Career and Job Search Help Blog

Kadine Cooper, one of our Career Coaches in Residence, shares her tips and strategies for making a career shift.

In today’s job market, career pivots and upskilling have become essential strategies for staying competitive. Whether driven by a desire for a fresh start, industry changes or the need for new challenges, making a career transition or enhancing your skills can open new doors.

What is career pivoting?

Career pivoting involves shifting to a new role or industry that leverages your existing skills while allowing you to develop new ones. For example, you might be working in marketing but feel drawn to data analysis. A pivot could mean moving into data science. It is about using what you have learned in a new way.

Career pivots are on the rise due to:

• Technological advances - new roles are emerging while some jobs become obsolete
• Job dissatisfaction - more people seek meaning and fulfillment in their work
• Personal growth - professionals often crave new challenges and opportunities

What is upskilling?

Upskilling focuses on acquiring new skills to stay competitive in your current field or advance your career. It can involve mastering new technical skills such as software or programming, or enhancing soft skills like leadership or communication.

Upskilling is crucial for staying relevant, adapting to industry changes and positioning yourself for promotions or new opportunities. Employers value employees who show a commitment to continuous learning.

Why career pivoting and upskilling are important

The job market is evolving rapidly. Automation, artificial intelligence and digital transformation are reshaping industries, leading to the emergence of new jobs while others fade away. By pivoting to a new field or upskilling within your current one, you can future-proof your career.

Pivoting allows you to explore growing sectors with more opportunities, while upskilling ensures you do not fall behind as your industry evolves. Both strategies help you stay ahead and maintain a competitive edge.

How to start a career pivot

Pivoting your career requires careful planning. Here are some steps to help you get started:

1. Assess your skills and interests
   Identify what you enjoy and where your strengths lie. Reflect on the parts of your current role that fulfill you and explore industries that excite you.
   
   
2. Research new roles or industries
   Look into the skills needed in your desired field. Read job descriptions, follow industry trends, and understand what it takes to succeed.
   
   
3. Leverage transferable skills
   Skills such as communication, problem solving, and project management are valuable across many industries. Highlight these in your pivot.
   
   
4. Network
   Connect with professionals already in your interested field. Networking can provide insights and open doors to opportunities.
   
   
5. Be willing to start over
   A career pivot may involve starting at a lower level or accepting a pay cut to gain experience. Stay patient and persistent.

How to upskill effectively

Upskilling does not have to be overwhelming. Here is how to get started:

1. Identify the skills you need
   Determine which skills are in demand in your field. Are there new technologies or methods you need to learn?
   
   
2. Take online courses
   Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera and Udemy offer courses on virtually any skill. Choose those that align with your career goals. Access LinkedIn Learning with your Toronto Public Library card.
   
   
3. Attend workshops and conferences
   Industry events are great for learning new skills and networking with other professionals. Check out the Career and Job Search programs listings at the library. 
   
   
4. Seek feedback
   Ask your supervisor or colleagues for feedback on areas to improve. This can help you focus your upskilling efforts.
   
   
5. Practice consistently
   Upskilling requires ongoing effort. Regular practice ensures your new skills become second nature.

Whether you are pivoting to a new career or upskilling in your current one, both paths offer the chance to rejuvenate your professional life. You will gain access to new opportunities, enhance job security, and find greater satisfaction in your work. By embracing change and committing to continuous learning, you can navigate any career shift successfully and stay ahead in the ever-changing job market.

The Career Coaches in Residence program is generously supported by lead donors Azrieli Foundation and RBC Future Launch and supporting donors Linda Dagg and Kenneth Wiener and Google Canada.