Signalling Readiness for Change: Taking Risks to Be Seen

Change can feel scary.
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It’s the kind of thing that pokes at our insecurities and makes us question ourselves. But sometimes, to create opportunities, you have to step out of your comfort zone and say, "Here I am."
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This was a lesson I learned when I decided to apply for a job I didn’t want.

My Story: Applying for a Job I Didn’t Want

After spending some time as a Senior Teaching Fellow, I felt this nagging sense that I had more to contribute. I wanted to grow, to challenge myself, and to do more at the university.
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But here’s the thing: my inner critic had other ideas. It was throwing statements like:

• “No one will take you seriously.”
• “You won’t stand out among the candidates.”
• “You’re not enough.”

(Sound familiar?)

Despite the doubts swirling in my head, I started noticing job postings. I read through the descriptions and thought, “Actually, I could do that.” Then one day, a position came up.

It wasn’t a role I wanted. In fact, a friend of mine was applying, and I thought she was a better fit.
But I realised something important: I needed management to see me.

The line manager who had hired me was gone, and no one on the current team really knew me, my ambitions, or my experience. I needed to change that—and this was my chance.

So, I applied. I prepped like crazy, practiced answering all the questions I could think of, and (this is big for me) I even wore a dress and makeup 😊. I gave it my best shot, and though I didn’t get the job, I got something even more valuable: I got noticed.

During the feedback session, my line manager admitted they were surprised by my application but impressed by my interview. More importantly, they didn’t realise I was interested in progressing at the university.

That changed everything. The next time a role came up, someone called me before it was advertised to ask if I would apply.

All because I took that first, uncomfortable step.

Why Signalling Change Matters

We can’t expect people to read our minds or even notice our work sometimes, no matter how good it is. You have to signal your readiness for change—whether it’s through applying for a job, speaking up about your goals, or simply showing people what you can do.

It’s about taking a risk and saying: “This is what I want, and here’s why I’m ready.”

It was this dress, and a variation on this makeup.

​3 Ways to Signal Readiness for Change

1. Ask for Development Opportunities: Your performance review is the perfect time to bring this up. Be clear about your goals and ask for training, projects, or responsibilities that align with them. This shows you’re serious about your growth and open to learning.

2. Step Into the Spotlight:  Sometimes you have to make yourself visible. Volunteer for a high-profile project, present your ideas at meetings, or share a recent win with your manager. This isn’t about bragging—it’s about ensuring people know your value and what you bring to the table.

3. Prepare for What’s Next:  Take some time to look at the roles or opportunities you’re interested in. What skills, experiences, or qualities do they require? Identify any gaps between where you are now and where you want to be, then start building those skills.

Whether it’s through online courses, mentoring, or practice in your current role, preparing yourself makes you feel ready and signals to others that you’re serious about growth.

​Are You Ready for Change?
Sometimes signalling change isn’t about wanting a specific job or opportunity—it’s about saying to yourself and others, “I’m ready for more.”

It can feel uncomfortable, yes, but it’s also a chance to take control of your future and show what you’re capable of.

What can you do today to let the world know you’re ready for the next step?

You never know where that first move might take you.

Need a Helping Hand?
If you’re unsure about how to signal your readiness for change or need guidance on building the skills and confidence to take that step, coaching can help.

As a personal development coach, I’ve worked with many people who want to grow but aren’t sure how to make their ambitions visible.

Sometimes, having someone in your corner can make all the difference.