Navigating Career Pivots: A Pathway to Personal and Professional Growth

Is it the right time to "jump ship"?

In today's dynamic job market, the concept of a lifelong career with a single trajectory has become increasingly rare. The idea of a "career pivot" has gained prominence, offering individuals the opportunity to explore new professional directions and find fulfilment in their work.

I have to be honest, although I’ve pivoted several times in my career, I only came across the term “pivot” earlier this year from a podcast. The more familiar term was “career change”.

Looking back on my own career path, I’ve pivoted about 5 times and they all came about because there was no more room for me to grow nor new missions to accomplish, so I got bored.

This has been my career journey so far:

Transportation industry > Hotel industry > Spa industry > Telco industry > back to Hotel industry > Education industry.

The most impactful and fulfilling season of my career path was being in the hotel industry and a large part of that was because I had belonged to the best hotel group in the world, ie. Starwood Hotels & Resorts. The company culture, the leaders and my peers had moulded me into who I am today!

Oops, I digressed… back to the topic….

In this article, we will explore:

What a career pivot entails

A career pivot refers to a deliberate shift in one's professional path, often involving a move to a different industry, role, or even entrepreneurial pursuits. It is a conscious decision to explore new opportunities and leverage existing skills, experiences and passions in a fresh context. Rather than abandoning previous accomplishments, a career pivot allows individuals to build upon their existing foundation while embracing a new challenge.

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When it is ideal to consider a pivot

There are several instances when a career pivot becomes an attractive option. One may feel stagnant or unfulfilled in their current role, experience a lack of growth opportunities, or desire a greater alignment between their work and personal values. External factors, such as industry disruptions or changes in market demand, may also prompt the need for a pivot. Most recent example was the COVID-19 pandemic, when many were forced to pivot for the sake of survival. The Singapore government, was exemplary in supporting its citizens, regardless of age, by providing them platforms and financial provisions to take up new skills so that they stand a better chance at seeking alternative source of income. Ultimately, the ideal time to consider a career pivot is when the current trajectory no longer aligns with one's personal and professional goals.

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Who can benefit from it

While a career pivot can be an enriching experience for many, it may not be suitable for everyone. It requires self-reflection, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace change. Those who thrive on new challenges, possess transferable skills, and have a #growthmindset are well-suited for career pivots. However, individuals who value stability, have highly specialised skills, or lack the resources to pursue a new direction, may find it more challenging to pivot.

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How to identify the right direction to pivot

Finding the right path to pivot requires a blend of self-examination, research and experimentation. Reflect on your strengths, passions and core values to identify areas that align with your skills and interests. Conduct thorough research into the industries, roles or ventures that appeal to you. Networking, informational interviews and skill-building activities can provide valuable insights and help you narrow down your options. If you can afford one, hire a professional career coach to help give you the clarity you need. If you need recommendations, I can share a few contacts for you to reach out to. Or, if you just want to engage in a conversation with me to learn from my experiences, please do connect via Doris Suresh Consulting. It will be my pleasure to help shed some light for you through the learnings I gained from my journey.

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Pros and Cons of Pivoting:

Pros of a career pivot include:

• Personal growth

• Increased job satisfaction

• Expanded professional networks

• Potential for higher income

• Opportunity to break free from monotony and embark on a new adventure

Cons:

• May involve a learning curve

• Financial uncertainty during the transition

• Need to build a new professional reputation

It's crucial to carefully evaluate the risks and benefits before deciding to pivot.

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Conclusion:

A #careerpivot can be a transformative journey that opens doors to new possibilities and personal fulfilment.

By recognising the signs, assessing personal goals and conducting thorough research, individuals can make informed decisions about their professional trajectories. While career pivots may not be suitable for everyone, those willing to #embracechange and seek growth can unlock a world of opportunities and chart a more fulfilling path ahead.

Have you pivoted before? What was your reason to pivot and do you wish you had done it sooner? Share your story and learnings because your contribution may help someone out there who may have been contemplating about pivoting but are plagued with fears and doubts.