Career Transition Phases

The career transition process consists of multiple layers of considerations. There is no actual linear process. However I will describe four phases that most people experience throughout their transition. These phases are linked to the cycles of change. Some phases may be accelerated by a sudden loss of a job. During these times, there can be heightened feelings of upheaval. Typically this is because the individual is not in control of the decision to make a career change. Perhaps the decision was made without their consent, as is the case with lay offs, mergers or bankruptcies.

Consider these four phases of career transition when you are making a change or supporting others during their transition process:

Orientation Phase
Is it time to make a change? Signs may be appearing, however that does not mean we are ready. Some of us may resist the change, others experience confusion or deny that a change is impeding. Many believe the worst of these signs is denial. Just remember each of these experiences, whether it is resistance, denial, withdrawal, or elation is a natural part of the process. Judging these as good or bad makes it more challenging to accept in order to progress.

This phase requires an inventory of an individual’s resources. It is important people base their confidence within their assets, such as their physical, emotional, intellectual, creative, value-based and/or spiritual resources. Focusing on the individual’s inventory of strengths allows the person to review their current work, career reality and recognize what is taking place with greater clarity. Additionally, this also gives one confidence for how the departure will occur.


Departure Phase
This phase initiates actions that answers yes to the question: Is it time to make a change? In most cases this phase means letting go of the parts of our identity that is wrapped up in our place of employment, title, colleagues, clients, and even the work itself. It’s a letting go phase that can be conducted gracefully without making anyone or even the organization the culprit or a reason for making the decision to move on.

The Departure Phase lends itself well to being able to envision the adventure of exploring new opportunities. It lets you imagine yourself able and equipped to deliver your expertise or knowledge elsewhere. Once the decision has been made to depart, it is natural to second-guess yourself, and even have moments when fear creeps into the picture.


Expedition Phase
This phase focuses on the exploration of new opportunities and meeting new people. For some, this phase is invigorating and for others terrifying. This is often linked to communication style differences as well as the confidence or a lack of confidence people have in their outside networks.

This phase states: “I will find and do…”

The most challenging and for some the most exciting part of this phase, is the unpredictable nature of the course of action. Opportunities present themselves, meeting new people, the competition for openings, interviewing, cold calling, networking meetings, assistance from strangers, rejection letters, returned calls not received reflect the various ups and downs of this process.

Support, believing in yourself and your personal resources mentioned in Orientation Phase is vital to staying consistently persistent.

Destination Phase
The ironic thing about the Destination Phase is that you will be experiencing multiple destinations during this phase. Remember to celebrate each destination. Include the minor ones as well as any major leaps forward. Finding your new position, a company that fits, a boss that matches your career development goals, and your first week on the job. These are all recognizable destinations connecting you to this phase.

Keep the attitude you gained from your confidence building resources mentioned in the Orientation Phase.

Remember: I did it and what’s next?