Career Change in 2026: A Data-Driven Playbook
Key Findings
- 71% apply outside their industry (MyPerfectResume, 2024)
- Entry-level positions declined 29% (Randstad, 2024)
- Career changers who network are 58% more likely to succeed (SHRM, 2025)
- Average salary increase for successful career changers is 12% (Glassdoor Economic Research, 2025)
How many people are changing careers in 2026?
In 2026, 71% of career changers apply outside their industry, with an average transition time of 11 months. This is according to a 2024 MyPerfectResume study and a 2025 report by Indeed Hiring Lab. These numbers illustrate the growing trend of cross-industry movement and the commitment required for successful transitions.
Industry Breakdown
A significant portion of career changers is moving into industries like tech and healthcare. The tech industry experienced a 34% increase in career changers, as reported by Zippia in 2025. Meanwhile, the healthcare sector reported a 27% rise in career switchers, according to Health eCareers in 2025. These sectors, with rapid growth and high demand for skills, are attracting talent from diverse fields.
Additionally, the finance sector sees 18% of its professionals changing careers annually, based on 2025 data from eFinancialCareers. This shift reflects the broader trend of professionals seeking roles that better align with emerging skill demands and personal preferences.
| Industry | Increase in Career Changers (%) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Tech | 34% | Zippia, 2025 |
| Healthcare | 27% | Health eCareers, 2025 |
| Finance | 18% | eFinancialCareers, 2025 |
| Nonprofit | 25% | Idealist, 2025 |
Demographic Trends
Demographic shifts further influence career changes. Pew Research in 2025 notes that 45% of workers are contemplating a career change. This consideration is particularly pronounced among younger workers, who often prioritize flexibility and alignment with personal values over traditional career trajectories. Additionally, the demand for remote work opportunities for career changers has grown by 40%, as reported by iCIMS in 2025, indicating a shift in work culture preferences.
The importance of transferable skills is underscored by LinkedIn's 2025 report, which found that 48% of career changers prioritize these over direct industry experience. Also, Jobvite's 2025 data suggests that 65% of recruiters value transferable skills over specific industry experience. The emphasis on adaptable competencies and the ability to cross traditional industry boundaries defines the current career scene.
Acknowledging these trends, companies are increasingly open to hiring career changers. According to the Conference Board in 2025, 70% of employers are open to considering candidates from different industries. This openness is likely a response to the shifting skill demands and the pressing need for talent equipped with diverse experiences.
What skills are most transferable when changing careers?
Transferable skills are prioritized by 48% of career changers, and 65% of recruiters value them over direct experience. A 2025 LinkedIn Skills Survey highlights the importance of these abilities across various professions.
Top transferable skills
Transferable skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and project management, are increasingly vital in the job market. Jobvite's 2025 survey reveals that 65% of recruiters favor these skills over direct experience, emphasizing their adaptability across industries. Also, McKinsey's 2025 report indicates a 15% rise in demand for digital skills, reflecting a broader trend towards technology-driven roles. As the job scene evolves, these skills remain essential for those seeking to transition between careers.
Skills by industry
Industry-specific demand for transferable skills varies, yet some remain universally valuable. The tech sector, where 34% more individuals are shifting careers, often requires strong analytical and technical skills, according to Zippia, 2025. Meanwhile, in healthcare, with a 27% increase in career switchers as per Health eCareers, 2025, skills like empathy and communication are important. As noted above, sectors such as finance and nonprofits also experience career transitions, with emphasis on skills pertinent to their specific demands.
| Industry | Key Transferable Skills | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Analytical, Digital Skills | McKinsey, 2025 |
| Healthcare | Communication, Empathy | Health eCareers, 2025 |
| Finance | Analytical, Problem-Solving | eFinancialCareers, 2025 |
| Nonprofit | Interpersonal, Leadership | Idealist, 2025 |
With 71% applying outside their industry, as noted above, the versatility of transferable skills is evident. Companies are increasingly open to hiring career changers, with 70% of employers expressing willingness according to Conference Board, 2025. This openness, combined with the previously cited demand for reskilling programs by 60% of companies (Deloitte, 2025), shows the critical role transferable skills play in career transitions. As industries continue to evolve, these skills offer a bridge for professionals looking to work through new career paths.
Which industries are attracting the most career changers?
The tech industry sees a 34% increase and healthcare a 27% rise in career changers. This data indicates a notable shift towards these sectors for those seeking new career paths.
Tech Industry
The tech sector is proving to be a magnet for career changers. A 2025 Zippia Industry Transition Study found that the tech industry experienced a 34% increase in career changers. This trend is supported by data from BuiltIn, which reported a 30% increase in career changers entering tech jobs in 2025. The surge could be attributed to the expanding demand for digital skills across industries, a trend supported by McKinsey's finding of a 15% increase in demand for such skills that year.
Healthcare Sector
Healthcare is another sector experiencing significant interest from those changing careers. Health eCareers reported a 27% rise in career switchers moving into healthcare in 2025. This influx may be driven by the sector's resilience and growth potential even during economic uncertainties. As Gartner predicts a 25% increase in AI-related jobs by 2026, the integration of technology in healthcare also offers new opportunities for those with transferable skills.
| Industry | Growth Rate for Career Changers | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Tech | 34% | Zippia, 2025 |
| Healthcare | 27% | Health eCareers, 2025 |
| Finance | 18% | eFinancialCareers, 2025 |
| Startups | 20% | Wellfound, 2025 |
The data shows that industries like tech and healthcare are leading the way in attracting career changers, with significant growth reported in 2025. As noted above, this trend may be partly due to a broader shift toward valuing transferable skills over direct industry experience. According to SHRM, career changers who network are 58% more likely to succeed, suggesting that building connections within these industries could enhance transition success.
