Why Having a Plan A is Critical When Switching Careers

Are you thinking about changing careers? If yes, then you need to know about Dawn Graham and her brand new book, Switchers.

Dawn is the Director of Career Management for the MBA Program for Executives at The Wharton School and one of the best-known career coaches in the U.S. She's also host of SiriusXM Radio's Career Talk show (we first met there!)

I had the opportunity to chat with Dawn about Switchers last week. (It's the debut episode of a brand-new industry experts series over on YouTube.)

We talked about the importance of having a Plan A when working to change careers, and why keeping your options open can work against you through a pivot. (Amen, Dawn. I've been preaching this same message for years.)

A few other important takeaways from the conversation:

It's not a fair process. (In fact, there's a full chapter called, "It's Not Fair.")
You may think you need to go back to school to change careers, but it probably shouldn't be first on the list.
You don't just need to "go network" when switching careers, you've got to enlist what she calls Ambassadors.
You need to change your mindset through this and think like a hiring manager.

Check out the entire interview over on our new YouTube channel (Be sure and subscribe to get alerts every time we post another interview or how-to video!)

And you'll find Dawn's book right HERE (and also over on Amazon.com. )

Are you considering a career Pivot?

Change Your Career, Change Your Life is an online masterclass designed to help you evaluate a potential career pivot then build and activate on a plan that will take you step-by-step from today to your successful start in that brand new role or profession.

In 20 digestible video lessons, you'll learn how to:

Evaluate your idea and narrow the definition of your ideal next job
Build a career change strategy, set tangible milestones, and find regular time for this important work
Stay organized and focused on the activities that will accelerate your process the most
Update your resume and LinkedIn profile so you make sense to your target audience
Create a cover letter that enables people to see right away why you're the perfect candidate for the jobs you want the most
Enlist the help of people you know -- and meet new people in your desired career field
Deal with those moments of fear and self-doubt that are part and parcel of this process
Interview like a pro (with specific tips on how to answer the "Why the change?" question) that will surely come up
Negotiate a solid offer, and prepare for a smooth transition
Make the absolute most of your first 90 days in your new job or career

The course also includes: sample resumes, networking letters, cover letters, and resignation letters; a Career Pivot Roadmap worksheet, and a heaping helping of encouragement from Jenny.

Take me to the course!