The labour market is changing at breakneck speed. Jobs that were taken for granted ten years ago are now under pressure from technology, automation and shifting demand. More and more workers are asking themselves: should I retrain, or is there another way? Retraining is a big step, but for many people it is also the key to a career that really suits them.
In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about retraining, so that you can make an informed decision. Whether you’re unsure, curious or almost certain that it’s time to take a new direction: you’ll find clear answers here.
What is retraining, and how does it differ from further training?
Retraining means choosing a completely new direction within your career, acquiring new knowledge and skills for a different profession or field. Further training, on the other hand, deepens or updates your knowledge within your current field. The difference lies in the degree of change: further training builds on what you are already doing, whilst retraining opens up a new path.
With further training, for example, you might take a course to keep up to date with the latest software in your sector. With retraining, you might decide, for example, to move from the healthcare sector to IT, or from an administrative role to a role in education. The investment in time, energy and, sometimes, money is greater with a career change, but so too is the potential improvement in your job satisfaction and career prospects.
It’s worth realising that retraining doesn’t always mean you have to start from scratch. Many of the skills you’ve built up over the years are transferable to a new career path. Think of communication skills, project management or analytical thinking. You can take these with you, no matter which sector you end up in.
What are the signs that retraining is needed?
A career change is probably the right choice if you find that your current job is no longer fundamentally in line with who you are, what you’re capable of or what you want. This goes beyond a temporary slump or a difficult spell. It’s about persistent signs indicating that your career needs a fundamentally different direction.
Do any of the following situations sound familiar to you?
- For some time now, you’ve felt little enthusiasm or energy for your work, even after a holiday or a break.
- You notice that demand for your role or field of expertise is falling sharply due to automation or changes in the market.
- You feel that you’re barely able to make use of your talents and strengths in your current role.
- You’ve been dreaming of a different career for years, but you’ve never seriously considered taking that step.
- You have been through a reorganisation or made redundant, and see this as an opportunity to make a fresh start.
These signs are not a cause for concern, but rather an invitation to think seriously about what you want and need in your career. They provide direction.
How do you know which new direction is right for you?
You can find the right new direction when retraining by asking yourself three fundamental questions: who am I, what can I do, and what do I want? Together, the answers to these questions form the compass for your career choice. Self-insight is the starting point here, not the labour market.
Start by identifying your natural talents and motivations. What gives you energy? What gets you excited? In which situations do you feel you’re at your best? Write these down, discuss them with people who know you well, or use a structured method such as a talent scan. Scientifically-backed tools can help with this by highlighting your cognitive behavioural preferences and strengths.
Next, combine this self-awareness with an analysis of the job market. Which sectors are growing? Where is there demand for people with your profile? A good new direction is one where your talents align with realistic job market prospects. This makes retraining not only personally worthwhile, but also practically feasible.
What are the pros and cons of retraining?
Retraining offers great opportunities, but also requires careful consideration. The benefits are tangible and significant, but the challenges are real and deserve attention. A well-considered decision starts with understanding both sides.
Benefits of retraining
- Greater job satisfaction: A career that matches your talents and interests brings greater satisfaction and motivation.
- Greater future-proofing: By choosing a growing sector or a future-oriented profession, you increase your long-term employability in the labour market.
- Personal development: The learning process involved in retraining boosts your self-confidence and enhances your ability to adapt.
- New opportunities: A new direction opens doors that remained closed in your current career.
Disadvantages and points to consider
- Time commitment: Retraining takes time – sometimes several months or even years, depending on the new career path.
- Financial uncertainty: During a retraining programme, your income may be temporarily lower, particularly if you work fewer hours in order to study.
- Uncertainty and doubt: Letting go of a familiar role can feel uncomfortable, even if the new direction is appealing.
- Adjustment period: In a new sector, you have to start from scratch when it comes to building up a network and a reputation.
The drawbacks are real, but for many people, the prospect of a career that really suits them carries more weight. The key is thorough preparation and guidance.
How do you go about retraining as a working adult?
As a working adult, you start your retraining by first getting a clear idea of the direction you want to take, then exploring your options, and finally drawing up a concrete plan that fits in with your current life and commitments. ‘Step by step’ is the key here.
- Explore your path: Before choosing a course, take the time to get to know yourself better. Talk to people working in the field that interests you, attend information sessions or take part in an introductory programme.
- Explore your options: Find out which degree programmes, courses or qualifications match your chosen field. Many reskilling programmes are available on a part-time or online basis, so you can continue working.
- Make use of the resources available: Check with your employer to see if there is a budget available for training. You might also want to look into government grants or schemes that provide financial support for retraining.
- Plan realistically: Combine retraining with your current life by drawing up a realistic plan. Don’t overestimate yourself, but don’t underestimate your potential either.
- Seek guidance: A career coach or counsellor can help you make the right choices and support you when the going gets tough.
Reskilling is rarely a sprint, but rather a deliberate journey. Those who prepare well for that journey significantly increase their chances of achieving a lasting result.
When is retraining not the best solution?
A change of career isn’t always the right choice. Sometimes a different approach is more effective, such as further training, a different role within the same organisation, or personal coaching to get more out of your current position. A change of career only makes sense if the root of the problem really lies within your field or career path.
Consider alternatives to retraining such as:
- You essentially still enjoy your job, but you’re looking for new challenges or more responsibility.
- Your dissatisfaction stems mainly from the working environment, the corporate culture or your relationship with colleagues, not from the work itself.
- You have not yet fully explored the possibilities within your current field or sector.
- You’re going through an emotionally turbulent period, such as after being made redundant or a personal crisis, and it’s best to put off any major decisions for the time being.
An honest conversation with yourself, or with a coach, will help you decide whether retraining is the solution or whether another course of action would be more suitable for your situation.
How Nieuwkans helps with retraining and career choices
Are you unsure whether a career change is the right move, or do you already know you’re ready for a new direction but aren’t sure how to go about it? We’ll help you make informed, well-considered career choices that are truly right for you.
Through our programme sustainable employability for employees We offer personalised support that starts with you as an individual. What exactly does our service involve?
- Gain an understanding of your natural talents and cognitive behavioural preferences through scientifically proven methods, including the BrainsFirst approach.
- A personalised career consultation to explore which direction is realistic and suitable for you.
- Personalised support, tailored to your situation, pace and goals.
- An understanding of the labour market, so that your choice is not only personally meaningful, but also future-proof.
We believe that everyone can shape their own future. Whether you’re thinking about retraining, want to explore a new direction, or simply want to get the most out of yourself in your current role: we’re here to support you. Contact us and find out what we can do for you together.