Thinking about changing careers? You’re far from alone. According to recent research by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC), nearly 37% of UK employees are considering a career change in 2025, up from 29% in 2023. This growing trend reflects shifting priorities around work-life balance, financial pressures, and the desire for more meaningful work.
Whether you’re feeling stuck in your current role, seeking better pay, or simply craving a fresh challenge, making a career change in the UK is more achievable than you might think. The job market is evolving rapidly, with new opportunities emerging in sectors like technology, healthcare, and green energy.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of changing careers in the UK, from assessing your current situation to landing your dream role. We’ll cover practical strategies, essential resources, and real-world advice to help you navigate this exciting transition with confidence.
Why Are So Many UK Workers Changing Careers?
Before diving into the “how,” it’s worth understanding the “why.” Career changes are driven by various factors, and understanding your own motivations is crucial for success.
The Main Drivers Behind Career Changes
According to research from the CIPD, the primary reasons UK workers change careers include:
- Better pay and benefits (35% of career changers)
- Improved job satisfaction (27%)
- Better work-life balance (24%)
- Desire to do a different type of job (23%)
- Unhappiness with leadership (20%)
The cost-of-living crisis has significantly impacted career decisions, with 38% of UK employees wanting an increased salary due to financial pressures. Additionally, research from Go1 found that one in five people change jobs due to “toxic company culture.”
The Financial Benefits of Career Change
Making a strategic career change can significantly boost your earning potential. According to Monster, full-time workers who switch jobs receive an average 5.2% salary increase. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports that workers who moved company but stayed in the same profession saw an average 8% increase in salary, with those in management and senior director categories seeing the highest pay increases at 15%.
Related reading:Â In-Demand Jobs in the UK (2026 Outlook)
Step 1: Assess Your Current Situation
Before making any major decisions, take time to thoroughly evaluate where you are now and why you want to change.
Reflect on Your Motivations
Ask yourself these critical questions:
- What specifically don’t I like about my current job?
- What aspects of my work do I enjoy?
- Is it the job itself, the company culture, my workload, or something else?
- What would my ideal work situation look like?
- How has my attitude towards this career changed over time?
According to career change experts, it’s essential to distinguish between wanting to change your specific job versus changing your entire career path. Sometimes, the solution might be finding a different role within your current industry rather than a complete career overhaul.
Conduct a Skills Audit
Identify your transferable skills—those abilities that apply across different industries. These typically include:
- Communication skills (written and verbal)
- Leadership and team management
- Problem-solving and analytical thinking
- Project management
- Time management and organisation
- Customer service
- Technical skills (software proficiency, data analysis, etc.)
The UK Learning & Work Institute found that 69% of people looking for a career change felt they did not have the necessary skills. However, most people underestimate the value of their transferable skills.
Evaluate Your Financial Position
Career changes often involve financial considerations. Consider:
- Your current savings and financial cushion
- Whether you can afford a potential temporary pay cut
- The cost of any necessary training or qualifications
- Your financial commitments (mortgage, dependents, etc.)
Step 2: Research Potential Career Paths
Once you understand your motivations and skills, it’s time to explore what opportunities exist.
Identify Growing Industries in the UK
According to Indeed’s 2026 UK Jobs & Hiring Trends Report, certain sectors are showing particular strength:
- Education & instruction (postings remain elevated above pre-pandemic baseline)
- Mechanical engineering
- Social science
- Technology and IT (particularly AI-related roles, with 5.6% of UK postings mentioning AI)
- Healthcare (ongoing demand for qualified professionals)
- Green energy (as the UK pushes towards net-zero targets)
The Office for National Statistics provides regular updates on occupations in demand across the UK labour market.
Research Specific Roles
Use job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Adzuna to:
- Explore day-to-day responsibilities of roles that interest you
- Identify required qualifications and experience
- Understand salary expectations
- See what skills employers are prioritising
The National Careers Service offers over 800 job profiles with detailed information about different careers, including entry requirements, typical salaries, and career progression opportunities.
Conduct Informational Interviews
Reach out to people already working in your target industry. According to career transition experts, speaking with professionals can provide invaluable insights into:
- What a typical day looks like
- The challenges and rewards of the role
- How they got started in the field
- What skills are most valued
- Advice for career changers
LinkedIn is an excellent platform for connecting with professionals and requesting brief informational interviews.
Step 3: Gain Relevant Experience and Skills
One of the biggest challenges career changers face is the perceived lack of relevant experience. Here’s how to bridge that gap.
Upskilling and Reskilling Options
The UK offers numerous pathways for gaining new skills:
Online Learning Platforms:
- Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer flexible courses
- Many provide industry-recognised certifications
- Can be completed alongside current employment
Formal Qualifications:
- Conversion courses allow graduates to switch fields (e.g., engineering, healthcare, IT, teaching)
- Postgraduate diplomas (PGDip) in new specialisms
- Professional certifications (e.g., CompTIA for IT, project management qualifications)
Government-Funded Support:
The National Careers Service provides free, impartial careers advice and can guide you towards funded training opportunities. You can contact them at 0800 100 900 or via webchat.
