If you’re thinking about switching careers in the next 10-12 months, but afraid that you don’t have the right skills or qualifications or you’re worried that you’re too old to start over, I put together this piece to help you navigate that. And no, it doesn’t require another expensive degree or years of waiting to make the switch.
Career pivots aren’t just about changing industries they’re about repositioning yourself. The good thing is that platforms like LinkedIn make it easier now than ever to build credibility, connect with people in your new field, and attract new opportunities that align with your next chapter.
1. Revamp Your LinkedIn Profile
If you’re serious about pivoting careers without starting over, your LinkedIn profile is the first place to start. It’s not just a digital résumé, it’s your personal search engine profile. When recruiters or hiring managers look for candidates in your desired industry, they’re not searching by job titles alone, they’re searching with keywords related to that industry. That’s why your profile should contain these details.
Begin with your headline. Instead of labeling yourself by your current job title, describe what you do and want to be known for. Next, update your About section to tell your story. Be honest about your transition, but focus on the value you bring. Talk about why you’re making this shift and how your transferable skills like leadership, problem-solving, or communication apply in your new field. Recruiters love seeing clarity and purpose.
Don’t overlook your Featured section. Use it to share posts, certifications, or projects that align with your new career path. Even small volunteer projects or online course completions show commitment.
2. Post Strategically
In the early months of your career pivot, consistency is more powerful than perfection. Use your posts to share your learning journey and insights about your new industry. Talk about what drew you to it, the challenges you’re facing, or lessons you’ve learned as you switch careers at 30, 35, or even 40. This type of content shows you’re actively growing and developing expertise, even before you land a role in your new field.
When recruiters or hiring managers come across your profile, your content should already reflect someone who understands the space you’re moving into. It builds trust. It tells them, “This person gets it.”
If you’re unsure where to start, here are simple post ideas that work well:
- Why you’re pivoting into this new field
- What you’ve learned so far from courses, projects, or mentors
- How your transferable skills are helping you adapt
- What challenges you’ve faced and how you’re solving them
- At this point, your goal isn’t to prove you’re an expert overnight, it’s to document your growth. Every post adds strengthens your positioning.
RELATED: 5 Best Ways to Job Search on LinkedIn: Proven LinkedIn Job Strategy
3. Grow Your Network
Network with professionals who are one or two steps ahead of you, people in roles you want, or those who’ve made a career pivot similar to yours. Send a personalized DM to your new network. This will increase your chances of building genuine professional relationships.
How to send a Personalized Message on LinkedIn:
To genuinely connect with people outside your network, don’t just hit “Connect” and send a blank request. Do this instead:
- Go to the person’s profile and click “Connect.”
- Choose “Add a note” and write a short, personalized message (which could be an achievement you noticed on their profile, a shared interest, mutual connection, or why you’d like to connect).
4. Announce What You Want
No one can help you if they don’t know what you’re looking for.
If you’re looking to take up a new role, share your career goals with friends and family, they’re your first contact.
You’ve acquired the skill, so start telling people around you what you do now.
Your first client might just come from your first contact. You’d be surprised how often one announcement can lead to the right business opportunity. Take advantage of LinkedIn Messaging and starting getting the attention of the right people who can pay you for your services.
