Whether you’re taking your first step into something new or rethinking what “success” means to you, hearing words of advice can offer both inspiration and clarity. Especially for those who think their next step might need to be one in a new direction, a career change can feel both exciting and uncertain. The good news? With the right approach, it can also be one of the most fulfilling transitions you’ll ever make.
At the St. James's Place Academy, we're experts at guiding people through a career change. While this might be your first career change, it certainly isn't ours. We've helped hundreds of people redefine their career paths, achieve long term stability, and dive into a profession that holds people at the heart of it.
If anyone's well placed to offer advice about navigating your career - especially changing it - it's us. And that's exactly what we've done in today's article.
7 pieces of career advice that everyone should hear:
1. Know what matters to you
Before you leap into something new, take time to reflect on what’s driving your decision. Is it greater purpose, flexibility, progression, or a desire to make a difference? Understanding what truly matters helps you choose a path that aligns with your values - and keeps you motivated when things get challenging.
2. Recognise the value you already bring
Changing careers doesn’t mean starting from scratch. Many of the skills you’ve developed - whether that's leadership, empathy, problem-solving or resilience - are highly transferable. The key is recognising how they can be applied in a new setting and learning to articulate them confidently.
3. Adopt a learners mindset
A successful transition often means stepping back to move forward. Be open to new ideas, new methods, and even new qualifications. A willingness to learn (and unlearn) not only accelerates your growth but helps you stay adaptable in a constantly evolving world.
4. Plan the practical steps
Behind every great career change is a solid plan. Map out the milestones you’ll need to reach - from training and exams to financial preparation and networking. Having a clear roadmap can make a big change feel achievable, one step at a time.
5. Build your support network
No one makes a major change alone. Seek out mentors, peers, and professionals who’ve been on similar journeys. They can offer advice, accountability, and encouragement - and remind you that every successful career changer once stood where you are now.
6. Stay consistent through the challenges
It’s easy to feel impatient when you’re learning something new or waiting for opportunities to take shape. Remember: consistency compounds. Showing up every day, even when progress feels slow, is what ultimately leads to confidence and success.
7. Stay open to redefining success
As you evolve, so will your definition of success. What once motivated you might change - and that’s perfectly natural. Be willing to revisit your goals and redefine what fulfilment looks like. The most rewarding careers are those that grow and adapt alongside you.
So, if any of these resonated with you, it might mean that change is closer than you think. Deep down, you're already experiencing and considering what it might take for you to pursue a different path - whether that's a career change or simply making a change in your day to day.
Our advice isn't always to change career - even if we're an academy that specialises in it. We know that it's not always the first, or even the right, step for someone. But if you find yourself struggling in your career right now, this advice might just open your eyes to opportunities you've never previously considered. And we're privileged to be a part of it, whatever that looks like for you.