Top tips to build yourself a second career

It is not uncommon to have thoughts about a second career. If assessed, it is a productive move. Two careers result in more money and better financial security. It is also an opportunity to pursue your hobbies. Example – a lawyer who is also a musician or a financial advisor who teaches. If executed properly, having two careers is like living the dream. However, it is a big if.

There are plenty of second career options, from full-time professions to part-time second jobs. One should pick a second career after considering certain factors such as experience, finance, networking, career insurance and more.

Here are some professional tips to help you make a better decision.

1.Identify your niche

Having a specialisation under your belt is crucial. It defines you and places you within a unique circle of people. For instance, a chef that specialises in pastry or Korean cuisine is an added advantage to a hotel or restaurant.

Example:

Say you are in finance, and as your second career you want to pursue writing. Try choosing finance as your expertise rather than war coverage or films.

If you have a niche you are familiar with, as your second career option, success becomes even more achievable. Also, many discover their niche later in their career, but if you can pick one early on, you have more time to perfect it.

2. Get online

Having an online presence today is vital. Even social media platforms are a great source for professional networking and building your portfolio. Especially, if you want to be a creative professional in your second career, being online is mandatory.

Make sure to share your opinions and ask questions online. There are platforms such as Quora where like-minded individuals and brands share expertise and communicate. Do spend time on such platforms.

3. Get experience (even a little matters)

On-the-job experience is the best kind you can get. No amount of books can compare to first-hand experience. Try starting with part-time second jobs to test the water and once you are confident, pursue your second career in full-force.

Also, being on the job can help you build your resume and add to your experience..

4. Decorate your house

Your second career could be starting your own business. If that is the case, you need to be financially secure. Start planning early, reduce your expenses, save and invest. Every penny counts, so pre-plan your goal and work towards it. Example: your aim could be to start a business in the next 5 years. But 5 years is a long time and things get expensive. So your million today could be worth less, a few years down the line because of inflation.

Hence plan thoroughly for the future.

5. Have a back-up

Always keep your second career as a backup. Do not risk your future unless the field guarantees you a good income. Also, when planning for your second career remember to have another backup in place if things go wrong. Consider securing your life with an insurance policy to ensure that your loved ones are being taken care of should something happen to you. Also, you can secure yourself with standalone health policies like a cancer insurance policy in case you fall prey to the deadly disease.

Remember to carefully choose your second career options, as it can be the one that you may rely on in case your primary income stops. Also, ensure that the career should not intrude on your primary career and affect your productivity or your growth.