Exciting Career Change for Teachers: Classroom to Coach

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Teaching is a noble profession that offers immense fulfilment, but it may not be a lifelong career choice for everyone. If you’re an Australian teacher at a crossroads, yearning for fresh opportunities beyond the classroom, this blog post is tailor-made for you. Meet Stephen Christofakakis, a 35-year-old father, consultant, and career coach. After dedicating six years to teaching, Stephen embarked on a successful journey to transition into a different career. In this blog post, he shares his personal story, the challenges encountered, and invaluable advice for a career change for teachers ready to embrace a new path.

Stephen’s Teaching Journey

Stephen’s story begins within the four walls of a classroom, where he initially discovered his passion for teaching. Over a span of six years, he fully immersed himself in the education world, going the extra mile by taking on various responsibilities to enhance his professional expertise. Despite his genuine affection for teaching, Stephen began to feel a growing desire for a new chapter in his professional life. In pursuit of change, he ventured into the corporate sector. To his surprise, his new corporate boss often noted that Stephen’s distinctive “teacher traits” were what he valued most in client interactions. “I had the urge for a career change. I spoke to friends in other industries daily and gave corporate life a go. Almost daily my boss would joke that I had so many teacher traits, but that is what he really wanted me to bring to work when working with clients.”

However, the long hours in an office environment gradually wore him down, prompting Stephen to reconsider his career choices once again. This time, he embarked on a path that led him to become a mentor for trauma-affected students in a K-12 school, where he provided support for nearly 2,000 students. Recognising that one-on-one support was not sustainable in the long run, Stephen took it upon himself to design programs and courses that could assist students in acquiring essential skill-based knowledge.

Today, Stephen has carved a new role for himself, offering guidance and support to teachers seeking to navigate their way out of the classroom. He’s committed to helping educators find the fulfilment they rightfully deserve in their careers, “I now help teachers navigate the next step out of the classroom. It can be very overwhelming, especially when you are stressed and burnout. We create systems and processes together to get you the fulfilment you deserve!”

Challenges of Transitioning

Leaving behind a profession as rewarding and stable as teaching is a big decision, and it’s not without its challenges. Stephen identifies some of the significant hurdles educators face when they decide to make the transition:

Where to Start the Job Search: Initiating the job search outside of teaching can be overwhelming for many, as it often feels like embarking on unfamiliar territory.
What to Look for on Job Sites: Navigating job websites and identifying roles suitable for former educators can be an intricate process, requiring clear direction.
Setting Up a Resume: Creating a resume tailored to non-teaching roles is a skill many teachers need to develop, which adds to their uncertainty.
Leaving a Safe, Ongoing Position: The thought of stepping away from the security of a teaching job often leads to anxiety, making it a difficult mental hurdle to overcome.

Transferable Skills from Teaching

One of the key lessons that Stephen learned from his journey is the immense value of transferable skills. He places significant emphasis on the art of building relationships, a skill that teachers excel at. “Yes, building relationships has been critical. That is my first actionable in any role I take on. I had a few harsh lessons in corporate, but it taught me the difference between being liked and being respected, and I needed that! Building professional relationships with peers, with clients and with executives is the easiest way to build credibility.” He also highlights the importance of “non-needy networking,” a term that refers to genuine interest in people, a trait that is often rare outside of the classroom. Stephen emphasises that teachers possess a unique gift in the art of building meaningful relationships with students, parents, and colleagues. These relationships can be leveraged in various roles across different industries. “You know when someone (a student, a parent or a client) is trying the hard sell, and this doesn’t feel right as a teacher. Having a genuine interest in the people/students you are surrounded by is rare outside the classroom. You have a gift, teachers/support staff!”

Gaining New Skills and Knowledge

In preparation for his career transition, Stephen pursued postgraduate studies in Wellbeing and Inclusive Education. He confirmed that you don’t necessarily need this, “This was helpful, but I don’t think you need to go down that path unless you want/need to.” Furthermore, he adopted a “lifelong learner” mindset, a mindset where he constantly seeks to enhance his knowledge through resources such as podcasts, YouTube, and coaching courses. He’s keen to emphasise that it’s not merely about learning but also about putting that newfound knowledge into practice, “but it isn’t the learning, it is the ‘doing’ that works!”

