Thinking About a Career Pivot? Start With These 3 People

Between a slower job market and the growing impact of AI on certain roles and industries, a lot of people are considering some kind of career pivot right now.

Some are exploring entirely new fields. Others are trying to move into a similar role in a more stable industry—or shift into a different role within the one they’re already in.

No matter the specifics, making a career change is not a small undertaking. You’re researching roles and trying to connect the dots between where you’ve been and where you want to go. You're noodling over how to present yourself in a way that makes sense to a different audience.

You may even be feeling a bit stuck on where to begin.

This is where bringing a few of the right people into the process can make things a lot easier.

You may be trying to figure this out alongside a full-time job—or navigating an active job search that’s starting to feel urgent. Either way, you don't have likely unlimited time (or energy!) to network all week long.

The good news: you don’t need to become an all-out networking machine. You just need to be intentional about who you network with. Here are the three people I'd put at the top of your list:

➨ 1. People Who Will Always Have Your Back

Even if this process feels isolating, you surely have people in your world who are firmly in your corner. Friends. Former colleagues. Mentors. Family members.

The ones who want to see you succeed.

Bring them into the fold.

You don’t have to broadcast your plans to everyone—especially if you’re currently employed and being careful about who you share your plans with—but your inner circle should know what you’re working toward.

And here’s the part most people miss: be specific about how they can help.

“Could you keep an eye out for me?” is too vague.

Instead, try:

• “If you hear of teams hiring junior product managers, I’d love a heads up”
• “Would you be open to introducing me to anyone you know in [industry]?”
• “Could I run my resume by you to make sure this pivot makes sense?”

When you give people a clear way to support you, they’re much more likely to follow through.

➨ 2. People Who Are Doing the Work You Want to Be Doing

In any given market, there are people who are already doing the kind of work you’re trying to move into.

Find them. Pay attention to how they describe their work, what they emphasize, and how they got there. And then, yes, reach out.

Not with a big ask. Not with a long backstory. Just a short, thoughtful note that:

• Acknowledges something specific about their work
• Briefly explains why you’re reaching out
• Asks for something small and reasonable

For example: “I came across your work on [project/company/team] and really appreciated how you described [specific thing]. I’m currently exploring a transition into [field], and your profile caught my attention. Would you be open to me asking you a couple of quick questions about your experience?”

That’s it.

You’re not asking for a job. You’re starting a conversation. At best, this can open doors you didn’t even know were there. At a minimum, you’ll learn things that will help you position yourself more effectively.

➨ 3. People Who Have Made a Similar Pivot

There is almost always someone who has made a move similar to the one you’re considering, even if your goal feels unconventional. Find them.

LinkedIn is particularly useful here. Look for people who started where you are and are now where you want to be. (Think, find the former teacher who is now an account manager for an EdTech firm.) These are some of the most helpful conversations you can have. Pivoters who have pulled off a similar transition as the one you're considering can help you:

• Think through your approach
• Spot gaps you may not see yet
• Avoid common missteps
• Identify opportunities you hadn’t considered

And again, the approach matters. Lead with curiosity. Keep the ask light. Respect their time. You’re not asking them to map out your entire transition—you’re asking for perspective.

Final thought

If you’re thinking of a career pivot, but feeling stuck on where to begin, start here.

You don't need a full plan right away. You don't need a perfectly reworked resume yet. Start by bringing a few of the right people into the conversation.

That alone can give you direction, momentum, and a much clearer sense of what to do next.

Thanks for reading Steer Your Career. If you’d like more support, head over to JobJenny.com and hit the "Work with Us" tab. I also encourage you to:

1. Take a Deeper Dive on Career Pivots

If you're ready to get serious about a career change, download a copy of How to Make a Career Pivot, our step-by-step ebook that'll help you cook up an overall game plan then activate. The guide is normally $39. Save $15 by using promo code SYCPIVOT at checkout.

2. Check out my LinkedIn Learning Courses

I’ve got 13 courses (and one in progress!) covering everything from planning and organizing a job search, writing powerful resumes and cover letters, and interviewing effectively. Premium members can access them all, and I’ve opened up two free ones for everyone: Resume Makeover and Become a Thought Leader & Advance Your Career.

3. Level Up Your LinkedIn Photo (for as little as $29)

Ready to elevate or update your LinkedIn headshot, but don’t want to spend the time or money on a pro photographer? HeadshotPro has you covered. This AI tool generates dozens of polished, professional shots for as little as $29. I tested it myself and ended up with plenty of great options (plus a few hilarious outtakes), and it worked out to less than $3 per keeper. Definitely worth a try if your profile pic could use an upgrade.

Note that some of the links within this newsletter are affiliate links, meaning — we will earn a small commission for referring you. We only recommend products and services we feel will be genuinely useful and from providers we know and trust.