Are you a teacher feeling burnt out and thinking about a career change? You’re not alone. Between February 2020 and May 2022, around 300,000 public-school teachers and staff left their jobs1. With 55% of teachers thinking about leaving early2, it’s clear many are looking for new paths. Luckily, there are many second career options for ex-teachers that use your valuable skills and experience.
Changing careers from teaching can be tough, but it’s also full of opportunities. As a former teacher, you have skills that many industries want. You can move into corporate training, sales, customer success, or curriculum writing. These are just a few of the many post-teaching job opportunities out there. By exploring these options, you can find a new career that matches your interests and skills.
Non-teaching jobs for teachers are available in many fields, both inside and outside of education. You could become an instructional designer, earning an average of $81,6852, or a human resources manager, earning an average of $74,9412. Even corporate trainers can earn between $69,000 and $88,0001. By using your teaching background and skills, you can start a fulfilling new career.
Key Takeaways
- Around 300,000 public-school teachers and staff left the field between February 2020 and May 2022, with 55% considering leaving prematurely.
- Former teachers possess valuable transferable skills sought after in various industries, such as corporate training, sales, customer success, and curriculum writing.
- Non-teaching jobs for teachers offer competitive salaries, with instructional designers earning an average of $81,685 and human resources managers earning an average of $74,941.
- Leveraging teaching experience and skills can lead to successful career transitions into rewarding new paths within and outside of education.
- Exploring alternative careers for teachers opens up exciting opportunities for professional growth and fulfillment.
Transitioning From Teaching: Challenges and Opportunities
Leaving teaching can feel overwhelming and emotional. Many educators feel lost and unsure of their next steps. They often leave due to lack of respect, poor work-life balance, and low pay3. A study found that teachers in the U.S. face more anxiety than healthcare workers and office staff4.
Teachers want to move up but find few chances to do so3. After the pandemic, there are 500,000 fewer teachers in schools. Also, 43% of teaching jobs are still open, showing a big gap in the workforce4. Career growth for K-12 teachers is mostly limited to admin roles3.
Teachers have skills that many industries value. But, they often don’t know how to apply these skills outside of teaching3. Skills like people management, data analysis, and problem-solving are hard to translate into corporate speak3.
To move on, teachers need to learn new skills, often through volunteering or freelancing3. They bring valuable skills to other fields, including:
- Communication skills
- Adaptability
- Leadership and management abilities
- Empathy and emotional intelligence
- Creativity and innovation4
By identifying their transferable skills and researching new career paths, teachers can find rewarding jobs. They can succeed in fields like training, EdTech, non-profits, government, corporate HR, and consulting4.
It’s key for teachers transitioning to highlight their strengths and abilities in their new career story4.
Districts must offer growth paths for teacher-leaders to avoid career stagnation. Schools of education should prepare students for careers beyond teaching. Teacher-prep programs should partner with schools, businesses, and industry groups for networking and skill-building3.
Transferable Skills for Teachers
Teachers have many valuable skills that can be used in different careers. These skills, gained from years of teaching, make them attractive to many industries. For example, 51% of K-12 teachers have a master’s degree, showing their commitment to their work5.
Active Learning and Listening
Teaching is all about effective communication. Teachers are great at listening to their students and adjusting their teaching style. This skill is very useful in jobs like customer success manager, where understanding client needs is key. Teachers also know how to make complex information interesting, which is great for roles like instructional designer.
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
Teachers are skilled at solving problems and thinking critically. They can look at situations from different angles and find creative solutions. This skill is highly valued in project management, where the average salary is $79,424 USD6. Teachers can use their critical thinking to manage complex projects and achieve success.
Instructing and Training
Teachers are experts in creating lesson plans and teaching. They are perfect for jobs in corporate training and educational consulting. Corporate trainers, who make an average of $60,511 USD a year, help develop skills in companies6. Educational consultants, who earn an average of $102,550 USD a year, help design curricula and train teachers6.
Time Management and Multitasking
Teachers are great at handling many tasks at once. They can prioritize well, which is useful in jobs like project manager or account manager. Project managers make an average of $79,424 USD a year, and account managers make $63,695 USD6. Teachers can use their time management skills to meet deadlines and satisfy clients.
“Teachers possess a diverse set of skills such as communication, organization, creativity, and adaptability that are highly valued across different industries.”7
| Transferable Skill | Applicable Career | Average Annual Salary (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Instructional Design | Instructional Designer | $70,629 |
| Curriculum Development | Curriculum Developer | $71,395 |
| Training and Development | Corporate Trainer | $60,511 |
| Educational Consulting | Higher Education Consultant | $102,550 |
Teachers can move into new careers by using their transferable skills. With an average salary of $65,090, exploring new paths can be rewarding and financially beneficial5.
