It’s the new year – often a time for new resolutions and fresh ambition. If you’re thinking about a career change, it’s an exciting opportunity but also a big decision.
Whether you’re seeking better work-life balance, higher earnings, or simply a new role that gives you the chance to make a difference, a career move is your chance to make a change.
Before you take your first step, here are five things to consider:
1. Why do you want a new job?
Ask yourself “why do I want a new job?”. Is it because you feel stuck in your current role, because you crave more flexibility, or want to pursue a lifelong passion and make a career change? Your motivation will help you shape a decision and avoid an impulsive move. Think about what you’ve enjoyed the most from your previous employment and help it shape what you’d like out of a new role and what you’d like to leave behind.
2. Transferable skills
Found your dream role? You may have more relevant skills and experience than you realise. Skills such as leadership, communication, problem-solving, and project management are valued across many industries. By identifying your skills and strengths, you’ll be able to see what makes you a strong candidate when you’re applying – even if you think your experience isn’t quite right.
Activity: write a list of your skills and match it against the job description for a role you want to apply for. This will highlight gaps and strengths.
3. What’s important to you?
Most organisations offer great benefits packages, one of the most important factors when choosing one role over another. For some, workplace culture is top of the list, or maybe agile working and good work-life balance is a must. For others it’s about access to discounts, car lease schemes or good family-friendly benefits that support your life outside of work. We’re all motivated by different things. It’s important to know what the biggest factors are for you before you begin your job search.
4. What kind of company do you want to work for?
Thinking about making the move from a small, independent company to a larger organisation? Every workplace operates differently, so it’s important to find one that fits your priorities. Think about whether you want to work in a smaller or larger team, what the structure looks like, and if the organisation’s values and purpose align with your own goals. Choosing the right organisation and working environment can have a big impact on your job satisfaction. Take the time to find the organisation that feels like the best fit for you.
5. Update your CV
Your application form is your first impression to your potential employer. Before you apply, make sure your CV is up-to-date and tailored to the job you’re applying for. You should highlight transferable skills, relevant achievements, and training or projects that support the role. Start by reviewing the job description and identifying key points that they are looking for. You should show confidence and enthusiasm for the role in a way that is professional and knowledgeable.
Bonus tip: Once you’ve revamped your CV for the role, make sure your LinkedIn profile matches and is up-to-date.
Ready to take the next step?
There’s a lot to consider before you put pen to paper on an application for a new job. Once you’ve made those all-important decisions, and polished your CV, explore our latest vacancies. There are a range of frontline policing opportunities, where you can get hands on in making a difference in your community. You’ll also find a whole host of police staff job vacancies, across our support functions. In a staff role, you can bring your transferable skills and experience into law enforcement, working in a role that’s meaningful and brings about positive change.
Explore our current police officer and police staff job vacancies.