How to learn a new profession without wasting money and time

1. Highlight your strengths

Think about how you can apply experience and knowledge from a previous job. Ideally, you need to choose an adjacent area. For example, if you have worked as an accountant all your life, you can retrain as a financial analyst. And if you are a doctor, get a job at a company that makes medical applications.

Consider not only work experience, but also your interests and qualities of character. For example, if you like to communicate with people, it is not necessary to become a programmer - you can go to IT as a sales specialist or business analyst. Constantly repair and make something - try repairing appliances or making furniture. Homemade praising your pastries - sign up for pastry chef courses. Many hobbies can earn good money.

2. Analyze the labor market

It's a shame to spend several years studying, and then find out that the profession is not in demand. Immediately check whether there are many vacancies on job search sites and whether companies are ready to take on newcomers. For example, in IT, young specialists can often be hired, but internships and additional training may be required. If it's scary to jump headlong into a new career, look for small commissions to fill your hand. Many copywriters start at job exchanges - they pay a little there, but you can replenish your portfolio. And if you want to become a manicurist, first invite your friends to it. This is how you hone your skills and attract your first clients - many people choose a specialist based on the recommendations of their friends.

3. Choose a profession that does not require much training

For some professions, you need to study at a university and get a diploma. But this option is not suitable for everyone. For example, a person who already has a higher education sometimes finds it difficult to study a few more years to start a new career. In this case, it is worth considering short-term courses and already in the process of looking for a job.

Some professions can be mastered on your own or at minimal cost. You can understand marketing, learn how to manage social networks or make cool website design with the help of videos on the Internet. And sometimes online schools provide access to introductory courses for a subscription or for free - start with them to see if your chosen profession is interesting for you.

4. Make a plan of action

A plan will allow you to focus on specific goals and overcome difficulties more easily, because you will know what you are doing and why. Identify the skills you need to improve and consider how much time and money you will need. For example, many professions require English. You can study on your own - it's cheaper, but you will need to look for the material yourself and observe strict discipline. Hiring a tutor is easier - he already has lessons learned. But you have to spend more money.

Be realistic about your strengths. If you plan to combine work and courses, it will be difficult to devote 5-6 hours a day to studying. Sometimes it's better to schedule more time for retraining but avoid burnout. Be aware that the plan is subject to change. For example, in the process of learning, you will realize that you need to tighten up a skill that you have not thought about before.

5. Find like-minded people

Get to know those who are already working in the field you are interested in. If you want to work in IT, visit the developer forums and participate in the creation of projects. This will allow you to upgrade your skills and communicate with specialists who may recommend you to their company. And if you dream of a career as a photographer, look for a professional who is ready to work in tandem with a beginner. For example, sometimes two specialists are hired for a wedding at once, who film the event from different angles. Working with a more experienced colleague is a great chance to learn more about the industry.

Feel free to express yourself. Tell us on social media that you are ready to start a new career and describe your skills. Sometimes even a person who is not related to your field may know someone who will offer a dream job.

6. Look for ways to save

You don't have to buy the most expensive appliances right away to start a podcast or start making custom furniture. Look for a used one - so you can hone your skills and see if you are ready to develop in this area.

Watch lectures on open resources, subscribe to social networks of specialists in your field and read specialized literature. The more you learn about a new profession from different sources, the better. Participate in projects for free. For example, if you are studying to be a web designer, ask a friend to make a website for them. So you will not only practice on a real project, but also fill out a portfolio.