The Perfect Resume and Cover Letter

When it comes to updating your resume and cover letter for non-teaching positions, Stephen offers some invaluable advice:

Match Your Skills: Tailor your key skills to match the specific job you’re applying for and relate your teaching experience to the job.
Avoid Spray and Pray: Sending out generic applications is often a futile exercise, leading to disappointment. You need to be job-specific.
Celebrate Your Successes: Make sure to highlight and articulate your achievements effectively, providing concrete examples of your contributions.

Starting Your Own Business

For teachers who might be contemplating the idea of starting their own business, Stephen, recommends simplifying the business aspect and focusing on daily actions. While the world of entrepreneurship may appear intimidating, breaking it down into manageable, actionable steps can make it more approachable and achievable. Stephen describes, “I am a coach at heart, and that is what I wanted to base this venture on. I have ‘failed’ at this so many times, but it is all a good learning experience. The ‘business’ aspect has been a steep learning curve, but I have to simplify it to daily action, or else it is too overwhelming.”

Networking and Building Connections

Networking can be a daunting endeavour for many, and formal networking events aren’t always the ideal solution. Stephen suggests that effective networking can also be done through communication with peers, old-school friends, and neighbours, tapping into your already-known network. People you know will often be more forthcoming with helpful information and support if they know you want to move into a different industry. He encourages individuals to initiate conversations about other people’s jobs, industries, and daily work to explore potential interests and opportunities. “Ask them about their job/industry/day-to-day work etc. and see whether that would be of interest to you.” For more information about moving into corporate roles head to our Blog Post, ‘How to Career Transition from Teaching to Corporate‘.

Favorite Resources

Stephen shares a few of his highly recommended resources that have played a crucial role in his career transition:

Podcasts: The Koe Cast (focusing on one-person businesses), Modern Wisdom, and The Knowledge Project.
Book: “The Alchemist” – a timeless classic about the personal legend and self-discovery, which Stephen revisits multiple times throughout the year. The team at Exit Stage Teach love this one too.

Staying Motivated and Resilient

To stay motivated during the career transition process, Stephen suggests developing a systematic approach to your job search.“Develop a system for your search (I can help with this!) We get anxious when we pin our hopes and dreams on a potential role, so you need to have a process of daily action that moves you closer to landing a role you want.”

He also introduces the concept of an “anti-vision,” a mindset that helps prevent undue stress about the future by focusing on actions that can actively work toward preventing undesirable outcomes.“I have developed an ‘anti-vision’. That is, unless I really have to, my preference is not to be in a classroom full-time. So instead of stressing about what might happen in the future, I try and find ways to prevent that.”

Unexpected Benefits

One of the most significant positive outcomes that Stephen has experienced since leaving teaching is gaining a deep understanding of the world beyond education. By breaking free from the traditional education cycle, he has broadened his horizons and gained a new perspective on life and work.“I have developed a big understanding of the world outside of teaching. Many of us go to school, then uni, then back into school. What else are we to know?” It’s this mindset that can often keep teachers feeling like they are “stuck” and can’t leave teaching.

Advice for Teachers Considering a Career Change

A career change for teachers can be a daunting prospect and Stephen’s advice is straightforward but valuable. He emphasises that the beginning of this journey is often the most challenging part. “The start is the hardest, and you will need to do some ‘unlearning’. Have the right supports and structures around you.” He encourages teachers to consider their options, shadow professionals, seek mentors, and test the waters to discover their next path. “You don’t have to jump into a new industry/career, you can shadow/seek mentors etc. and test the waters to see what your future holds.” Stephen firmly believes that teachers possess a unique skill set that can be harnessed and applied effectively in various roles across different industries.“You have a skill set that 90% of the world doesn’t- so harness that and bring that into your next role!” A career change for teachers can be scary but also an exciting time, you get to reinvent yourself and start a new career path.

