Transitioning in the workplace is an inevitable aspect of the professional life of employees. Every employee experiences a form of work transition as they continue to grow and make advancements. Sometimes, it may be just as little as changing a job role.
However, transitioning covers different aspects, from simple job role transitions to major career shifts. According to the working center website, “Job transition is a major life change, particularly if you have worked at one job for an extended period, or if that job is significant to your lifestyle”
Although transitioning may encourage career growth, it can be a challenging period, especially if this transition is because of a job loss.
Hence, changes accompanied by a workplace transition can be stressful and oftentimes difficult at the initial phase, hence, understanding and anticipating these chances and careful preparation are crucial for a smooth transition for both employees and employers alike.
In this article, we discuss the meaning of transition in the workplace, and the various types of workplace transitions. Focusing on how to manage the different levels of transitions effectively, and, lastly, we discuss the importance of having a well-structured transition plan.
What Does Transition Mean in the Workplace?
Transition in the workplace occurs when an employee starts to perform a different role within the organization they are employed or starts an entirely different role with other companies.
Also, according to the website Boulo Solutions, transition in the workplace often refers to a period of change or transformation of positions that occurs within an organization
Workplace transition covers a broader aspect than simply switching jobs. It refers to any significant shift in your professional environment, responsibilities, or relationships.
This can include an Internal Shift, that may require you to take on a new role within your company, receive a promotion, change teams, or adapt to new technologies or processes.
It could also be because of external movements such as starting a new job, returning from leave, transitioning from freelance to full-time employment, or managing mergers and acquisitions.
More so, workplace transition can be because of some personal changes: Balancing career and personal responsibilities like childcare, eldercare, or health concerns.
Additionally, employers may be the major instigators of transition in the workplace when there is either a promotion or layoff, expansion in company operation, or shrinking of duties to accommodate changes.
Types of Workplace Transition
As an employee, what shows the progression of your career is how much you have to adjust as you ascend the corporate ladder. Employees face different stages of transition. While some happen spontaneously, others happen when you least expect.
Therefore, knowing the different forms of work transition is important so you can measure your career growth.
Below are common workplace transitions besides the three already mentioned:
1. Job Role Transition:
Job role transition happens when you move from one position to another within the same organization, often because of a change in responsibilities and duties in your workplace
2. Career Transition:
This happens when an employee makes a broader shift, possibly changing industries, professions, or even pursuing entrepreneurial endeavors.
3. Promotion Transition
You may be transferred or promoted to a higher position within the same organization. Such positions often lead to an increase or change in job role with more or less task responsibility and of course, most times, it comes with a change in job scope.
4. Demotion Transition
Demotion happens in organizations for different reasons. When this happens, the organization may either decide to hire a new replacement or move employers lower or higher to fill up the space.
Other factors that may lead to demotion transition could be because of the company restructuring or performance-related faction in factors.
5. Changing Working Hours Transition
Changes in career or interest or life challenges may require you to transition from a part-time to a full-time role or vice versa. In such situations, you may have to transition into a part-time or even remote worker.
Oftentimes, becoming a new parent is the obvious reason most female workers change working hours to accommodate their new status. This is considered workplace transition because it would you to adjust to incorporate work and personal activities if you are transitioning into a part-time role, for instance.
6. Departmental Transition
When there is a need for expansion or deficiency in some department in the workplace, the company can decide to move or shift employees from another department to fill up the space or gap within the same organization.
Other types of workplace transition include:
- Company Merger or Acquisition Transition:
- Industry Transition
- Freelancing to Full-Time Employment Transition:
- Leadership Transition:
- How do you handle work transitions?
10 Proven Tips for Transitioning in the Workplace (Especially into a New Industry)
Transitioning into a new industry is often a challenging task for most employees. It’s challenging to adjust fully to the new system. The stress accumulated in the process of a transition can affect the productivity and performance of the employer, which could affect the quality of work and success of a team.
Moreover, there are strategies you could employ to help you navigate a stressful transition. Besides the points mentioned below, prioritizing self-care, and seeking support from colleagues or friends are excellent strategies to help you collect yourself.
In this section, we outlined 10 proven steps to help prepare for a work transition even if it is a new industry.
1. StudyKnow and Understand the Industry
Job transition is a major change in your career and if you are moving into a new industry, you must take the time to research trends and facts. Immerse yourself in the new industry. Know what works and what does, and understand its key players, trends, jargon, and common practices.
While this industry provides room for career growth and development? How can I get started in this industry? Who is the key player and can I access them? These are some key questions you must answer to get yourself prepared ahead of time.
2. Seek Mentorship or Coach Relationships
Building relevant networking relationships with expert professionals in the industry you intend to transition into will help you gather more knowledge about what to expect and what works. Seeking mentors or getting a coach in your new industry can help you to be better positioned in your new role, attaching excellence and a seamless transition.
3. Request to Shadow an Expert
Undertaking shadowing an expert in your new industry is a good way to gain experience in the field while finding your way around the company. However, to do this, you should know someone in the industry who would let you stand in when there is another task to be taken.
4. Know and utilize Transferable Skills
Before you make your moves, consider analyzing your existing skills so can be used in your new role even if not directly related. If possible, carry out an objective test to see how efficient you are with these skills. Most companies appreciate candidates with transferable skills like problem-solving, time management, and data analytics, as this would contribute to an efficient workflow system.
5. Attend Webinars and networking events
One good way to access direct information about your new industry or job role is by making yourself available for events free or paid webinars or events organized by industrial leaders in your niche. This exposes you to networking opportunities that could change your entire transition story.
6. Update your Resume and Portfolio
Some employers only prepare mentally for work transitions, neglecting the need to update their resume. This is a major factor to consider because it helps you position yourself better for the job market. Therefore, ensure you tailor your resume and portfolio to the new industry you are transitioning to emphasize your relevant skills and experience, using keywords from job descriptions. More so, create a portfolio that displays your work that speaks to the new industry’s needs.
A further addition to this list:
- Build your network
- Embrace continuous learning
- Onboarding and Adaptation:
- Build relationships with colleagues
Conclusion
workplace transition is not always as easy as it seems, it is a daunting process. You move from one role, company, or stage (A) to another (B). It can be taking on new responsibilities, switching jobs, adapting to changes, or even coming back from leave or retirement.
Hence, It’s not always smooth, plus it comes with a lot of stress. However, with adequate planning, learning, and support from friends, you can transition successfully to your new role with less stress than imagined.
In this article, we outlined proven tips to help you transition, even into a different industry with less. We hope this guide helps you achieve your career growth.
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Reference
- Theworkingcentre.org
- Hrdconnect.com
- uk.indeed.com
