How to successfully transition into a new role in 2024

Did you know that we spend more than a third of our lives at work? "That's phenomenal! And personally, I'm convinced that this time at work represents a real opportunity for self-expression and fulfilment", explains Joanna Menezes, professional coach with an expertise in career transitions. So during the first Cala Learning Hub webinar of the year, at the outset of 2024, it was the perfect opportunity to reflect on career objectives and career plans.

But what exactly is the point of challenging oneself and progressing professionally? "It's a way of staying motivated in your job, regaining control over your career and giving meaning to what you do," explains Joanna. In her opinion, here are the 5 steps you need to take to do this successfully.

Step 1: Take time out to reflect on your career

According to experts, we should be doing this twice a year! Where am I today in my career? On a scale of 1 to 10, how satisfied am I? Where do I want to be in 1, 5 or 10 years' time? How many years do I have left before I retire? What do I still want to achieve? It could be going on an international assignment, becoming a manager or simply gaining expertise in a particular field. "Whatever the objective, the aim of this first stage is to get an overview of your career path," continues Joanna.

Step 2: Setting oneself SMART goals

Here again, you need to ask yourself the right questions. What skills do I have to achieve my goals? What skills do I need to develop? Who can help me ? What steps do I need to take? It's essential to take the time to consider all these questions, whatever the tool you use: the Ikigai method (a Japanese concept that involves giving meaning to work by finding a balance between what we love, what we need and what is useful to the world), skills assessment, etc.

Step 3: Verify one's ambitions through effective networking

It may seem intimidating, but everyone has a network around them: family, friends, fellow graduates, colleagues, clients... So many people you can turn to for information, advice or a contact. All you have to do is ask them for a chat over a coffee! In addition, there are many professional networks where you can meet new people and exchange ideas on a variety of subjects: clubs, professional associations, women's networks, etc. Not to mention the many opportunities for online networking: on LinkedIn, during webinars, etc. "It's an essential step and it really works," says Joanna.

Step 4: Optimize your communication tools

We need to keep in mind the notion of personal branding, which is essentially the impression that others have of us. How do I dress at work? How do I behave? How do I express myself when I speak and when I write to people? What does my profile on LinkedIn or my CV say about me? Do these tools truly highlight my experience, skills and added value?

Step 5 : Get going!

Get organised – set time aside to think and plan your next career move
Determine what you want to do : your short term and long term career plan
Network frequently : to challenge or confirm your career plans, to be visible, to become aware of opportunities…
Improve your LinkedIn profile and optimise your usage of LinkedIn
Look for opportunities
- Find a job offers you are interested in via specialised job boards
- Identify organizations you would like to work for and find out how to apply for the role you are interested in and to whom (ask your network!)
- Have a multi-channel approach
Ensure your communication tools (CV, CL, pitch) are ready and effectively demonstrate your experience, skills and added value
Prepare for job interviews and salary negotiations