Reskilling is a topic that is on more and more people’s minds. The labour market is changing rapidly, jobs are disappearing or evolving, and more and more professionals are wondering whether their current knowledge and skills are still fit for the future. A retraining programme can therefore be a smart move, but how do you go about it and how much time does it actually take?
In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about retraining, so that you can get a clear idea of what to expect. Whether you’re considering a career change yourself or are simply curious about the options available, you’ll find clear answers here.
What exactly is a retraining programme?
A reskilling programme is a targeted learning and development programme in which a person acquires new knowledge, skills and competences in order to start working in a different profession or sector. It differs from further training in that the focus is on a completely new direction, rather than on deepening existing expertise.
Retraining can take many forms. Sometimes it involves a formal course leading to a recognised qualification, but it can also consist of a combination of courses, practical experience and personal guidance. What all these forms have in common is that they are aimed at a specific transition to a new field of work or a new role.
It is important to note that retraining does not mean throwing everything you have learnt so far overboard. Many skills and experiences can be transferred to a new career path. A good retraining programme deliberately builds on what you already have to offer and supplements this where necessary.
How long does a retraining programme take on average?
The average duration of a reskilling programme is between six months and two years. This depends largely on the new career path a person chooses, the qualifications required and the intensity of the programme. Shorter retraining programmes lasting three to six months are available for specific vocational courses, whilst a full vocational retraining programme may take longer.
Retraining for a technical profession or a role in the healthcare sector usually takes longer than retraining for a role that is closely aligned with your previous experience. The way in which you undertake the programme also plays a part: full-time retraining is, of course, quicker than part-time study alongside an existing job.
In addition to formal training, the time required for career exploration, career guidance and gaining practical experience is also important. Those who clearly identify their goals and abilities in advance often save time when undertaking the programme.
What factors determine the duration of retraining?
The duration of a reskilling programme is determined by a combination of personal, subject-specific and practical factors. The most important of these are: the gap between your current and desired role, the level of education required in the new field, the time you have available each week, and the learning method you choose.
The main factors are listed below:
- Distance to the new field of study: The bigger the step, the more time it takes to build up the necessary knowledge and skills.
- Required qualifications: Some professions require a recognised qualification or certificate, which is one of the factors that determines the length of the programme.
- Time available: Those who can retrain full-time usually complete their training more quickly than those who do so part-time.
- Previous experience: Relevant work experience or transferable skills can shorten the duration, as you won’t have to start from scratch as much.
- Personal motivation and learning pace: People who know exactly what they want and are motivated often complete a programme more quickly and effectively.
Thorough preparation – ensuring you have a clear understanding of who you are and what you want to achieve – not only shortens the process but also makes it more effective. Self-awareness is an underestimated factor in the success of retraining.
What is the difference between retraining and outplacement?
Retraining focuses on acquiring new skills for a different profession or field. Outplacement is a support programme that helps someone find a new job, often following redundancy or a reorganisation. The two sometimes overlap, but have different starting points and objectives.
Outplacement focuses on supporting individuals in finding a new job. This may involve someone looking for a similar role elsewhere, but it may also lead to the realisation that a different career path is a better fit. In that case, retraining can form part of the outplacement process.
Reskilling is therefore broader in scope and more focused on content, whilst outplacement is more process-oriented. However, the two approaches can go hand in hand. Anyone wishing to take their career in a new direction following a period of uncertainty or redundancy may sometimes need both: support during the transition and the practical development of new skills.
When is retraining the right choice?
A career change is the right choice if your current role or field of work no longer aligns with the job market, your own ambitions or your personal qualities. It is also a good option if you find that your work no longer challenges you enough, or if your organisation is changing in a way that renders your role redundant.
Clear indications that retraining could be a wise move:
- Your job is being made redundant due to automation, technological changes or a reorganisation.
- You’ve been feeling for some time now that your job no longer suits you.
- You want to develop in a direction for which your current background does not provide a sufficient foundation.
- You’re keen to start a career in a completely different field.
- You feel that your talents and qualities are not being fully utilised in your current role.
Retraining is not a way of escaping a difficult situation, but a conscious choice to invest in your own future. Remaining employable in the long term It starts with a willingness to take a look at who you are, what you’re capable of, and what the labour market currently needs.
How do you get started on a retraining programme?
A retraining programme begins with self-reflection: who are you, what are your strengths and what do you want to achieve? You then identify which direction suits you best and what is required to get there. Only then do you choose a specific course or form of support that matches your situation and goals.
A practical, step-by-step approach:
- Gaining self-insight: Identify your talents, values and motivations. This forms the basis for finding the right direction.
- Exploring the job market: Find out which sectors and roles are growing and where your profile is a good fit.
- Setting direction: Choose a specific goal based on what you want and what is realistically achievable.
- Compare training options: See which courses, programmes or pathways suit your schedule and budget.
- Looking for support: A coach or career counsellor can help you make choices and keep you on track.
The first step is often the hardest, but also the most valuable. Those who know exactly what they want make quicker and better-informed choices throughout the entire process.
How Nieuwkans helps with retraining and career development
At Nieuwkans, we support employees who are at a crossroads in their careers. Whether you’re considering a career change, looking to find more fulfilment in your work, or wanting to work on your long-term employability, we’ll help you move forward with an approach that’s fully tailored to you.
What we offer:
- Personal insight into your talents and cognitive behavioural preferences using scientifically proven methods, including the BrainsFirst approach.
- Two interactive sessions focusing on sustainable employability, both now and in the future.
- Support in exploring the labour market and setting a realistic course.
- Tailored coaching and career guidance, fully tailored to your personal situation and goals.
- Support with outplacement where the situation requires it.
We believe that everyone can shape their own future. With the right guidance and the necessary self-awareness, you can take steps that are truly right for you. Are you curious to find out what we can do for you? Contact us and find out how we can work together to shape your future.