Career transition
How to Find Career Options From Your Existing Experience
A practical method for mapping your current work to realistic next steps, with a copyable prompt and a way to test each option.
Last updated
2026-09-17
Answer the question for yourself
Generic advice will not tell you which options fit. The method is to turn your own work into a list of problems, decisions, and artefacts, then match them to roles that value those same tasks.
The most useful list comes from the ordinary work you do: the requests you handle, the handoffs you own, the quality checks you run, and the documents you produce.
A copyable prompt
Paste this into an AI tool: "I work as a [role]. My recurring responsibilities are [list them]. Identify three adjacent roles that use these strengths, the new skill each role requires, and one honest portfolio piece I could build to practise each skill. Do not invent experience or guarantee a job."
Use the output as a starting point. Verify that each option matches the real job descriptions in your market.
Test before you commit
For each option, do one bounded task: map a process the role owns, draft the decision record, or practise explaining the work. If it feels useful and you can discuss it plainly, the direction is worth pursuing.
If you need help choosing a direction, the Iteretta fit check compares a CV against a lab so you can see where your experience connects before you start building.
The three-option method
- 01List the work: write the recurring problems you solve and decisions you make.
- 02Name the strengths: translate them into observable skills, not adjectives.
- 03Find the options: match each strength to a role that uses it.
- 04Size the gap: note the new method, tool, or evidence each option needs.
- 05Test one: complete a bounded practice task before committing.
Common questions
How many options should I explore?
Three is a practical number. More than that usually means the list is not specific enough to act on.
How do I know if an option is realistic?
Look at live job descriptions and compare the problems, deliverables, tools, and stakeholders with your experience. Then complete one small practice task and judge whether the work feels achievable.
This resource is maintained by Iteretta. It is educational information, not legal, financial, medical, employment, or other professional advice.