Practical Experience Opportunities
According to career change specialists, gaining hands-on experience is crucial:
Volunteering:
- Develops field-related skills
- Can be listed on your CV
- Demonstrates commitment to your new career path
- Expands your professional network
Internships and Apprenticeships:
- 70% of companies extend full-time job offers to interns
- Provides valuable industry experience
- Can lead to permanent positions
Part-Time or Freelance Work:
- Test out your new career while maintaining income
- Build a portfolio of work
- Develop client relationships
Job Shadowing:
- Observe professionals in your target field
- Understand daily responsibilities and workplace culture
- Can often be arranged through your current employer or network
Step 4: Leverage Your Transferable Skills
Your existing experience is more valuable than you might think. The key is presenting it effectively.
Identify Your Transferable Skills
Research shows that the average British worker changes jobs every 5 years, and many successfully leverage skills from previous roles. Common transferable skills include:
- Project management (planning, coordinating, delivering results)
- Communication (presentations, report writing, client relations)
- Leadership (team motivation, conflict resolution, decision-making)
- Problem-solving (analytical thinking, creative solutions)
- Technical proficiency (software, data analysis, digital tools)
Showcase Skills Effectively
When crafting your CV and cover letter:
For Your CV:
- Use a skills-based format rather than purely chronological
- Create a dedicated skills section highlighting relevant abilities
- Quantify achievements with numbers and metrics
- Focus on results rather than just responsibilities
Example:
Instead of: “Responsible for managing social media accounts”
Write: “Increased social media engagement by 145% over 12 months, generating 2,300 new leads and £50,000 in additional revenue”
For Your Cover Letter:
- Explain your motivation for the career change
- Connect your past experiences to the new role’s requirements
- Demonstrate knowledge of the company and industry
- Show enthusiasm and commitment
The Prospects career change guide provides templates specifically designed for career changers.
Step 5: Build Your Professional Network
Networking is crucial for career changers. According to career transition research, many opportunities come through professional connections rather than traditional job applications.
Networking Strategies
LinkedIn Optimisation:
- Update your profile to reflect your career change goals
- Use a professional headshot
- Write a compelling headline and summary
- Share industry-relevant content
- Join professional groups in your target field
Attend Industry Events:
- Conferences, seminars, and webinars
- Local networking meetups
- Professional association events
- Career fairs
Join Professional Communities:
- Online forums and Discord groups
- Industry-specific associations
- Alumni networks from any courses you complete
Informational Interviews:
- Reach out to people who’ve made similar career transitions
- Ask for 15-20 minute conversations
- Prepare thoughtful questions
- Follow up and maintain relationships
Step 6: Navigate the Job Search Process
Searching for jobs during a career change requires a strategic approach.
Where to Find Opportunities
- Job Boards: Indeed, LinkedIn, Adzuna, Totaljobs, Reed
- Company Websites: Apply directly to organisations you’re interested in
- Recruitment Agencies: Many specialise in specific industries
- Professional Networks: Leverage connections for insider opportunities
- National Careers Service: Free support for job searching
Tailor Your Applications
Career advisors emphasise that generic applications rarely succeed for career changers. Instead:
- Research each company thoroughly
- Customise your CV for each application
- Use keywords from the job description
- Address potential concerns about your career change proactively
- Highlight relevant achievements and transferable skills
Prepare for Interviews
Career change interviews require special preparation:
Anticipate Common Questions:
- “Why are you changing careers?”
- “What makes you qualified for this role?”
- “How will your previous experience benefit our company?”
Craft Your Narrative:
Frame your career change positively. For example:
“After five rewarding years in marketing where I excelled in campaign management, I’m shifting my focus to data analysis—a field that aligns with my passion for problem-solving. I’ve been actively upskilling in statistical analysis and am eager to apply these skills to strategic decision-making.”
Demonstrate Commitment:
- Discuss courses you’ve completed
- Mention relevant projects or volunteer work
- Show knowledge of industry trends
- Express genuine enthusiasm for the field
Step 7: Overcome Common Obstacles
Career changes come with challenges. Here’s how to address them.
