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Career Psychology

Career Pivot

A strategic shift to a different career using transferable skills, rather than starting over from scratch. Unlike a career change, a pivot leverages what you already have.

A career pivot (popularized by Jenny Blake, 2016) is a intentional career move that uses your existing skills, knowledge, and network as a foundation — rather than starting from zero.

Types of pivots: Industry pivot (same role, different industry — marketing in finance → marketing in tech), Function pivot (same industry, different role — developer → tech PM), and Double pivot (both — rare, higher risk).

Pivots succeed when you identify transferable skills. A teacher has: public speaking, curriculum design, assessment, coaching, and patience — all transferable to corporate training, UX research, or product management. The RIASEC + Big Five tests help identify which pivot direction matches your personality and interests.

Measure your Career Pivot profile

Take the free RIASEC Career Match test to discover where you fall. Instant results, no signup required.

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