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What is a career change? 

A career change is the process of taking on a role that differs from your current work role. There are different reasons you may be considering a new position, but any move requires an action plan and reflection.  

Professionals change careers for various reasons, including: a change in salary requirements, a desire to have a less stressful job, a need for better work-life balance, aspirations to be challenged or acquire new skills, and/or a feeling of lacking passion for a current role. 

No matter the reason you are considering a career change, it will require a strategy and intentionality. Continue below for the four types of career changers and tips for how you can prepare to make the leap.  

Four types of career changers: 

• A professional who changes companies but remains in the same industry. An example would be an Information Technology Specialist at ÌÇÐÄ´«Ã½Â who applies to an Information Technology Specialist role at UMD College Park.  
  
• A professional who wants to switch to a new industry but remain in a similar role. An example would be a Sales Associate at an automotive company switching to a Sales Associate at a technology company. 
  
• A professional who wants to switch their role within the same industry. An example would be a Customer Service Representative at a pharmaceutical company applying for a Human Resources Generalist role at the same company. 
  
• A professional who wants to switch their role and industry. An example would be a Certified Nurse’s Assistant at a major hospital switching to a Technical Support role at IBM, Inc.   

Each type of career changer experiences some level of difficulty. They each take a leap of faith but with preparation it is possible to succeed.   

How to prepare for a Career Change: 

• Have self-reflection and consider your options  
• Do your research on the company and the role  
• Gain relevant experience and skills  
• Grow your network 
• Update your resume & cover letter (tailor it for the new industry and/or role) 
• Prepare for interview questions  
• Utilize the Ìý°ù±ð²õ´Ç³Ü°ù³¦±ð²õÌý

This information and more was covered in the recent resume webinar, . If you need resume assistance, check out the career services resume tool, . If you need further guidance with your career transition, then the  are here to help.  

Isa’ Martinez is a Career Advising Specialist in the Office of Career Services and Alumni Relations at the ÌÇÐÄ´«Ã½. She has over ten years of experience in Education in enrollment services and a student support capacity.  She has a Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology from Bowie State University, where she practiced counseling for a year and discovered her passion for career counseling. Isa’ is committed to putting students first, providing career development to students and alumni and believes in the power of an education.