How can cross-functional team leaders prepare for a career change?

1 Assess your strengths and interests

Before you start looking for a new career, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to do, and what you are good at. As a cross-functional team leader, you have developed a range of skills, such as communication, problem-solving, leadership, and adaptability, that can be applied to many fields and roles. However, you also need to consider your interests, values, and goals, and how they align with your potential career options. You can use self-assessment tools, such as personality tests, skills inventories, or career quizzes, to help you identify your preferences and motivations.

2 Research your target market

Once you have a shortlist of possible careers that match your strengths and interests, you need to do some research on the market demand, trends, and opportunities for those careers. You can use online platforms, such as LinkedIn, Glassdoor, or Indeed, to find out the typical qualifications, skills, and experience required for your desired roles, as well as the salary range, benefits, and work environment. You can also network with people who work in those fields, and ask them for advice, insights, and referrals. You may also want to explore alternative or emerging career paths that leverage your cross-functional expertise, such as project management, business analysis, or consulting.

3 Update your resume and portfolio

To make a good impression on potential employers, you need to update your resume and portfolio to highlight your relevant skills and achievements for your new career. You may need to tailor your resume and portfolio for each job application, depending on the specific requirements and expectations of the role. You should also emphasize your cross-functional experience, and how it has helped you deliver results, overcome challenges, and collaborate with diverse teams. You can use keywords, metrics, and examples to showcase your value proposition and fit for the position.

4 Expand your learning and development

To increase your chances of landing your new career, you may need to acquire new knowledge and skills, or refresh your existing ones. You can enroll in online courses, workshops, or certifications that can help you fill the gaps in your qualifications, or demonstrate your competence and credibility. You can also seek mentorship, coaching, or feedback from experts or peers who can guide you through your learning and development journey. You should also keep up with the latest trends and best practices in your target industry or field, and stay updated on the challenges and opportunities that may arise.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?