According to Galway recruitment consultant Anne-Marie Fox, founder of Anne-Marie Fox Consulting, career transitions have become a defining feature of modern working life, yet they are rarely straightforward when people find themselves in the middle of one.
“Whether someone is questioning their direction mid-career, returning to work after time away, or reassessing what the next chapter should look like at a senior level, change often brings uncertainty alongside opportunity,” says Fox.
Drawing on her work in recruitment and as a qualified career coach, Fox has supported people through career transitions at every stage. One theme consistently emerges. Successful transitions are not just about securing the next role, but about understanding what matters most at that point in life and career.
“When people move without considering their values, they often end up dissatisfied again, even in what appears to be a good job,” Fox explains.
Values play a significant role in how happy and fulfilled people feel at work. They shape how individuals want to work, how they want to be treated, and what motivates them day to day. When a role aligns with those values, work tends to feel more purposeful and sustainable. When it does not, even the right title or salary can become draining over time.
A common mistake during career transition is focusing too quickly on job titles or salary alone. While these factors matter, they rarely tell the full story. Real clarity comes from stepping back and identifying what someone wants more of, what no longer fits, and what type of environment allows them to perform at their best.
Fox highlights five approaches that consistently help people navigate change with greater confidence and direction.
Take time to reflect before acting
Pausing creates space to understand what is truly driving the desire for change. Without reflection, people often move roles only to repeat the same frustrations.
Identify and prioritise your values
Understanding what matters most, whether autonomy, flexibility, security, growth, or purpose, helps guide better decisions and increases long-term satisfaction at work.
Recognise the value of your experience
Mid-career professionals often underestimate how transferable their skills are. Returners may downplay time away. Senior leaders can become overly defined by title. Experience, perspective, and judgement all hold value beyond any single role.
Be intentional about how you present your story
CVs, LinkedIn profiles, and interview conversations should reflect both experience and future direction. A clear, values-aligned narrative builds confidence and helps others understand where someone is heading.
Let mindset lead the process
There is rarely a perfect time to make a career move. Confidence grows when decisions are driven by self-awareness rather than fear, comparison, or external pressure.
Career transitions do not need to be dramatic to be meaningful. Often, the most successful changes are thoughtful shifts towards work that better reflects who someone is and what they value. When clarity, values, and preparation come together, change becomes an opportunity rather than a disruption.
Reflection question:
If your next role truly aligned with your values, how might your experience of work change?
Anne-Marie Fox Consulting supports jobseekers and employers across Ireland with recruitment, career advice and interview preparation, helping candidates navigate a rapidly changing hiring landscape.
For further information: Anne-Marie Fox, Anne-Marie Fox Consulting Phone: +353 87 9728431 Website: www.amfconsulting.ie
