Changing Careers: Steps to Transition into the Social Work Field

There is no trivial profession switch. It takes bravery, determination and meaning, particularly if you’re jumping into something so viscerally challenging and rewarding as social work. If  you’ve been miserable in your current job and long to work and help others, pursuing social work is one of the best choices you make. 

But where do you start? Let’s get down to the essential steps for you to be a social worker. 

Why Social Work?

First things first why?  People come for a million and one reasons to do this job. Some might have been moved by experience, when social workers showed up in their families or communities. Others might be sick of working in corporate settings and are searching for a more meaningful and intimate role. 

You might not know why, but ponder it. Going into social work is a personal choice and being able to know why will keep you grounded when the chips are down. Social work is hard on the heart and it’ll go a long way when you’re faced with the inevitable setbacks if you know why you’re doing it. 

Do Your Homework

Once you’ve identified your "why", the "what" and "how" come next. Social work spans many disciplines, from child and family services to health, mental health and even education. Get a little research done ahead of time and find out what it is that you really connect with. 

Talk to Social Workers

One of the most personalised places to get an impression of what the profession is all about is through social workers themselves. Call on people who are in the profession now and ask them what their day looks like, challenges they have and what is their favourite part of the job. You’ll learn things no description can. You’ll have a good network when it comes time to go searching for work, too. 

Read the Industry News

Social work is ever-evolving. New policies, society and budgets can change the way social workers work. Stay abreast of trends and issues, and you’ll be more confident in the field and have a better idea of where you could devote your energies. 

Your Skills and Experience

There’s a pretty good chance that you have a stack of expertise from your current job that could be tipped over to social work. Communication, problem-solving, empathy and time management are among the most important skills that every social worker has. Take inventory of your strengths, and consider how you might use them in a social work environment. Also a career aptitude test can let you know where you are good at and where you need to improve. 

But do not take it personally either. What are you missing?  But what gaps do you need to close before you can compete for a social work position? Well you’re not in the know for everything just yet, that’s next! 

Education and Qualifications  

This is where the real work begins. If you’re not already a social worker then you’ll need some formal training to enroll. You have a couple of choices depending on your stage of life. 

Get a Social Work Degree

For the novice there is nothing more directly attainable than a BSW (Bachelor of Social Work). BSW courses are focused on the foundations of social work, including human behaviour, social justice, ethics and practice in case management. 

However, if you already hold another degree, you may wish to think about an MSW. Such programmes are usually designed for career changers, and can often enable you to focus on a specialty (for example, clinical social work or community organisation). 

Consider Easy Online Diploma in Social Work

If you’re after a more flexible option especially if you’ve recently left the classroom then access to HE diploma for Social Work online might be right for you. These programmes are for individuals who are going back to school and will equip you with the fundamentals and abilities to continue on to a college degree in social work. 

Keep Continuing Education and Certifications In Mind

Once you have your degree, you don’t stop learning. Social work is a profession that needs to be continually trained to ensure it is always abreast of the latest best practice, research findings and emerging laws. You can search for certifications and specialisations that match your professional interests – be it trauma informed care, substance abuse counselling or working with groups such as the elderly or refugees. 

Get Experience

Educating is vital, but social work requires practical experience. Employers want to know you did your research, especially in a niche where emotional intelligence and people skills matter. 

Internships and Volunteering

First things first, volunteer or work as an intern at a social services organisation and see where that can lead you. This will not only serve as an experience, but also start to put you in contact with the social work field. Seek out positions with local nonprofits, schools, hospitals or social services agencies. Even if it’s not quite what you’re going to be doing in the future, anything will get you through. 

Part-time or Entry Level Roles

If you cannot hold down a full time position while still in training or school look for part time or entry level positions within the industry. Jobs such as a case aide, administrative assistant at a social services department or even a community outreach worker will provide you with plenty of hands-on experience when you’re completing your education. 

Build Your Network

In any profession, reputation is as vital as knowledge – and social work is no exception. 

Start going to industry meetings, seminars and conferences where you will find experts, mentors or even leads for a job. There will also be information and networking resources available to you when you join professional groups. 

Remember too, the majesty of social media. LinkedIn is an excellent place to network with other professionals and learn about job openings and news in your field. On Twitter and Facebook you can find social work groups too where you can share tips, questions or simply be supported by other practitioners. 

Prepare for the Emotional Experience

Because let’s face it, social work is emotionally draining. You’ll be dealing with people, sometimes in crises, and sometimes you might feel like the problem is simply too large. Burnout is not uncommon in the industry, so it’s vital to develop a network and care for yourself at an early stage of your career. 

It encourages good boundaries and tenacity. To be able to ‘stay at the office’ and recharge emotionally is important for longevity in social work. No one should judge you for finding your own therapist or support group as you start this new career. 

Start Applying

With your degree, experience and network secured, you’re ready to search for your first paid social work job. Your CV should highlight your current job related experience, skills, and certifications that you acquired and don’t forget to include your interest in the discipline in your cover letter. 

Don’t worry about getting started small. The next role may not be your ideal one and that is a first step. Getting a foot in the door, developing relationships, learning and evolving in the field are all that matters. 

Go For It

With a career in social work, you’re not merely making a move in your life, you’re moving lives (yours and others). It is a slow and winding road but with drive, hard work and the right support you’ll reach something rewarding and fulfilling and that makes a difference.