pepelwerk blog

Changing Careers? Build Habits That Set You Up for Your Next Job.

Written by Alex | 7/31/25 7:44 PM

Whether you’ve lost your job due to federal layoffs, feel stuck in your current role or are simply ready for a fresh start, changing careers can feel overwhelming. But building the right habits can make your career transition smoother, faster and more fulfilling—especially when you’re using the best upskilling platforms and tools that help you grow.

With career transition services like pepelwerk, you can take control of your next move and focus on learning, goal setting and getting matched to jobs for career changers. Whether you're changing careers at 30 or 40, the habits you develop now will shape how quickly you find your footing and feel confident in your next step.

Start by Setting Clear Career Goals for the Field You Want to Switch To

It’s easy to say you want a new job—but what kind? And in what industry? Do you want to earn more or prioritize flexibility? Start your career shift by setting a clear goal job. When you use pepelwerk’s AI Career Assistant, you’ll be prompted to define that goal and receive a personalized learning plan based on the skills you already have and the ones you’ll need to move forward.

Goal setting helps eliminate the distractions and second-guessing that often stall people in transition. By updating your goal regularly and tweaking your plan as you learn and gain experience, you’ll build momentum and stay accountable to your progress.

Don’t Wait for a Layoff—Plan Your Career Comeback with pepelwerk


Build a Learning Habit That Works for You

One of the best things you can do when changing careers is to embrace continuous learning. But don’t just sign up for a course and let it collect dust. Learning should become a habit that fits into your lifestyle. That could mean checking in with your AI Career Assistant every morning before work or spending one hour a week on a new skill module that moves you closer to your next opportunity.

If you're wondering how to start a new career, remember that preparing doesn’t always mean going back to school. pepelwerk’s Work Hub connects you with training for career change that’s based on actual employer demand—not outdated job boards. So every minute you spend upskilling is aligned with your future income.

Use Career Coaches to Break Through and Find a New Career

If you’re struggling with confidence or unsure how your experience translates into a new industry, now’s the time to get a career coach. Coaches aren’t just for new grads—they’re critical guides for people looking to pivot their path and find the right way forward. They can help you explore jobs for career changers, review your attributes and suggest roles that better match your values and strengths.

With a monthly or preferred pepelwerk membership, you get discounts on coaching or even one free session per year. That extra support can be the difference between jumping to just another job or building a future you actually want.

Create a Routine That Supports Transition

Habits thrive in structure. If you’re dealing with uncertainty after a layoff or looking for a career that better suits your life stage, structure can give you the stability you need. Block time each week to check progress in your pepelwerk account, update your profile with new skills and apply to matched roles. Make it a part of your routine, just like checking your bank account or going to the gym.

When you're transitioning, motivation can waver. But sticking to a routine ensures that your career momentum doesn’t get lost. This is especially important for people changing careers at 40 who might be balancing family, finances or other life transitions.

Your Next Career Starts with a Habit

Changing careers doesn’t have to mean starting from scratch. With the right tools and habits, you can build on your strengths, explore new possibilities and land a role that works for who you are now, not who you used to be.

pepelwerk makes it easier to stay productive and focused during a career change, whether you're dealing with federal layoffs or just ready for something new. Our Work Hub and Career Services were designed for real life, not outdated systems or random job boards.

Here’s how to start building habits that lead to a new job:

  1. Create a pepelwerk account and set your goal job.
  2. Activate your AI Career Assistant to track your progress.
  3. Enroll in training that matches employer needs.
  4. Work with a coach to build confidence and strategy.
  5. Apply only to jobs that match your attributes and goals.

Monthly and preferred memberships give you access to priority tools, coaching discounts and automatic matching to work readiness goals. If you're changing careers, don't just guess—get started with the platform that helps you stay productive and make progress every day.