As a Brit, unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ll know that Brexit has reshaped the economic landscape, leaving professionals facing some significant challenges. Naturally, many people are looking to revive their careers in this confusing new environment. So, if that sounds like you, this list will give you some strategies for making a career comeback in the post-Brexit economy.
Reevaluate Your Core Skills
The first step to reigniting your career is to understand how your existing skills align with the demands of the post-Brexit job market. This will involve identifying transferable skills that can be applied in new industries, especially those that NIESR reports have been in demand since we left the EU. Consider which of your abilities are most relevant and where gaps might exist, then plan to fill those gaps accordingly.
Embrace Continuous Learning
It’s always wise to keep your skills up-to-date, but this is more critical than ever in the post-Brexit economy. Consider enrolling in online courses or workshops to enhance your qualifications or even go back to university. It’s best to focus on areas where there is growing demand, such as digital skills or regulatory knowledge related to Brexit changes, of which there are plenty.
Expand Your Professional Network
Connections are crucial in today’s job market, so it’s definitely worth reconnecting with former colleagues, attending industry events, and engaging in online networking platforms. Building and maintaining relationships with professionals in your field can lead to unexpected opportunities and provide valuable insights into emerging industry trends, so don’t underestimate the importance of networking.
Seek Guidance from a Career Coach
Professional advice can make a significant difference during a career comeback, so there’s no need to tackle the complexities of post-Brexit Britain alone. A career coach can help you assess your strengths, set realistic goals, and develop a strategic plan. They offer an objective perspective and can provide tailored advice that aligns with the specific challenges of the post-Brexit economy, so it’s well worth giving a go.
Stay Informed About Market Trends
Another way to reignite your career in the post-Brexit economy is to keep yourself updated on industry news and economic trends. Understanding how Brexit impacts different sectors can help you identify potential opportunities and threats, so it might be worth reading industry publications and following relevant news sources to keep you informed.
Update Your Personal Brand
Your personal brand is a reflection of your professional identity, and that includes your online presence, such as on LinkedIn and other social media platforms. You should make sure that this accurately reflects your current skills, experiences, and career aspirations, as a polished and up-to-date personal brand can attract recruiters and open new doors in your career.
Be Open to New Opportunities
Flexibility can be a valuable asset in a changing job market. Consider roles that might not align perfectly with your previous experience but offer growth potential, as being open to new opportunities, even if they require a slight pivot in your career path, can lead to unexpected success.
Leverage Transferable Skills
Never underestimate the importance of transferable skills when it comes to making a career comeback. These are skills that can be applied across different roles or industries. For example, abilities like leadership, communication, and problem-solving, are all valuable in any professional setting, regardless of industry.
Consider Freelancing or Consulting
The post-Brexit economy has seen a rise in flexible work arrangements, so why not make use of them? Freelancing or consulting can provide a way to rebuild your career on your terms, giving you the flexibility and opportunity to leverage your expertise while exploring different industries and sectors. It’s well worth a try, especially if a normal 9 to 5 job isn’t your cuppa.
Develop Resilience and Adaptability
Some of the most critical traits in a rapidly changing job market such as the post-Brexit economy is resilience and adaptability. You should work on these qualities to give yourself an advantage in working through career setbacks. Embrace change as a chance to grow and learn, and approach challenges with a positive and proactive mindset, and you’ll be making a comeback in no time.
Invest in Professional Development
It’s all too common for Brits to forget to invest in their professional development, leaving them stagnant in their career. Don’t do that; instead, pursue advanced certifications, attend industry conferences, and participate in workshops to give yourself a leg-up. Continued professional development ensures that your skills remain relevant and that you are prepared to take on new challenges as they arise.
Reassess Your Career Goals
Your career goals may need to be adjusted in light of Brexit’s impact, so don’t just sit there hoping for your original goals to manifest. Take some time to reassess what you want from your professional life and how the current economic climate may influence these goals. Setting clear, achievable objectives is always the best port of call, as this will help you stay focused and motivated as you work toward your comeback.
Cultivate a Growth Mindset
A growth mindset is the belief that your abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work, one that you should definitely adopt. Cultivating such a mindset will help you overcome challenges and continue progressing in your career, even amid the confusions of Brexit. Focus on learning from setbacks and view them as opportunities to improve and grow professionally, and your career will be thriving in no time.
Strengthen Your Financial Literacy
It’s a wise idea to strengthen your financial literacy in the post-Brexit economy, as our economic situation is complicated. Study personal finance, investment strategies, and economic trends, and this knowledge will certainly help you make informed decisions about your career and ensure your financial security.
Focus on Health and Wellbeing
A successful career comeback also involves taking care of your physical and mental health, so don’t neglect these things in the pursuit of “grind culture.” Instead, prioritize your well-being by maintaining a balanced lifestyle, managing stress, and seeking support when needed. This will be far more productive in the long run than endlessly working on your comeback, which would otherwise inevitably lead to burnout.
Engage in Strategic Volunteering
Many Brits underestimate the importance of volunteering, which can be a strategic way to enhance your career prospects. It allows you to gain new skills, expand your network, and make a positive impact. Choose volunteer opportunities that align with your career goals and offer experiences that can add value to your professional profile, and you’ll be surprised at how much this can push your career forward.
Rebuild Confidence and Self-Esteem
Above all, Brexit has caused most Brits to take a hit when it comes to their self-esteem, but it’s crucial to rebuild it. You should engage in activities that boost self-esteem, such as setting small, achievable goals and celebrating your successes. Better still, surround yourself with positive influences and remember that self-belief is a key component of a successful career comeback, and you’ll be thriving again before you know it.