Navigating a career transition can be stressful. Changing industries involves starting over in an unfamiliar environment and finding a way to work toward your definition of success.
However, navigating a career transition can be exciting. You can develop a plan to pursue your passions and reach your goals in a different industry. These actions support personal and professional growth.
Use this guide to navigate your career transition as you change industries.
Research the New Industry
Learn all about the industry you want to change to. Gathering information lets you know what to expect while navigating your career transition.
For instance, consider how well the new industry fits your goals, values, and interests. Also, focus on the job market trends, common job requirements, and typical growth opportunities.
Consider Your Transferrable Skills
Your transferrable skills can help you transition your career to another industry. Because you might lack industry experience, your project management, communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills could help you land a role.
Network
Build relationships with industry professionals to help you navigate your career transition:
- Connect with industry professionals through online platforms, local events, and associations.
- Participate in industry webinars, seminars, and conferences to develop relationships.
- Engage in informational interviews to gather insight into the industry, request advice, and look for job opportunities.
Develop Your Industry Knowledge and Skills
Engage in online workshops or courses to develop your industry knowledge and skills. Also, consider earning certification and volunteering for relevant projects to apply what you learn. Demonstrating your knowledge and skills increases the odds of transitioning to a new industry.
Customize Your Cover Letter and Resume
Tailor your cover letter and resume to each role you apply for. For instance, include your transferrable skills, industry certification, and relevant volunteerism to demonstrate your potential for success. Also, emphasize your desire for continuous learning and growth within the organization. Additionally, use job- and industry-specific keywords throughout your resume to get it past an applicant tracking system (ATS) and to the hiring team.
Find a Mentor
Partner with an experienced industry professional who is willing to mentor you. They can offer insight, guidance, and support as you navigate your career transition. You can use your mentor’s knowledge, experiences, and accomplishments to help guide your professional path within the new industry.
Partner with a Staffing Agency
Work with a staffing agency to navigate your career transition:
- An agency recruiter can help you plan your new professional path.
- You can take on a temporary, part-time, contract, or temporary-to-hire role to enter the new industry.
- As you gain industry experience, the recruiter can help you secure full-time, direct-hire employment.
Would You Like Help Navigating Your Career Transition?
Partner with HireCall to build a career in a new industry in Oklahoma, Washington, Texas, Georgia, or Florida. Visit our job board to apply for a role today.
