.

Financial

“Financial setbacks are a big issue when it comes to career change and ‘not having the money’ is one of the biggest excuses I hear.”

Kozaris says making time and planning a career transition is a big investment in yourself. However, it becomes financially rewarding in the future when your salary increases, or when a new business venture is formed.

Make it financially viable

Time to budget. Look at areas in your life where you can cut-back.
Are there other income streams available to you? Could you start a side business?

Uncertainty

“Not knowing what your future looks like … can hold a lot of people back from living the life they want or doing the work they love.”

Everyone’s personal risk factor is different, says Kozaris, and it will impact any career change decisions you make.

Thoroughly understand the change you are going to make and identify how it will impact on your life.

Kozaris says the best way to overcome each of these setbacks is through personal development to understand the blocks and obstacles facing your career change. “I recommend my clients find out what works for them including reading, writing and journaling, listening to podcasts and locking in 10 to 20 minutes a day.”

However, Kozaris warns if mental illness is a factor, speak to an industry professional prior to reaching out to a career coach for support.

If a career change is in your future why not start with a professional development course in the industry that appeals to you? At Australian Online Courses, we are passionate about helping people from all walks of life to achieve their career goals.

Time for a Change? Take Quick Career Quiz!

Considering that we spend a third of our lives at work, it’s not surprising that an unfulfilling career can lead to feelings of hopelessness, overwhelm, resentment, and even debilitating depression and anxiety. This blog aims to shed light on the signs that indicate you’re ready for a career change, a topic that could potentially transform your life, and provides a fun career quiz!

Yet, as creatures of habit, we must summon a truckload of motivation and enthusiasm to change careers. Perhaps your career path is on track, but you want to advance your skills, apply for a promotion, or move into a different department. This may be enough to renew your passion for what you do. Or maybe you’re one of many who absolutely need to head in a completely different direction right now!

Identifying with one or more of the following ‘signs’ is probably a good indication that it’s time to find a new career. Recognising you’re ready for change can be liberating, empowering you to take control of your career path.

Lack of passion

While the initial excitement of any job wears off somewhat, if you have no enthusiasm left for your career, that’s a sign it’s not a good fit for you. So, it’s time for a change if your work life is always an obligation rather than a fulfilling activity.

Feeling fatigued

Getting out of bed in the morning leaves you feeling exhausted. You muster all your strength to drag yourself into work. It’s more than Monday blues. It’s feeling tired almost every day at the thought of the workday ahead. If you experience this exhaustion, your work isn’t for you, and it’s time to change.

Your skills/interests have changed

Over time, your skills have evolved, and your interests have changed. If you find yourself drawn to new fields or have acquired skills that don’t match your current role, it is probably an indication that you’re ready to move on to something new.

Lack of direction

If no professional development or training is on the horizon, you most likely feel stuck. A lack of opportunity or advancement in your career can lead to frustration and demotivation. A career change can offer you a fresh start and exciting new opportunities for growth that are no longer possible in your current role, sparking a sense of hope and optimism.

You’re irritable

If you’re irritable with work colleagues or your bad mood infiltrates your home life, it indicates that you’re ready for a change. Finding a job that feels significant and aligns with your values will lead to greater job satisfaction, feelings of accomplishment and better mental health.

You have situation (at the workplace) depression

If your weekends can’t come quickly enough, but you’re tired and depressed at work, blame situational depression. It’s as though you’re asleep until Friday afternoon and suddenly come alive. But come Sunday night, the dread descends in anticipation of the work week ahead. It’s called situational depression, and a career change is a must to protect your mental health and relationships.

You have anxiety

A bit of stress is healthy, as it motivates you to push through challenging work tasks. But it’s time for a change if you have a mountain of negative thoughts that threaten to overwhelm you at work and feel stressed when you think about work.

Your work environment is toxic

A negative or toxic company culture significantly affects your emotional, mental and physical well-being. If efforts to improve your situation at work have failed, moving to a healthier, more positive, supportive workplace might be necessary.

Is it time for a career change? Take a quick quiz!

Quick & Easy Career Quiz

Take this quick and easy career quiz to get you thinking about your preferences and strengths. It’s a fun starting point for exploring potential career paths!

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Building or fixing things
Reading and researching
Creating art or music
Helping people with their problems

Which of these activities would you prefer?

Organising an event
Conducting experiments
Designing a website or poster
Volunteering at a local charity

Which of these subjects did you enjoy the most in school?

Technology and Engineering
Science and Mathematics
Arts and Humanities
Social Sciences

What work environment do you prefer?

Hands-on and active
Quiet and full of data
Creative and dynamic
Collaborative and community-oriented

How do you handle tasks?

I like to plan and execute in detail.
I enjoy solving complex problems.
I prefer tasks that allow for self-expression.
I thrive on tasks that help others and make a difference.

If you could start your own business, it would be

A tech or construction company
A research or consulting firm
An art studio or creative agency
A non-profit or community service organisation

Career Quiz Results:

If you got mostly A’s, you might excel in technical and practical careers such as engineering, carpentry, IT, or architecture. You could explore technical courses or apprenticeships that allow hands-on work.

If you got mostly B’s, analytical and investigative careers such as science, research, finance, or data analysis might be a great fit for you. To start your journey, consider looking into specialised courses in your area of interest.

If you got mostly C’s, you could find your path in creative and artistic careers such as the arts, design, writing, or music. Developing your creative skills through courses or self-taught practices could open many doors.

If you got mostly D’s, social and helping careers such as teaching, counselling, social work, or healthcare might be a fulfilling option for you. professional development in these areas can provide the qualifications you need to succeed.

Please note that this career quiz is a quick and fun way to consider your general preferences and potential career paths. However, it’s not an in-depth analysis that matches your skills, interests, and values. For a more thorough exploration of your options, seek guidance from a career counsellor and take advantage of professional development opportunities. You can also take the Career Change Readiness Test for a reliable indication of your readiness to change your career.

If you’re concerned about juggling study with your busy schedule, you can talk to one of our Course Counsellors for advice. We offer flexible study options, unbeatable prices, and unparalleled student support that won’t disappoint.

Our comprehensive courses are developed in consultation with industry experts, so you can be confident that you’ll acquire the skills and knowledge required to excel in your current job, pursue new roles, or achieve your career dreams. our state-of-the-art eLearning platform allows you to study wherever and whenever you want.

So, don’t delay; enrol today and gain the skills and confidence you need to make a career change.