Alternative Careers for Teachers Within Education
Teachers looking for a change have many options within education. These roles use their skills and experience in new ways. They help students grow and develop.
Principal
As a principal, teachers lead and mentor staff. They manage the school’s daily activities. This job needs strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
Curriculum Specialist
Curriculum writers make educational materials like lesson plans. Instructional designers use their classroom experience to create effective content. They help improve learning methods and curriculum.
These roles pay well, with an average salary of $87,652. They require a bachelor’s degree and experience. Skills in software platforms are also important.
School Counselor
School counselors support students’ well-being. They use their knowledge of child development to help. This role is rewarding for former teachers.
Admissions counselors help students choose schools. They need to know a lot about education. These roles are great for those who want to help students.
Other good jobs include being an educational consultant, college consultant, or learning specialist. These jobs help families and students. They pay well and require a bachelor’s degree and experience.
“Teaching is not a lost art, but the regard for it is a lost tradition.” – Jacques Barzun
Exploring these careers lets teachers use their skills and passion. They shape the future of education and help students.
Careers for Former Teachers Outside of Education
Many teachers look for new opportunities outside the classroom. They bring valuable skills to various fields, like corporate training and instructional design. This allows them to find roles that match their interests and expertise.
Corporate Trainer
Corporate trainers help employees learn new skills. They earn an average of $67,4318. Teachers can use their teaching skills to help others grow in their careers.
Human Resources Manager
Human resources managers handle many tasks, like hiring and training. Teachers are great at this because of their communication skills. The need for skilled designers in eLearning9 is growing, making this a good choice for teachers.
Instructional Designer
Instructional designers create learning materials for different settings. Teachers are good at this because they know how to teach well9. They can earn up to $81,037 as a curriculum developer8.
Educational Consultant
Educational consultants help schools improve their teaching methods. Teachers are experts in this area9. They can earn up to $93,827 as an educational technology consultant8.
Other jobs for former teachers include:
- Sales representative
- Customer success manager
- Curriculum writer
- Marketing manager
- Event planner, with an average salary of $55,8308
- Social worker
These jobs use skills like communication and leadership in new ways. EdTech companies offer chances for teachers to help create educational products9. They can use their teaching skills to make engaging content.
| Career | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Corporate Trainer | $67,431 |
| Curriculum Informer | $81,037 |
| Educational Technology Consultant | $93,827 |
| Event Planner | $55,830 |
Changing careers can be tough, but it’s also a chance to grow and discover new things.
Exploring new careers can lead to fulfilling roles that match a teacher’s skills and values.
Preparing for Your Career Transition
Switching careers from teaching to something new needs careful planning. As a former teacher, pivoting your career story means looking at your transferable skills. You should also research industries that match your interests and abilities, and network with professionals in your desired field.
First, list your skills like active learning, problem-solving, and time management. These skills are valuable in many industries and can make you stand out. Teachers work long hours, often over 50 hours a week, showing their strong work ethic and dedication10.
It’s important to research industries to understand the job market and find potential career paths. Consider fields like corporate training, human resources, and educational consulting. On average, it takes former teachers in the Global Grant Writers Collective just 6.6 months to find a new job and 9 months to start their own side hustles10.
Networking is key to finding opportunities and learning about your desired industry. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with people who have made the switch from teaching. Over 95% of K–12 teachers have a bachelor’s degree and work full-time but earn average salaries of $55,000, as reported by the U.S. census in 202211. Networking can help you find roles with better pay and growth potential.
Upskilling through courses and certifications can make you more marketable. Consider learning skills like grant writing, event planning, or software development. The average salary for a grant writer is $62,186, with potential earnings over $100,000 for independent consultants10. Event planners earn about $58,750 a year, with the chance to make over $80,000 in the luxury niche11.
When interviewing, show your diverse skills beyond classroom management. Talk about your leadership, instructional design, and program management abilities. Showing a willingness to learn and grow can help you overcome interview biases12.
| Transferable Skill | Application in New Career |
|---|---|
| Communication | Effectively conveying ideas and collaborating with colleagues |
| Leadership | Guiding teams and driving projects to success |
| Problem-solving | Analyzing complex situations and developing innovative solutions |
| Adaptability | Thriving in dynamic work environments and embracing change |
By strategically preparing for your career transition and leveraging your transferable skills, you can confidently embark on a new professional journey that aligns with your goals and values.
