Thinking About Changing Career?
Considering a career change? Learn how to plan your next step, update your CV, and prepare for interviews with expert guidance.
Changing career can be both exciting and daunting. Whether you are looking for a fresh challenge, more flexible working, greater stability, or a role that feels more meaningful, making a move into a new sector often takes planning and confidence.
A career transition should feel empowering, not overwhelming. If you are considering a move into health and social care or other public sector roles in Surrey, Surrey Talent Hub can support you through the process.
Why people change career
There is no single reason people decide to switch careers. Some common motivations include:
- seeking better work-life balance or flexible working
- wanting a job with stronger long-term stability
- looking for more fulfilment and purpose in day-to-day work
- needing a new challenge or clearer progression
Whatever your reason, making a change starts with understanding what you want from your next role.
Step 1: Identify your career goals
Before applying for roles, take time to clarify what success looks like for you. For example:
- Purpose: do you want work that makes a direct impact on people’s lives?
- Flexibility: do you need shifts, part-time options, or predictable hours?
- Financial growth: are you aiming for higher pay or progression opportunities?
- Stability: are you looking for a long-term career pathway?
Once you are clear on your goals, it becomes easier to choose roles that fit your lifestyle and strengths.
Step 2: Upskill and gain the right qualifications
Some roles require specific training, qualifications, or experience. If you are changing career, you may need to fill a skills gap before you apply.
Surrey Talent Hub can help you identify:
- which skills are transferable from your current role
- what training may be useful for your target role
- how to approach entry routes such as volunteering, placements, or introductory roles
You do not always need to have everything already — many people enter the sector through progression pathways and on-the-job development.
Step 3: Update your CV for a career change
When switching careers, your CV should focus on transferable skills and relevant achievements. Recruiting managers may review many CVs for one role, so clarity matters.
To strengthen your CV:
- use a short personal summary that explains your career change goal
- highlight transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, reliability, or problem-solving
- use achievement-based bullet points rather than listing duties
Need help? Read: CV writing tips and supporting statement writing tips.
Step 4: Prepare for interviews with confidence
If you have been shortlisted for an interview, preparation is key — especially when moving into a new sector. Mock interviews and structured practice can help you feel more confident, communicate clearly, and reduce nerves.
You can start here: common interview questions and answers.
Next steps
If you are thinking about changing career, you do not have to figure it out alone. Surrey Talent Hub can support you through your next steps, from identifying goals to improving your application and interview confidence.
Looking for your next career opportunity in health and social care?
Join Surrey Talent Hub Talent pool to explore health and social care jobs in Surrey.
You may also find these helpful: Career Advice & Insight | Payroll FAQs | Right to Work checks
