Smartly handling your money during career change, is one big aspect that few handle deftly.
Know 14 important steps that will take you a long way in this.
Grab a seat, pour yourself a cup of your favorite drink, and let’s chat. You’re seeing signs that you need a career change, huh? That’s exciting! But oh, it’s nerve-wracking too, right? You’ve got the jitters, we can tell. Trust us, you’re not alone.
I know you’ve got loads of questions, like “How the heck do I navigate this financial maze while making a career switch?” You’re seeking more than just a paycheck-to-paycheck existence. We hear you, and we’re here for you.
We get how tricky this can be; it’s like trying to balance on a tightrope. On one side you have your biggest career aspirations, and on the other, bills piling up and maybe even a family looking to you for financial security. No pressure, eh?
So let’s dive into this. How do we do this money dance in a way that doesn’t leave us feeling like we’re playing a risky game of financial Jenga?
Managing Your Money During Career Change – A Comprehensive Blueprint
Generally, you start by accessing your career interests when you think of a career change. You research industries with the intent to find interesting new career opportunities.
Then take stock of your core strengths. You identify your transferable skills and plan how you can showcase your transferable skills effectively. All of this is to find out where you naturally fit in or may get the best next stint.
All this while your mind may be shrouded by various myths about career change. But still, you keep the belief and prepare for the most common but tricky interview questions. You spend hours trying to craft a stand-out resume.
All this while, if you did not plan the right steps to manage your finances while handling the career change, you may find yourself in a rather uncomfortable life situation.
This is why here are a few important steps to handle your money effectively during your career change …
1. Start with a Real Budget
First things first. Open up that spreadsheet or take out that notebook.
We’re going to figure out what your current financial reality is. Write down all your income streams. Yes, include that side hustle where you sell hand-crafted soap. Now, let’s list your expenses. Don’t leave anything out— Netflix subscription, you’re not sneaking away!
The point is to see how much runway you have. If you were to lose your job today, how many months could you survive without going completely broke?
The more, the merrier, obviously. If it’s less than three months, it’s time to tighten the belt.
2. Start Building that Rainy-Day Fund
Okay, so you’re switching careers, and maybe your income is going to be a bit uncertain for a while. Ideally, you want at least 6 months of living expenses in a “rainy-day fund.”
Don’t roll your eyes at me; it’s better to be safe than sorry! Cut out those extra luxuries. Do you really need a latte every morning? That’s a couple of hundred bucks saved right there.
Make coffee at home and picture it as adding a few extra bricks to your financial fortress. A bit dramatic, but you get what I mean.
3. Side Hustles Are Your BFF
Here’s the thing: If you’re going into a field that you’re passionate about but doesn’t pay well initially, you’ll need to bridge that gap.
The world is full of opportunities to make a buck on the side. Freelance, tutor, pet sit—heck, sell those artsy photos you take. Find something that doesn’t drain you and adds to your income.
4. Be a Smart Networker
While you’re still at your current job, make the most of your network. Let people know you’re looking to change careers—obviously, be tactful about it.
You don’t want your boss to find out and replace you before you’re ready to leap. Contacts in your desired field can give you an idea of what to expect salary-wise and might even throw some opportunities your way. It’s like having a financial compass.
5. Negotiate, Negotiate, Negotiate
When you’re finally offered that new position, don’t just grab it because you’re desperate to get out of your current job. Know your worth and negotiate your salary.
Every extra dollar you get is another dollar towards that rainy-day fund or even a nice dinner out to celebrate your new job. Remember, the first salary is a starting point for raises and bonuses in the future. Aim high, but be reasonable.
6. Health Insurance & Benefits
If you’re moving from a job with killer benefits to being a freelancer or something similar, remember that you’ll have to cover those yourself. Budget for it!
Look for affordable health plans and start contributing to a retirement fund. Future-you will give you a standing ovation, we promise.
7. Professional Development
Switching careers usually means there’s a lot to learn. Set aside a “learning budget” for courses, books, or any certifications you might need.
See this as an investment, like buying good-quality shoes. It might seem expensive now, but it pays off in the long run.
8. Have a Backup Plan
I hate to say it, but sometimes things don’t work out. Have a plan B. This could be returning to your old career, taking on more side hustles, or even moving to a cheaper place.
Don’t see it as failure; it’s just a detour. Life’s full of them.
9. Master the Art of Frugality
Look, I’m not telling you to morph into Scrooge McDuck here, but there’s something to be said for being wise with your pennies. When you’re in a career transition, some sacrifices need to be made.
Maybe you’ll dine out less or maybe you’ll opt for a staycation instead of a flashy holiday. The idea is to create a lifestyle that you can sustain without stressing about your bank account every second.
Frugality isn’t about deprivation; it’s about making room for what really matters.
Go through your subscriptions—do you use all of them? And what about that gym membership? If it’s just collecting dust, cancel it. Use YouTube workouts for a while. Trust me, your abs won’t know the difference.
10. Lean on Your Support Network
As you’re making this shift, don’t forget that you don’t have to go it alone. Emotional support is just as crucial as financial security.
Talk openly with your family or partner about your plans. Make sure they’re on board and understand that things might be a bit tight for a while. You’ll be surprised how supportive people can be when they see you’re passionate about something.
11. Get Financial Advice
I’m flattered you’re here, seeking my counsel, but I’m also going to be honest. There’s only so much I can offer through a screen.
How about talking to a financial advisor? These wizards can help you tailor a strategy that fits your unique situation. It’s like having a personal trainer but for your wallet.
12. Be Patient but Diligent
Look, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your dream career. As you make the transition, you’ll have days filled with doubts and nights filled with what-ifs.
Trust the process and stick to your financial plan. Keep your eyes peeled for new opportunities to earn and save, and never stop learning.
13. Revisit and Adjust
Every few months, revisit your financial strategy. Are you closer to your goal? Do you have more runway than before, or is it shrinking? Make adjustments as necessary.
Maybe you can afford to ease up a bit, or perhaps you’ll need to hunker down and cut more costs. It’s like recalibrating your GPS when you hit a detour.
14. Celebrate the Small Wins
Did you land a freelance gig? Did you save more this month than the last? Celebrate it! Throw a mini dance party in your living room or treat yourself to something small yet special. It’s easy to get lost in the grind and forget that even small steps are progress.
In Conclusion …
So there it is—the ultimate blueprint to navigating your finances during career change as you leap from one career trapeze to another. We know it seems like a lot to juggle, but take it from someone who’s been through the circus: you’ve got this.
You’re brave for even considering a career change. Many people don’t get that far. With some smart planning, a dash of frugality, and a sprinkle of perseverance, you’ll land safely on the other side, with a job you love and a financial plan that’s rock solid.
Ready to take that leap? Of course, you are! Tie those shoelaces tight, put on that superhero cape, and make that jump. Your future self is eagerly waiting on the other side, ready to thank you for being so daring and so incredibly wise.