Career Change Readiness Check
A structured 20-question assessment across four dimensions of career change readiness: motivation and clarity, transferable skills, practical preparation, and support systems.
Purpose: Ibarra's research on career reinvention shows that most career transitions fail not because the person lacks capability, but because they underestimate the practical and psychological groundwork required. This assessment evaluates your readiness across four dimensions: motivation, transferable skills, practical preparation, and support systems. You get a clear picture of what is in place and what needs strengthening before you make a move.
Instructions: For each statement, rate how true it is for you right now from 1 (not at all true) to 5 (completely true). Be honest about your current position, not your ideal position.
1.Motivation & Clarity
How clear and grounded your reasons for changing are. Strong motivation clarity means you are moving towards something compelling, not just away from something difficult.
I am clear about what I want to move towards, not just what I want to move away from
I have spent significant time reflecting on why I want to make this change
When I imagine myself in a new role or career in five years, the picture feels genuinely compelling
I can articulate my reason for changing career to someone else clearly and confidently
My desire to change has been consistent for at least three to six months, not just in difficult moments
2.Transferable Skills
How clearly you have mapped your existing skills to your target area and how much evidence you have built. Skill readiness is not just about having the skills — it is about knowing which skills transfer and being able to demonstrate them.
I can clearly identify skills and strengths from my current career that would be valuable in my target area
I have researched the skills required in my target role or field and understand the gap
I have taken concrete steps to develop the skills I need for the change
I have evidence I can point to that demonstrates my capability in my target area
People working in my target field have confirmed that my background is relevant and transferable
3.Practical Readiness
How well you have done the concrete groundwork: financial planning, market research, a realistic timeline, and direct contact with people in the field. Practical readiness separates serious career changers from those who are still in the wishful thinking phase.
I have a financial plan for the transition, including how long I can manage if my income drops
I have researched the market in my target area and understand the realistic opportunities available
I have a timeline with specific milestones for my career change, not just a vague intention
I have spoken with people who work in my target area and understand what the role involves day-to-day
My CV, LinkedIn profile, and professional narrative are being updated to reflect my new direction
4.Support & Resilience
How well supported you are — both by people who can help you make the transition and by your own capacity to handle setbacks. Career change is rarely linear; resilience and a strong support network are often the deciding factors.
I have people in my life who understand and actively support my decision to change career
I have at least one or two connections in my target field who are willing to help me
I can manage the uncertainty and discomfort that comes with being a beginner in a new field
I have dealt with setbacks before and found ways to keep going despite them
My partner, family, or close friends are broadly supportive of the practical implications of this change