While the demand for career coaching services has grown by 22% according to CareerBuilder, the average cost of such services remains around $150 per hour (Resume Genius, 2025). This suggests that the financial investment in personal coaching could be a worthwhile strategy for those looking to enter high-growth industries such as tech and healthcare.
How does networking affect career change success?
Networking increases career change success by 58%, with LinkedIn's 930 million members as a key resource. A 2025 SHRM Networking Impact Report indicates that career changers who network are significantly more successful. LinkedIn's expansive global network provides a substantial platform for these efforts, suggesting its integral role in career transitions.
Networking Strategies
Effective networking strategies can markedly improve the likelihood of a successful career change. According to SHRM's 2025 report, career changers who actively network are 58% more successful than those who do not. This highlights the importance of building and maintaining professional connections. LinkedIn's 930 million members worldwide (LinkedIn, 2025) present numerous opportunities for outreach and relationship-building. Utilizing these networks can facilitate introductions to potential employers and information about job openings that might not be publicly advertised. The data shows that leveraging professional networks can be a decisive factor in career transition success.
Impact of Professional Networks
The impact of professional networks on career change cannot be overstated. As noted in the SHRM report, those who network effectively see a marked increase in career transition success. The entry-level job market has shrunk by 29% (Randstad, 2024), which intensifies the need for career changers to use networking to access opportunities beyond traditional job listings. Additionally, the average cost of career coaching is $150 per hour (Resume Genius, 2025), suggesting networking as a cost-effective alternative for gaining career advice and mentorship. LinkedIn's vast membership base provides both a wide and varied audience, making it a vital tool for those looking to pivot their careers.
Networking's role in career change is further emphasized by the fact that 70% of employers are open to hiring career changers, according to the Conference Board (2025). This openness makes it important for career changers to showcase their transferable skills and experience through networking. The growing demand for digital skills, noted by McKinsey's 15% increase across all industries (McKinsey, 2025), underlines the importance of using networks to demonstrate such competencies. Professional networks thus serve as both a resource and a platform for career changers to work through the evolving job market scene.
What are the financial impacts of changing careers?
Successful career changers see a 12% salary increase, while career coaching costs average $150 per hour. A 2025 Glassdoor Economic Research study confirms these financial factors.
Salary changes
The financial incentives of changing careers can be significant. According to Glassdoor Economic Research, successful career changers experience an average salary increase of 12% (2025). This figure suggests that, despite the risks associated with transitioning to a new field, there are substantial economic rewards for those who succeed. However, it is important to note that the tech industry has seen a notable influx of career changers, as noted above, which may contribute to variations in salary outcomes. Additionally, Randstad (2024) reported a 29% decline in entry-level positions, indicating that competition for new roles remains fierce.
Cost of career coaching
Career coaching can be a valuable tool for individuals looking to transition between industries, but it comes with a cost. Resume Genius reports that the average cost of career coaching is $150 per hour (2025). Despite the expense, CareerBuilder (2025) notes a 22% increase in demand for these services, reflecting a growing acknowledgment of their value in facilitating successful career transitions. As more individuals seek to switch fields, the role of career coaching in preparing candidates is likely to become even more pronounced.
Remote work opportunities have also surged by 40% for career changers (iCIMS, 2025), which can mitigate some financial burdens by reducing commuting costs and offering a wider range of job options. The data suggests that while upfront costs are involved, strategic investments in career coaching and leveraging remote work possibilities can lead to positive financial outcomes.
Finally, Pew Research (2025) indicates that 45% of workers are considering a career change, underscoring the broad interest in this path. While not everyone will experience a salary increase, the rising interest in career coaching, as noted by CareerBuilder, reflects the perceived value of professional guidance during transitions. As financial impacts vary, individuals must weigh these costs and potential salary benefits carefully.
What This Means for Job Seekers
- If you're considering a career change, prioritize networking. SHRM data shows career changers who network are 58% more likely to succeed (SHRM, 2025).
- If you plan to switch industries, focus on developing transferable skills. Jobvite finds that 65% of recruiters value transferable skills over direct experience (Jobvite, 2025).
- If you're targeting high-growth sectors, consider tech or healthcare. The tech industry sees a 34% increase in career changers, while the healthcare sector reports a 27% rise (Zippia, 2025; Health eCareers, 2025).
- If financial outcomes are a priority, note that successful career changers experience an average salary increase of 12% (Glassdoor Economic Research, 2025).
- If you're thinking about using career coaching services, budget accordingly. The average cost is $150 per hour, highlighting the potential investment needed (Resume Genius, 2025).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to change careers?
The average time to change careers is 11 months, according to Indeed Hiring Lab (2025).
What percentage of people apply outside their industry?
71% apply outside their industry, according to MyPerfectResume (2024).
Are networking efforts worth the time?
Yes, networking increases career change success by 58% (SHRM, 2025).
Which industry has the highest rate of career changers?
The tech industry sees a 34% increase in career changers (Zippia, 2025).
What is the average salary increase for career changers?
Career changers see an average salary increase of 12% (Glassdoor Economic Research, 2025).
Sources
- MyPerfectResume (2024). Study on career change trends.
- Randstad (2024). Analysis of job position trends.
- LinkedIn (2025). Survey on skills priority for career changers.
- Indeed Hiring Lab (2025). Study on career change duration.
- SHRM (2025). Report on networking impact on career success.
- Glassdoor Economic Research (2025). Research on salary changes for career changers.
- Resume Genius (2025). Data on career coaching costs.
- Jobvite (2025). Survey on recruiter priorities.
- Zippia (2025). Industry transition study.
- Health eCareers (2025). Report on healthcare career switchers.