Conclusion
Switching careers from teaching can seem scary, but it’s also a chance for growth. Many teachers face burnout, with 44% feeling it often or always13. This year, 67% saw it as a big problem13. Many are looking for new career paths.
Teachers deal with compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress too. About 75% of school staff show signs of this stress14. Yet, teachers have skills that many industries value.
Teachers are great at active listening, problem-solving, and critical thinking. They can move into roles like principal, curriculum specialist, or corporate training. This way, they can use their skills in new and exciting ways.
Retirement can also lead to new opportunities. Teachers can try tutoring, consulting, writing, or starting their own business15. Tutoring, for example, is less stressful and lets teachers work one-on-one with students15.
As teachers start their next chapter, they should be open-minded and eager to learn. By using their skills and experiences, they can find success and make a difference in their new careers.
FAQ
What are some popular alternative careers for former teachers?
Former teachers can explore many careers. They can become corporate trainers, human resources managers, or instructional designers. They can also work as educational consultants, sales reps, or customer success managers. Other options include curriculum writers, marketing managers, event planners, and social workers.
What challenges do teachers face when transitioning to a new career?
Leaving teaching can be tough and emotional. Teachers often feel lost and unsure. They might struggle to find their skills, research new careers, and feel confident in their abilities.
What transferable skills do teachers possess that are valuable in other industries?
Teachers have many valuable skills. They are great at active listening and problem-solving. They can instruct, manage time, and communicate well. They are adaptable, empathetic, and creative.
What are some alternative career paths for teachers who want to stay in education?
Teachers can stay in education in many ways. They can become school principals, curriculum specialists, or school counselors. They can also work as educational consultants, college advisors, or after-school directors. These roles let them continue helping students while facing new challenges.
How can former teachers prepare for a successful career transition?
To transition well, teachers should know their skills and research industries. They should tell a new career story and network. Taking courses or getting certifications can also help them stand out.
Are there rewarding career opportunities available for former teachers?
Yes, there are many rewarding careers for former teachers. By using their skills and exploring new paths, they can find jobs that match their passions. This leads to personal and professional growth.
Source Links
- Best Jobs for Former Teachers in 2024 – Teacher Career Coach – https://teachercareercoach.com/jobs-for-former-teachers/
- 50 Best Jobs for Former Teachers in 2024 | Devlin Peck – https://www.devlinpeck.com/content/best-job-former-teachers
- Transitioning Out of Teaching Is Hard. Here’s What I’ve Learned (Opinion) – https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/opinion-transitioning-out-of-teaching-is-hard-heres-what-ive-learned/2024/04
- Teachers, Here’s How To Successfully Change Careers After Burnout – https://www.forbes.com/sites/cherylrobinson/2024/02/22/teachers-heres-how-to-successfully-change-careers-after-burnout/
- 50 Transferable Skills: Why Teachers Excel In The Tech Industry – https://www.forbes.com/sites/christinecarter/2023/12/27/50-transferable-skills-why-teachers-excel-in-the-tech-industry/
- 10 Best Jobs for Former Teachers in Related Fields – https://blog.cathy-moore.com/best-jobs-for-former-teachers/
- 10 of the Best Careers for Former Teachers | Knowadays – https://knowadays.com/blog/10-of-the-best-careers-for-former-teachers/
- 36 Jobs To Get You Out of the Classroom but Not Out of Education – https://www.weareteachers.com/teacher-jobs/
- The 16 Best Jobs for Former Teachers – https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/16-best-jobs-former-teachers-scott-winstead-15w3c
- Career Change for Teachers: How-To Guide and 15 Ideas – https://www.learngrantwriting.org/blog/career-change-for-teachers/
- 6 Fulfilling Career Changes for Teachers – https://www.betterup.com/blog/career-change-for-teachers
- How to Prepare for Career Change Interview: Teachers – https://blog.thecontingentplan.com/p/teachers-how-to-prepare-for-career-change-interview
- Teacher Burnout Statistics: Why Teachers Quit in 2024 | Devlin Peck – https://www.devlinpeck.com/content/teacher-burnout-statistics
- ‘My Empathy Felt Drained’: Educators Struggle With Compassion Fatigue | NEA – https://www.nea.org/nea-today/all-news-articles/compassion-fatigue-teachers
- Perfect Jobs for Retired Teachers – Education Corner – https://www.educationcorner.com/jobs-for-retired-teachers/