Work-Life Balance

Maintaining work-life balance during a career transition can be a significant challenge. Stephen recommends adopting a mindset that recognises the impermanence of situations. He encourages individuals to work in seasons, alternating between high-intensity periods and well-deserved rest and recovery. While employers and family members may expect 100% commitment, Stephen underscores the importance of creating time for rejuvenation to avoid burnout and anxiety.”Your boss or family might expect 100% from you, but how can you give that when you don’t have time to recharge? You need to create that recovery time, controversial, I know.”

Long-Term Career Goals

Stephen has ambitious long-term career goals that include coaching and developing individuals to help them create the future they desire, “I want to coach and develop teachers and help them to create the future they want and deserve in any way I can!” He is equally committed to being a present father and husband, considering family to be of utmost importance. His ultimate objectives revolve around freedom and flexibility, and he’s determined to work tirelessly to achieve these goals, “I want to break through self-limiting beliefs around work and business by learning and doing. Inaction breeds anxiousness. FREEDOM and FLEXIBILTY are my sovereignty. Work as hard as I can to achieve those goals.”

Overcoming Setbacks

Stephen acknowledges that setbacks are an inevitable part of any journey. Missing out on job opportunities can be disappointing, but he views these moments as opportunities for personal growth. Each new role and responsibility outside of teaching has contributed to expanding his skillset and increasing his value to employers.“There are many, many roles I missed out on, and whilst it hurts, I try and create new opportunities to keep learning and developing. New roles and responsibilities increase a skill set that will only increase my value to a company/industry.”

Replacing Teacher Income

Stephen acknowledges the journey to replace a teacher’s income is a personal and complex one, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Stephen shares his experience of initially negotiating a salary $10,000 below his teaching wage when transitioning to a corporate role. “I left teaching into corporate recruitment with a mortgage and a wedding to pay for. I negotiated a salary $10k under my teaching wage, but the incentives (bonuses) were made available.” However, he emphasises the importance of considering various factors, including fitness, family, and finances, when making this critical decision.

Fitness: (mental health) Is it seriously deteriorating because of work? Would time off help, or a whole change?
Family: Do you need to care for others? Do you want a role to fit around life? You may need to decrease your wage (for now)
Finances: Do you have a mortgage or other big expenses? Maybe a leap of faith may not work for a $20k decrease as this just creates new stress.

There are many things to consider when it comes to finance and no one size fits all approach, you need to do what works for you and your situation.

Impact on Happiness and Well-Being

Stephen’s transition has had a significant impact on his overall happiness and well-being. By taking the leap to explore new opportunities, he has found fulfillment and gained a better understanding of the world outside of teaching.

“I faced the dilemma: easily be a ‘lifer’ at the same school, teaching the same classes and staying comfortable OR
trying new jobs, looking silly but learning so much along the way. Momentum creates opportunity. You don’t need seismic shifts, just new projects.” Getting started and taking one step at a time really is the easiest way to take the leap. That way you can manage the stress of a career change from teaching and find a career you love.

Stephen Christofakakis’ journey provides valuable insights and inspiration around a career change for teachers. His experiences, challenges, and successes serve as a roadmap for educators seeking a new path beyond the classroom. Stephen has extensive experience both in the classroom and in the corporate world making him a fabulous career coach for teachers. We are so very grateful to have him in our Exit Stage Teach community and highly recommend his services. Check out below how you can get in contact with Stephen and start the process of transitioning out of teaching too.

How to connect with Stephen

You can connect with Stephen on Facebook and LinkedIn, or book a call with him today to explore your own transition journey.

Stephen’s Candidate Coaching business is a done-with-you system to help stressed and burnt-out teachers find clarity, purpose and fulfilment in their next career through a streamlined search.

Book a call with Stephen

Stephen has created a free template for teachers to document their job search, you can access that here.