Preparing for Career Transition in 2025: 5 Critical Exercises to Get You Started
As we move into 2025, many people are contemplating a career change or preparing for a transition. Whether you’ve already decided to make a move or are just beginning to explore the idea, the task can feel overwhelming. The good news is, with the right exercises and approach, you can make this process more manageable and even empowering.
Here are 5 critical exercises I guide my students through, which will help you lay the foundation for your career transition and feel more confident about the journey ahead. If you'd like a collaborator to support you along the way, I encourage you to book a free consultation call/video call with me at recruitking.ca.
1. Begin the Self-Assessment Exercise
Start by reflecting on your skills and strengths. Write down everything you’ve done well throughout your career, not just the skills that seem most relevant for the next step in your journey. Include both hard skills (like technical expertise or certifications) and soft skills (like leadership, communication, or problem-solving). By identifying all of your skills, you’ll have a comprehensive view of your capabilities, which can help you assess where you might want to go next.
Pro Tip: Don’t limit yourself here. If something comes to mind, write it down—even if it feels unrelated to what you’re currently considering for the next phase of your career.
2. Decide Where Your Passions Lie
Now that you’ve identified your skills, the next step is to explore your passions. What excites you? What activities make you feel most alive and engaged? Consider what you enjoy most about your work (or past roles). Often, reflecting on the skills you’ve listed in the first exercise will lead you to uncover your passions.
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure where your passions lie, ask yourself: When was the last time I felt completely energized and excited about something I was working on?
3. Record Your Significant Achievements from the Last 10 Years
Take some time to jot down your accomplishments over the past decade. This includes both work-related and personal achievements. Think about:
Projects where you exceeded expectations or delivered results.
Recognitions, awards, or bonuses.
Contributions that saved or made the company money, helped streamline operations, or improved a process.
Personal accomplishments outside of work (volunteering, starting a personal project, achieving a personal milestone).
This exercise will boost your confidence and help you recognize your value—which is crucial as you embark on the transition process.
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling stuck, ask a trusted colleague or mentor to help jog your memory about your successes. Sometimes others see strengths in us that we overlook.
4. Identify Your Values and Priorities
Think deeply about what matters most to you. What kind of lifestyle are you striving for? What benefits and growth opportunities are most important to you in your next role? This area has changed for many of my clients over the last few years, with an increasing focus on work-life balance, personal fulfillment, and flexibility. Understanding your values and priorities will guide you toward a role and a company that aligns with what you truly want.
Pro Tip: Take a moment to reflect on how your values have changed over the years. Perhaps what mattered to you earlier in your career isn’t as important now—and that’s okay.
5. Define Your “Why”
One of the most underused yet powerful exercises in the career transition process is defining your "why." Why do you want to make a change? Why is this next career step important to you? Keep asking yourself “why” until you dig deep enough to uncover what truly motivates you. This exercise will help you get to the heart of what you seek from your career and your life, and it will provide clarity in your transition.
Pro Tip: Write out your “why” statement and keep it visible. Revisit it often to stay grounded in your purpose.
Get Support in the Process
Remember, career transitions can be challenging, but you don’t have to go through it alone. If you’d like personalized guidance or have questions about any of the exercises, I’m here to help. Book a free consultation at recruitking.ca, and let’s explore how you can make your career change with confidence and clarity.
Good luck, and I look forward to supporting you on your journey!
Mike
Recruit King Coaching
www.recruitking.ca