I don’t want to work in social services any longer.

13 Comments

1. AnonymousJune 1,2023 at 12:27PM UTC

   Think about what your transferable skills are, what you currently do, what systems you are proficient in and go from there. Get on linkedin search jobs, google “jobs to transition from social work”. There are many possibilities you will have to start researching,

2. AnonymousJune 1,2023 at 12:40PM UTC

   I can relate! I worked in non-profits as a social worker for years. Then I was recruited to the private sector. I don’t regret it, and haven’t looked back. I also know I need a vacation when I get burned out, experience compassion fatigue or secondary trauma-which happens often in my work.

   many of us work in social services for good reasons, and the last few years have been extra taxing due to worker shortages, COVID, and general stress.

   Find a job that allows you to take care of yourself, and take time to evaluate what YOU do that is taxing. For example, I had very rigid beliefs and a staunch sense of Justice that was not met with resources, or equal work ethic on my previous teams. I found my self-worth in what I did for others. Changing this belief, prioritizing my family and mental health, and setting boundaries were the best changes I made, outside of leaving my jobs.

3. StephanieJune 2,2023 at 4:00PM UTC

   I can completely relate. I had to leave because I couldn’t stand the injustice, and frankly, abuse I witnessed that my boss didn’t seem to care about. He cared more about hiding it from the state to avoid fines. The way I saw my coworkers talk to patients was sickening. The louder I yelled, the less I was heard. Now that I’m gone, my coworkers have been calling me for help. They should have valued me more while I was there since they obviously still want my help! Will think about finding a different career path

4. AnonymousJune 3,2023 at 12:49AM UTC

   Thanks, your response answered a question I didn't know how to express!!!

5. Lara Ivey KauchakJune 1,2023 at 12:47PM UTC

   Consider HR. SHRM might be a good place to start to see if you are a fit for this

6. AnonymousJune 2,2023 at 12:39PM UTC

   I understand! I was 36, worked for state government and had worked in social services for 15 years and was DONE!

   I changed my career, went to nursing school and never looked back! I can’t say that it was easy, but the flexible schedules, pay rate, advancement opportunities and professional atmosphere made it the right choice for me. Currently, there is a huge shortage of RNs and many universities have accelerated programs for those with a degree in another area. In one year, you will be in demand and very valuable with your previous experience and maturity! Just Do It!

7. RebeccaJune 2,2023 at 1:10PM UTC

   I think your NPO experience and ‘people skills’ would transfer well into the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) / Corporate Philanthropy and DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) functions of a for-profit. I also second the person who suggested HR/People Operations. Network on LinkedIn with others who have made the switch, prep a cover letter to showcase transferable skills, connect with recruiters. Would love to help!

8. AnonymousJune 2,2023 at 2:11PM UTC

   You might also want to look for work in higher education. There are a lot of employees with degrees outside of their field. Think about your transferable skills.

9. (redacted)June 2,2023 at 3:21PM UTC

   Happy to chat more about my career transition. It’s been 4 years and I’ve never been happier or better compensated.

10. StephanieJune 2,2023 at 3:50PM UTC

    To what type of work did you transition?

11. (redacted)June 3,2023 at 10:14PM UTC

    I’m a financial advisor (recently earned the CFP designation). Prior to switching, I spent a decade in marketing within financial services

12. AnonymousJune 2,2023 at 3:56PM UTC

    I worked in the mental health field for 15 years and at the age of 40 transitioned into HR. I’ve been in HR for a year and a half now and love it. I obtained an aPHR certification which helped me land a job. Prior to getting it, I wasn’t receiving a lot of interest on my resume. Once I added the certification, I started getting interviews.

13. AnonymousJune 2,2023 at 5:31PM UTC

    Sure it is, look around see what interests you in terms of types of businesses and look at glassdoor and blind to see where toxicity lives. Check linkedin for the trail of folks leaving a company or business in short spurts that too is generally a pre-teller of the places to avoid. You could easily transition into customer success roles in companies that sell either a service or a product to consumers, they are always looking for good communicators with strong people skills to hire. Search your soul, find your purpose, it is out there. And take a few weeks in between to just chill....