Successfully Switch Careers in Five Weeks

The key to a successful career change is having a clear strategy for exiting your current career before entering the next phase of your life. Remember that change doesn't occur quickly or overnight, and you may have some trials and tribulations along the way. However, you can switch careers in as little as five weeks with a plan.

An article by The Muse on Forbes details how one person journeyed from a full-time job to full-time freelancing in just five weeks. The career change happened as the author went from a series of career opportunities before going out on his own.

Week One: Budgeting Concerns

Find out how you can buffer your finances for a few weeks as you get on your feet. Save enough money to pay rent for two or three months — you may have to give up that daily latte at your local coffee shop. Consider temporary work as you go through your career change if you need to make ends meet. Don't give up your job right away; instead, gradually transition from a desk job to becoming your own boss.

Week Two: Create a Brand

Do some legwork behind the scenes as you create an online presence that backs your brand. Set up a website that links to your social media profiles on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Include a YouTube channel and maybe even a blog that goes along with your Web presence. Your career change may become more apparent to your supervisor at work at this point, so start considering how you want to answer any questions that arise.

Week Three: Network

Start networking in your chosen field — you never know when opportunity might knock. Get to know people at companies that could benefit from your freelance talents. Any connection could lead to your first gig. This is a good time to tell your current employer at this point that you plan on leaving so that you can give a full two weeks' notice.

Week Four: Prepare Yourself

Prepare yourself for your career change by looking over any other details. Refresh your resume and post it to your website. Take online courses to hone your skills. Some courses require small fees, while others are free of charge. If necessary, update your home office gear, such as your computer and wireless Internet service, to prepare for your life as a freelancer.

Week Five: Take the Plunge

Now comes the part where you get to spend all of your time freelancing at home. While you confidently wait for your first assignments, keep your mind and skills sharp, but give yourself a break from the past month of stress. Catch up on your favorite shows and spend time with friends as you study tips and success stories from others, complete more courses and make even more connections through your existing networks. Relieving stress can help alleviate any fears and trepidation you may have about your life-altering decision.

A career change doesn't have to end badly. With the right preparation, you can transition from a full-time job with a company to a lifelong, fulfilling career as your own boss when you follow your passions and freelance.

Photo courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net