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The Art of the Career Pivot: How to Change Direction Without Derailing Your STEM Career (Part 1)

Writer's picture: Linda MacelovaLinda Macelova

Updated: Oct 19, 2024

Hey there, STEMinist! Ever feel like your career trajectory is more of a meander than a march to the top? You're not alone. The world of work is a dynamic beast, and sometimes, the skills you honed years ago just don't align with your current aspirations. That's where the art of the pivot comes in.

What is Pivoting, Anyway?


A classy woman carefully planning career pivot strategy

Think of a career pivot as a strategic shift in your career direction. It's not a complete overhaul (though sometimes it can be!), but rather a calculated move that leverages your existing skills and experience to propel you towards a more fulfilling professional path.

Challenges Faced by Women in STEM When Career Pivoting

Pivoting can be daunting, especially for women in STEM. We've often spent years climbing the ladder in a specific field, and the thought of starting anew can be paralyzing. Here are some of the roadblocks you might encounter:

The Power of the Pivot: Why It's a Good Thing

But here's the thing: pivoting can be incredibly empowering. Here's why:

  • Increased Job Satisfaction: Stuck in a soul-crushing job? A pivot can lead you to a career that ignites your passion and utilizes your talents in a way that feels meaningful.

  • New Opportunities: The world of work is constantly evolving, and new opportunities are emerging all the time. A pivot can open doors to exciting fields you might not have considered before.

  • Personal Growth: Stepping outside your comfort zone is a recipe for growth. A pivot can push you to develop new skills, learn new things, and become a more well-rounded professional.

Finding Your Perfect Pivot: Aligning Skills, Interests, and Values

So, you're ready to pivot, but where do you even begin? Here are some tips:

  • Self-Reflection is Your BFF: Take a deep dive into your strengths, weaknesses, interests, and values. What are you good at? What gets you excited? What kind of impact do you want to make?

  • Career Assessments Can Be Your Compass: These tools can help you identify your personality type, work preferences, and potential career paths that align with your unique profile.

Crafting Your Pivot Narrative: It's All About Transferable Skills

Once you have a target in sight, it's time to craft a compelling narrative that showcases your suitability for the new path. Here's the secret weapon: transferable skills. These are the skills you've developed throughout your career that can be applied across different fields.

Think about it: problem-solving, analytical thinking, communication skills – these are all valuable assets, regardless of the specific industry. Highlight them in your resume and cover letter and during interviews.

This is Just the Beginning: Stay Tuned for Part 2!

We've covered a lot, but there's still more to explore! In Part 2 of this series, we'll delve into building a solid network to support your pivot journey. We'll also discuss strategies for overcoming obstacles and share inspiring stories of women in STEM who successfully pivoted their careers.

Ready to Embrace the Pivot?


Linda Macelova : The career pivot strategist

Remember, pivoting isn't a sign of weakness; it's a sign of courage and self-awareness. It's about taking control of your career and steering it towards a place of fulfilment and growth.


Feeling stuck and unsure of where to start? Don't let a limited mindset hold you back. Linda Macelova Consulting offers career coaching services designed to empower women in STEM to rewire the limiting beliefs that hinder their progress. We can help you identify your ideal pivot, craft a compelling narrative, and build the confidence you need to thrive in your new career.

Book a free strategy session with Linda Macelova Consulting today and take the first step towards a more fulfilling future. Let's rewrite your career story together, one strategic pivot at a time.


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