Age Concerns
According to career change statistics, one in three UK workers over 30 feel it’s too late to change careers. However:
- The most common age to make a career change is 31 (Michael Page)
- Over 11% of those aged 50 or older are interested in changing careers
- Mature workers bring valuable experience, reliability, and perspective
Lack of Confidence
City & Guilds research found that one in five Brits lack the confidence to make a career change. Combat this by:
- Starting with small steps (courses, volunteering)
- Seeking support from career advisors
- Connecting with others who’ve made similar transitions
- Celebrating small wins along the way
Financial Concerns
29% of potential career-changers cite financial insecurity as a barrier. Strategies to manage this:
- Build savings before making the transition
- Consider part-time or freelance work in your new field first
- Look for roles that offer training while employed
- Explore government-funded training programmes
Skills Gaps
If you’re missing key qualifications:
- Identify the most critical skills for entry-level positions
- Focus on gaining those first
- Consider apprenticeships or trainee programmes
- Highlight your ability and willingness to learn
UK-Specific Resources and Support
The UK offers extensive support for career changers:
Government Services
- Free, impartial careers advice for all ages
- Skills assessments and career exploration tools
- Course finder for training opportunities
- Phone support: 0800 100 900
- Webchat available during business hours
Regional Services:
Training and Funding
- Apprenticeships: Available for all ages, allowing you to earn while you learn
- Skills Bootcamps: Intensive training in digital and technical skills
- Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs): Combine training with guaranteed job interviews
- Professional and Career Development Loans: Government-backed loans for vocational training
Professional Organisations
Many industries have professional bodies offering:
- Career guidance and mentorship
- Networking opportunities
- Industry-specific qualifications
- Job boards and recruitment services
Success Stories: Real Career Changes in the UK
Understanding how others have successfully changed careers can provide inspiration and practical insights.
Common Successful Transitions
According to Indeed data, the occupations people most wanted to leave were:
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Community & Social Service
- Retail & Customer Service
Popular destination careers include:
- Technology roles (software development, cybersecurity, data analysis)
- Project management (across various industries)
- Healthcare (nursing, allied health professions)
- Education (teaching, training, educational support)
- Business analysis
The CIPD reports that 4 million people have changed careers since the pandemic, with flexibility being a major driver.
Creating Your Career Change Action Plan
Now it’s time to put everything together into a concrete plan.
Set Clear, Achievable Goals
Break down your career change into manageable steps:
Short-term (1-3 months):
- Complete skills assessment
- Research target industries and roles
- Begin networking in your chosen field
- Start relevant online courses
Medium-term (3-6 months):
- Gain practical experience (volunteering, projects)
- Complete key certifications or training
- Update CV and LinkedIn profile
- Begin applying for entry-level or transitional roles
Long-term (6-12 months):
- Secure position in new field
- Continue professional development
- Build expertise and reputation
- Plan for career progression
Track Your Progress
Use tools like spreadsheets or job tracking apps to monitor:
- Applications submitted
- Networking contacts made
- Courses completed
- Skills developed
- Interviews attended
Stay Flexible
Career changes rarely follow a straight path. Be prepared to:
- Adjust your timeline based on opportunities
- Consider stepping-stone roles
- Remain open to unexpected opportunities
- Learn from setbacks
The Future of Career Changes in the UK
The landscape of work continues to evolve, creating both challenges and opportunities for career changers.
Emerging Trends
AI and Automation:
McKinsey Global Institute research suggests that by 2030, at least 14% of employees globally could need to change careers due to AI advancements. However, AI is also creating new roles and opportunities for those willing to adapt.
Hybrid and Remote Work:
The shift to flexible working has opened up opportunities for career changers. 80% of employees say working flexibly has had a positive impact on their quality of life, and 3% (around 1.1 million workers) have left jobs due to lack of flexibility.
Green Careers:
As the UK pushes towards net-zero targets, the National Careers Service highlights growing opportunities in renewable energy, environmental conservation, and sustainable business practices.
Skills-Based Hiring:
Employers are increasingly focusing on skills rather than traditional qualifications, making career changes more accessible for those who can demonstrate relevant abilities.
Key Takeaways
Changing careers in the UK is a significant but achievable goal. Here are the essential points to remember:
You’re not alone: 37% of UK employees are considering career changes, and millions have successfully made the transition.
Assess thoroughly: Understand your motivations, skills, and financial situation before making decisions.
Research extensively: Explore growing industries, specific roles, and speak with professionals in your target field.
Gain relevant experience: Use volunteering, courses, internships, and part-time work to build credibility.
Leverage transferable skills: Your existing experience is valuable—learn to present it effectively.
Network strategically: Build connections in your target industry through LinkedIn, events, and professional communities.
Use available resources: Take advantage of free government services like the National Careers Service.
Stay persistent: Career changes take time, but with planning and determination, success is within reach.
Remain flexible: Be open to stepping-stone roles and unexpected opportunities.
Invest in yourself: Continuous learning and skill development are essential for long-term career success.
Conclusion
Changing careers in the UK may seem daunting, but with the right approach, resources, and mindset, it’s entirely achievable. The UK job market offers diverse opportunities across growing sectors, and employers increasingly value transferable skills and fresh perspectives.
Whether you’re motivated by better pay, improved work-life balance, or simply the desire for more fulfilling work, taking control of your career path is one of the most empowering decisions you can make. Start with small, manageable steps—assess your situation, research your options, and begin building the skills you need.
Remember, the National Careers Service is available to provide free, expert guidance throughout your journey. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support at 0800 100 900 or via their website.
Your next career chapter is waiting. With careful planning, persistence, and the strategies outlined in this guide, you can successfully navigate your career change and find work that truly fulfills you.