You may have decided to try a totally new job in an industry that you are currently not working in and have set your sights on changing your professional life. It is a very exciting concept as you plunge into the relatively unknown but it will require a certain degree of both determination and a level of focus to help you attain what you want.
To be able to have the maximum possibility of success in getting a new job in an industry that is also new to you, you must firstly consider some important factors that are necessary to help you navigate through the situation.
Take an outside perspective on your decision making process and think carefully about what is the driving force behind your choices. Is it because you are disillusioned in your current job or is it more about making that professional change that feels the right thing to do at this time? Once you have realised what exactly are the reasons that you wish to leave your current industry and try something totally new, then this will help you identify the factors which will help to propel you forward to reach your goal and become successful.
As stated in previous articles, a CV should always be tailored so that it aligns with the job you are applying for so take time to reword your current CV so it focuses on the various transferable skills and fresh outlooks and experiences that you can offer a new industry. Often it is the possession of certain skills and abilities from candidates that employers value over traditional qualifications and this can be a key to success.
Those wishing to change their job industry should emphasise their soft skills as well as their technological competency as soft skills are becoming increasingly recognised and sought after in the workplace by employers. Examples of soft skills are many and varied and can include skills such as communication, teamwork, problem solving and leadership qualities. In addition to these, prospective candidates must showcase their eagerness to learn the new job and how adaptable they are to make their vision into reality.
Stay one step ahead of professional platforms that are related to the specific industry you are interested in and network as much as you can. This will enable you to make some valuable contacts who can open professional doors and offer you recommendations, guidance and advice.
Research everything you can about the industry and familiarise yourself with all aspects of the roles available within the new industry. This includes current trends, competitors, challenges, statistics, important people within that industry, industry requirements and everything in between.
Planned, professional change is entirely possible but of course you must remain open minded, patient and focused, while taking time to continue learning as much as you can about your new industry until your commitment and diligence finally pays off.