Here’s a list of 11 action items that individuals can take away today to start changing their livelihoods for the better and move closer to their dream job:

1. Research and Identify the Industry/Profession: Take the time to research and identify the industry or profession that aligns with your interests and passion. Understand the current trends, opportunities, and requirements within that field.
2. Expand Your Knowledge and Skills: Invest in continuous learning and skill development related to your desired industry or profession. Take courses, attend workshops or webinars, read relevant books and articles, and stay updated with the latest advancements in the field. This will help you build a strong foundation of knowledge and enhance your credibility.
3. Network, Network, Network: Actively engage in networking activities within your chosen industry or profession. Attend conferences, seminars, and industry events to meet professionals, experts, and potential mentors. Utilize online platforms like LinkedIn to connect with like-minded individuals and join industry-specific groups or forums. Building a strong professional network can open doors to opportunities and provide valuable insights and guidance.
4. Seek Mentorship and Guidance: Find mentors who have experience and expertise in your desired field. Reach out to professionals who inspire you or have achieved success in the industry you aspire to be a part of. Seek their guidance, ask for advice, and learn from their experiences. Mentors can provide valuable insights, help you navigate the industry, and introduce you to relevant contacts.
5. Gain Practical Experience: Look for opportunities to gain practical experience in your desired industry or profession. This can include internships, volunteering, freelance projects, or part-time jobs. Practical experience not only helps you apply your knowledge but also enhances your resume and gives you a better understanding of the field. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to network with professionals and demonstrate your skills and dedication.
6. Set Clear Goals and Create a Plan: Define your career goals and create a roadmap to achieve them. Break down your goals into smaller, actionable steps with specific timelines. Having a clear plan will provide direction and help you stay focused on your desired career path.
7. Develop a Personal Brand: Build a strong personal brand that showcases your skills, expertise, and unique qualities. Create a professional online presence by optimizing your LinkedIn profile, building a personal website or portfolio, and sharing relevant content. Position yourself as an expert in your field and highlight the value you can bring to potential employers or clients.
8. Leverage Online Platforms: Make the most of online platforms and communities to expand your reach and visibility. Engage in industry-related discussions, contribute to relevant blogs or forums, and share your insights on social media. Building a strong online presence can attract opportunities, connect you with industry leaders, and demonstrate your knowledge and passion.
9. Seek Feedback and Continuous Improvement: Actively seek feedback from mentors, colleagues, and professionals in your field. Embrace constructive criticism and use it as an opportunity for growth and improvement. Continuously refine your skills, adapt to changing industry trends, and stay open to learning new things. A growth mindset and a willingness to improve will set you apart from others.
10. Take Calculated Risks: Stepping out of your comfort zone and taking calculated risks can lead to significant career opportunities. Be open to new challenges, accept projects or roles that stretch your abilities, and explore unconventional paths if they align with your goals. Embrace the possibility of failure as a learning experience and use it to fuel your motivation and resilience.
11. Optimize Your Resume: Review and optimize your resume to effectively showcase your skills, qualifications, and experience. Tailor your resume to the specific job or industry you’re targeting, emphasizing relevant achievements and responsibilities. Use action verbs and quantify your accomplishments wherever possible. Make sure your resume is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to read. Consider seeking feedback from professionals or utilizing online resources to ensure your resume is polished and stands out from the competition.

Remember, changing your livelihood is a process that requires patience, perseverance, and flexibility. By implementing these additional action items, you’ll be further equipped to pursue your dream job and create a fulfilling career.

Short term? My best advice for career shifters is to deal with this transition by taking a mental break first…then internalize, realize, and visualize. Try to identify your relevance in terms of value to a prospective employer, internalize on what your passions are and some transferable skills and accomplishments to relay to hiring managers, a solid resume and some email communication templates (or cover letter), and a lot of patience and willpower. A good rule of thumb for the job hunter seeking a new role in a new industry is to identify your transferable skills and portray those first on your LinkedIn profile and resume. Reverse engineer your career path from your ideal job’s description and see what you have and what needs up-skilling.

Think the long game. Have a vision of your dream job. Think of your job drivers. What’s important to you? Time, money, benefits, 401(k), location, product offerings, company image, culture, values, progressive versus traditional setting, remote versus on-location, passionate project opportunities, etc. Each is different for each person. What motivates you? What’s your passion? What can you do that will make you happy in 2 weeks, 3 months, a year?