How do you make a career transition in a transitioning job market?

VTM·Oct 25, 2023

Posted in:Navigating Career Transitions Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Society & Culture Tech Career Growth

Hello,

Like many, COVID-19 in 2020 forced a career change and evaluation sooner than I had planned. I went back to school and graduated with my B.A. in 2019. I could explore different career options for the first time in 18 years. I challenged myself with new opportunities and leaned toward transitioning into the tech world. With time, UX design was the best blend for my learned and inherent skill set. I love the challenge of getting to the root of the problem and then working to provide a real solution.

I started with a design boot camp that I am currently in the last phase of. Right now, the supply of ux designers outweighs the demand. I have to be patient and continue growing my skills in that area. In the meantime, I want to find a job in the tech field to get my foot in the door. I have been applying to customer specialist, product support, and other jobs in the customer service areas of tech. I have been fortunate to receive the rejection letters, so there is no guessing. However, I have not made it to any assessment or interview stages. The notes do not give detailed feedback or leave space to ask for it. They acknowledge my experience but need to work with a lower volume to provide insight.

I feel stuck at this stage, not knowing what additional experience or education I still need to include or what is on my resume that is holding me back. Any insights or suggestions from the community on how to make the tech leap over 40 is greatly appreciated.

Thank you for taking the time to get to know me and help in my journey.

manjuladharmalingam·Oct 26, 2023

Thanks for sharing the message. Here are some proven methods you can try. 1. Identifying you career path in tech wrt to trending technologies and your passion. 2. Check your skill confidence through assessment or interviews with mentors in those tech areas. 3. Joining a startup to gain experience in either probono or paid options. Feel free to connect and happy to support you!

VTM·Oct 27, 2023

Thank you for taking the time out to provide insight and support.

rachelserwetz·Oct 27, 2023

Hi @VTM! Changing careers can be daunting but it IS doable! The key to pivoting is first getting clear on what direction you want to go in - be sure you do a full process of career exploration to understand and clarify which role/industry is the best direction for you – and then optimizing factors like updating personal branding materials, pursuing reputable upskilling opportunities, networking and researching to understand the role and how people break in, and having a coach/mentor/peer/etc to see any gaps and areas for opportunity. Here are some resources – https://www.iamwoken.com/post/your-next-career-step-isnt-permanent-how-to-see-your-career-as-an-informed-experimentand https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kr9QMUOgaCk&feature=youtu.be. Additionally, on my website I have a 7-step guide focused on how to successfully make a career pivot which will have a lot of helpful tips for you - https://www.iamwoken.com/resources/job-searching#downloadables.PS, I’m Rachel. If you want to discuss further, check my profile to book a call to dive deeper into your goals/challenges.

VTM·Oct 27, 2023

Thank you for responding. Pivoting isn't easy. I'm thankful for the resources and will loook at them.