A career change can seem completely overwhelming. Starting from scratch, shifting gears, and deciding to embark on a new path can come with the fear of failure or tons of uncertainty. However, if you are ready for a new position in a new industry, making the change doesn’t have to be intimidating. If you frame this career revamp in the right light, you can make this an easy change and land the job you’re looking for. Here are some expert tips on how to navigate your transition.
Shift Strategically
First, assess your motivation. Guarantee to yourself that you are making this choice for the right reasons. Don’t just shift to an industry because it seems “cool” or “popular”. You need to have the skills and traits that your new industry requires. You need to match your job to what you bring to the table. If you’re a creative soul, trying your hand at computer engineering will be challenging. Research is your best friend as you embark on a career change. You need to know:
- What education and skills your intended position will require
- How to get quality experience to set you up for success
- The best companies in your area that fit the bill
- What specific talents employers in this new field seek in candidates
Make a Plan (Make Two!)
Without an ascribed plan, your success will be limited. How can you achieve your goal if you don’t write out how you plan on getting there? Have a plan for success with small steps so you can measure your progress as you try to break into a new industry. It’s also wise to create a plan for failure. It hurts, but you need to anticipate the worst case scenario. The only way you crash and burn is if you don’t give yourself a safety net. Do not quit your existing job without at least a plan of action.
Transferable Skills
How do you enter an industry with limited experience? Know your abilities and know how to sell them. A career move can be tough because the most experience you gain while in a position is job-specific. A recruiter for a tech company won’t be too impressed that you can operate an industrial counterbalance forklift. However, they will be blown away if you can describe how quickly you gained that skill, and your dedication to learning on the job and investing in your own personal growth. Make a list of your recent job responsibilities, and then write down how you can feature those in an interview with a new company.
Consult the Experts
One way to truly simplify your job search? Use a staffing agency. A top Chicago firm like Davis Staffing helps job seekers in a wide variety of industries across the city, so our professionals can pinpoint your professional challenges and help you rehabilitate your job application materials. If you’re looking to make a big change, consult the pros at Davis Staffing today.