Discover your 'why', explore your options, and consider where seasonal jobs can fit into your career plan.
Even thinking about changing careers can be exciting — and a bit overwhelming. Maybe you’re curious about a new industry. Maybe your current job no longer fits your life. Or maybe you’re feeling stuck and wondering what’s next.
Whatever your reasons, you’re not alone. Many people reach a point where they want something different but aren’t sure where to start. The good news? A career change doesn’t have to be one big leap. It can start with smart, manageable steps, including temporary or seasonal work.
Here’s how to move forward with confidence and use short-term roles to help you explore what’s right for you.
Start by Understanding Your “Why”
Before changing careers, it helps to pause and ask: Why do I want something different?
Your reason might be practical, like better pay, steadier hours, or more flexibility. Or it might be personal — wanting work you enjoy more or that better fits your life today. Whatever your answer, knowing your “why” helps you make clearer choices.
Try asking yourself:
- What do I enjoy about my current job?
- What drains my energy?
- What do I want more (or less) of in my workday?
- What do I really enjoy doing?
Your answers don’t need to be perfect. They’re simply guideposts to help you move in the right direction.
Recognize the Skills You Already Have
Career changes can feel intimidating because people think they have to start over. In reality, most jobs build on skills you already use every day.
These so-called “soft” skills are valuable in most any industry:
- Communication
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Teamwork
- Organization
- Customer service
These abilities are universal and transferable. Employers rely on them to keep teams productive, customers satisfied and work moving forward. Examples? Retail experience requires strong customer service and problem-solving skills which can translate into sales, logistics or operations roles. Administrative roles rely on organizational and communication skills, which can open doors in healthcare, manufacturing or office support.
These skills matter — and employers are looking for them.
Learn what Manpower recruiters say about the importance of soft skills.
Explore Temp or Seasonal Jobs
One of the biggest advantages of temporary or seasonal work is the chance to try something new without long-term pressure. This is a great strategy if you want to follow your passion and sample a completely different industry or role.
Short-term seasonal jobs allow you to:
- Test a new industry or role
- Build experience fast
- Learn new skills on the job
- Earn income while exploring next steps
- Decide what you like — and just as importantly — what you don’t
Here are some industries that typically hire seasonal workers:
- Hospitality and Tourism: Many seasonal jobs are available in hotels, resorts and restaurants, both during the summer and over the holidays. If you’re interested in joining this industry, this can be an easy way to try it out.
- Agricultural or Gardening Work: Interested in starting your own gardening, lawn maintenance or farmstand business? There are many opportunities to roll up your sleeves and dig into the day-to-day reality with a seasonal job at a farmers’ market, farm, nursery or lawn service.
- Retail Positions: The perfect time to start a career in the retail industry is around the holidays. Retailers frequently ramp up hiring during the holiday shopping season. Both customer-facing roles and warehouse jobs are usually available.
- Recreation and Events: This could be your first stop on the way to an event planning, coaching or teaching career. Seasonal jobs in this category include working at amusement parks, summer camps, and community events.
Think of temp or seasonal work as a career test drive. Many people discover unexpected strengths — or find a role they never planned but end up loving. And this test drive could be the first stop on your new career roadmap.
Keep Learning as You Go
You don’t need to go back to school right away to change careers. Learning can happen in many forms.
You might:
- Take a short online course
- Watch free training videos
- Learn new skills through temp assignments
- Pick up certifications offered through employers
Temporary work often provides hands-on learning that no class can replace. Showing employers that you’re willing to learn and adapt can be just as valuable as formal credentials.
Set Realistic, Encouraging Goals
Big career goals are exciting, but progress happens step by step. Break your plan into smaller, achievable actions.
Simple goals might include:
- Updating your resume
- Applying to one or two new roles a week
- Trying one temp assignment
- Talking to a recruiter
- Attending a job fair
Every step forward counts. Celebrate the small wins — they’re proof that you’re moving in the right direction.
Tell Your Story with Confidence
Your career journey matters. When applying for jobs, don’t focus only on job titles: focus on what you’ve learned and where you’re headed.
Update your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect:
- Skills you use
- Experience from temporary, seasonal or volunteer work
- The type of roles you’re interested in next
Employers value people who are adaptable, motivated and willing to grow. Your story should show exactly that.
Build Connections Along the Way
Career changes aren’t just about submitting applications, they’re also about building relationships.
Talk to coworkers on assignments. Ask questions. Learn how others got started. A short-term role can lead to references, recommendations or even full-time opportunities.
Changing Careers with Manpower: Take the Next Step
A career change doesn’t happen overnight. It happens through curiosity, action and a willingness to try something new.
Temporary and seasonal work can help you explore your options, gain experience, and move forward with less risk and more confidence. You don’t have to have everything figured out. You just have to start.
We Can Help
Manpower is here to help. Create a profile, explore open roles, and apply to jobs that fit where you are now — and where you want to go. Your next opportunity might be closer than you think.
