Alexandra Aileru on Radical Confidence & Confident Career Switch

Changing careers can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re stuck in a role that no longer aligns with your values. 

Alexandra Aileru knows this feeling all too well. After years as a dedicated teacher, she found herself burnt out, undervalued and searching for a new path. With no clear roadmap, a trusted mentor introduced her to the world of project management. 

This was a turning point that not only reshaped her career but also inspired her to help others do the same.

I met Alexandra at the Retrain Expo in 2024, where she was a speaker at the event. From our first conversation, I instantly understood her mission and was incredibly inspired by the work she’s doing.

In this interview, Alexandra shares her journey from teaching to project management and career coaching, the biggest mistakes career changers make and the mindset shifts needed to navigate career transitions with clarity and confidence.

If you’re feeling stuck in your career and wondering what’s next, Alexandra’s insights might be exactly what you need to take that next step!

“Stay focused on your goals, be consistent in your efforts and prioritise how your work will create value for others.”

Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to transition from teaching to project management and career coaching? 

I was exhausted and undervalued in teaching. Although I excelled in my role, my values no longer aligned with the profession. Burnt out and counting down to every holiday, I resolved to leave for good after learning I was pregnant in 2020. 

With no clear path forward, a trusted mentor suggested project management. I researched, completed a course and felt it was the right fit. Facing challenges, I vowed to break barriers and help others transition once I succeeded. Career coaching fulfills my goal of supporting others through life-changing career shifts.

What inspired you to launch Confident Career Switch, and what impact have you seen so far on the individuals you’ve helped?

Confident Career Switch was birthed from sharing career tips on TikTok, which led to countless mentoring requests. I decided to formalise my approach. Most people seeking help struggle with confidence. Having been through the same journey, I focused on empowering them by showing how their existing skills could help them thrive in a new career.

For those feeling stuck in jobs they don’t enjoy, what’s the first step they should take to successfully switch careers? 

Start by identifying your values and strengths. Misalignment between your role and values often causes dissatisfaction, and this can carry over to a new career if left unresolved. Strengthen your skills (not your weaknesses) to build a strong personal brand and set yourself up for faster growth.

What are the most common mistakes people make when changing careers, and how can they avoid them? 

A common mistake is waiting until burnout to act. Successful career changes are intentional and involve regular reflection, clear branding (knowing your strengths) and ensuring visibility in your industry. 

How does personal branding play a role in making a successful career transition? 

Personal branding is crucial in today’s workplace. It shapes how you’re perceived by colleagues, impacts promotions, and plays a key role in building external opportunities during transitions.

“Serving others builds impact, purpose and a sensational brand!”

What was your approach to developing your own personal brand and what advice do you have for others looking to do the same?

I once lost out on a bonus because my brand was unclear. Now, I ensure there’s no uncertainty about who I am or what I bring to the table. Define your strengths and align your actions with your brand’s message.

You often talk about ‘radical confidence’ in career transitions. Can you explain what that means and how someone can build it? 

Radical confidence means believing anything is possible, even without proof. I’ve built mine by consistently keeping promises to myself, strengthening my Christian faith and reflecting on past wins to give me the resilience to face new challenges with courage.

What are the key mindset shifts people need to make when transitioning careers and how can they nurture those shifts?

Believe it is possible and be unwavered by uncertainty. Stay focused on your goals, be consistent in your efforts and prioritise how your work will create value for others. Serving others builds impact, purpose and a sensational brand!

What skills do professionals need today to remain competitive, especially when switching careers or advancing in their current roles? 

Soft skills are essential as AI handles more technical tasks. Human connection and problem-solving will set you apart. Stay curious, agile and always remain open to learning.

Looking ahead, what’s next for you and Confident Career Switch? Any exciting projects or ventures on the horizon?

We have online events scheduled with industry leaders and expanding by offering solutions to help organisations attract and retain top career-change talent. This year, we aim to maximise our impact across all platforms. Watch this space!

Reflecting on your journey so far, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone looking to follow a similar career path?

Start now! Your future self depends on today’s actions. Stay consistent, believe it’s possible, and view the journey as preparation for thriving in your next big opportunity.