Career change: Opportunities, challenges and success factors

Date
Written by
Emily Finke
Reading time
5 min.
Knowledge
The job market is changing rapidly—and with it, career paths. The classic résumé with a linear career progression is no longer the norm. More and more professionals and companies are discovering career changing as an opportunity: for new perspectives, fresh ideas, and professional development.
At splendid learning, several team members work successfully as career changers—and prove that taking a path outside typical career tracks is not only possible, but can be a benefit for everyone involved.
What does career changing actually mean?
Career changing describes moving into a new professional field without having completed traditional training or a degree in that area. Instead, career changers bring experience and skills from other industries—and continue developing in their new field through targeted further education and practical experience.
Especially in dynamic industries such as digital learning, web design, social media, and IT, career changing is not the exception, but often the norm.
Applicant perspective: Getting started successfully as a career changer
A career change is a bold step—but with the right preparation, it can be very successful.
5 tips for a successful career change
Identify transferable skills – Which competencies from your previous profession can be transferred to the new field?
Use further education opportunities – Courses, certificates, and practical training help build expertise.
Activate your network – Contacts can open doors, provide recommendations, and connect you with opportunities.
Show flexibility & willingness to learn – An open attitude and adaptability are crucial.
Tailor your application for a career change – Clearly highlight motivation, willingness to learn, and relevant skills.
Examples from the splendid learning team
Jacqueline is brand new to the team. She switched from retail, where she worked as a department manager, to splendid learning in e-learning design.
Emily studied Communication & Event Management and started at splendid learning as a communication designer. She now works on websites, e-learning projects, and social media.
Luca started as a retail salesperson, completed advanced commercial training, and managed departments in a fashion store—today he works in web design & frontend development.
These examples show: With the right skills and the right support, a career change is not only feasible, but also a great enrichment.
Company perspective: Successfully integrating career changers
Why career changers are an asset
New perspectives and creative approaches
Soft skills such as customer orientation, team leadership, and organization
Motivation to familiarize themselves with new topics
Success factors in integration
Structured onboarding with clear processes
Individual development plans (e.g., technical training)
Open company culture that welcomes diversity
At splendid learning, we rely precisely on these elements—and benefit from the diverse experiences of our career changers.
Opportunities and challenges
Opportunities:
Fresh ideas and impulses
Greater flexibility within the team
Strengthening company culture through diversity
Challenges:
Higher onboarding effort
Possible knowledge gaps in specialized topics
Solution: Clear structures, mentoring, and regular feedback
Conclusion: Career changing as a win-win
Career changing is no longer an exception—it is an opportunity. For applicants who want to reorient their careers. For companies seeking fresh know-how and new ways of thinking.
At splendid learning, we see career changing as an enrichment: Our team thrives on different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.



