Signs it’s time to make a strategic career pivot

Signs that it’s time for a change may be big and obvious, such as being made redundant or having to cope with toxic colleagues. Equally, the signs may be more subtle—perhaps a creeping awareness that the ground is shifting, or that you yourself are changing and that it’s time to think deeply and consider your career options.

Let’s look at some of the signs, some of which may be present now or may occur in the future.

Your learning curve has flattened

You can do your job on auto-pilot. You’re neither being stretched, nor are you growing or building your skills and ability to add value. This may have led you to becoming less enthusiastic and less engaged, and people may be noticing As a result, you may no longer be invited to participate in new initiatives, and you may find yourself excluded from meetings. This, in the long-term, can also make it harder to move should it no longer be an option, but a necessity.

The environment is changing faster than you are

You may not be adapting to the rapid changes in new technology (for example, the advent of AI) that are reshaping your area of expertise. Furthermore, younger colleagues may be perceived as being better able to cope with the pace of change and as having the skills and mindset to flourish. It may also be that your firm is going through restructuring or has acquired new businesses, and this may negatively affect your area of work.

You’ve changed — values shift

As we go through life, what we consider most important will inevitably change. If you’re not feeling fulfilled or engaged in what you’re doing, it may be that your values are no longer aligned with your career.

It’s very difficult to reach a state of peak performance or flow if your career isn’t aligned with your values. More often than not, you’ll feel drained and unhappy. When that happens, it’s time for a reassessment.

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A significant career pivot is serious business and, in my view, should only be undertaken after careful consideration. It’s important to spot the signs, acknowledge them, and take steps to make changes at a time of your choosing, rather than simply reacting when circumstances force you to do so.

Remain highly aware of the shifting landscape within your firm and the wider market. Continue to develop your skills, gain new experiences, and pursue further training and qualifications. Initiate exploratory conversations to better understand what your realistic career options might be. Finally, create some form of career plan that gives you optionality and agility.

If you’re considering a radial career pivot, let’s talk. Many of my coaching clients come to me with the feeling that it’s time for a strategic career shift. Use this link to book a free 15-minute Coaching Call to see if this is something we can help you with.