When Abel Mutsinzi decided to switch careers from logistics to consultancy early this year, it did not come as easy as was imagined at the start. He faced challenges ranging from the fear of not making it to limited experience, uncertainty of markets, as well as inadequate connections with people that would support him in his new career. His new company AM Loyal Consultants Limited was met with tests including high competition from the already existing firms, but he did not give up on his new project. Today, he takes pleasure in having increased demand for his services, and being able to change from being a salary earner to a profit-maker. Just like him, many people take interest in shifting from one career to another, but due to challenges they end up failing to take the step. On the other hand, some that decide to shift are faced with turbulence since they are not so sure about what to do. As one who has been there before, Mutsinzi advises that when making a career shift, one of the important things is “understanding your potential relevance to the market you are joining.” So, the shift shouldn’t just be for the sake of it. It should be backed by some logic and planning. Amos Byamukama an organizational and development law consultant with a good knowledge of the Rwandan labour market urges for wise steps before making the shift. These steps may include a look into the government policy for the labour market; in addition to a good assessment on the new career to make sure it resonates with one’s values and interests. Simon Kibe, an independent human resource consultant in Kigali advises on the factors for making a career shift. “A shift can happen when a current career is projected to diminish in value or be done away with. A Secretary career is one that has been slowly done away with as a result of technology. If your career is in danger of being overtaken by change, it’s time to look elsewhere,” he says. In addition, he says shifts should also be pushed by the need to learn. “If you are in a job where no learning is happening, you will begin to become worse,” he says. “Although money is important, growth needs to be a key consideration. There are many ways of growing: you can have a job that grows you, or you can use the money you get to study. Either way you are growing,” he adds. Finally, he says people should take into account their life goals when taking a shift.
