Considering a career change? Here’s how to make it happen
"I’m ready for a change, but every job I look at wants specific experience in their industry."
Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Many professionals reach a point where they’re ready for a fresh challenge, but breaking into a new industry or role can feel like an uphill battle.
The truth is - not all companies will be open to it. Some hiring managers simply don’t have the time or flexibility to bring someone up to speed. But here’s the good news: mindsets are shifting, and there are ways to position yourself for success. If you’re considering a switch - whether it’s changing industries, portfolios, or even taking on a whole new role - there are strategies you can use to navigate that transition with confidence.
Why make the change?
First things first—let’s talk about why you're considering a transition. Maybe you’ve outgrown your current role, or you’ve discovered a new passion. Whatever the reason, understanding your motivation is key. It’ll help guide your decisions and create a compelling narrative to share with potential employers. Plus, if you’re passionate about your new direction, that energy will shine through in every interview and conversation.
Identifying your transferable skills
When moving into a new role or industry, your biggest assets are your transferable skills. These are the core abilities that apply across industries—things like relationship-building, communication, project management, leadership, and problem-solving. Even the current industry-specific knowledge you’ve gained can be valuable in new contexts.
Here’s how to articulate those transferable skills:
Break down your current role: What do you do day-to-day? Which tasks do you excel at? Identify the skills that can be applied in your new role.
Consider your soft skills: Employers value strong communicators, leaders, and positive minded problem solvers – these qualities are relevant everywhere.
Add value: What unique experience do you bring? You can bring diversity of experience to the team, and your fresh perspective can be a game-changer.
Highlight achievements: Did you lead a project, manage a budget, or hit key targets? Know how to talk through your steps to success. Showcasing achievements demonstrates your potential in any role.
Tailor your resume & LinkedIn profile
Once you’ve identified your transferable skills, it’s time to update your resume and LinkedIn. Here’s how:
Focus on results, not just responsibilities: Employers want to see your impact. Use quantifiable metrics to show how you’ve driven results.
Highlight relevant experience: Even if your experience isn’t directly related, emphasise how your skills align with the new role. For example, if you’re moving from selling medical devices to selling pharmaceuticals, focus on core selling skills, learning agility, how you’ve leveraged internal relationships to grow your market understanding and how you’ve utilised data to grow your territory.
Update your keywords: Use industry-specific terms for the roles you’re targeting. This is crucial for getting past applicant tracking systems (ATS).
Leveraging your network
Career pivots are much easier when you have people in your corner. Here’s how to make the most of your network:
Have informational conversations: Connect with people in your target industry or role. Ask them about their day to day and how they made the shift. This not only helps you learn but also opens doors, and at an interview the hiring manager will know that you may not have worked in a similar role, but you have invested the time to really understand the role.
Engage your current network: Let people know you’re exploring new opportunities. Someone may have a lead or offer valuable advice.
Maximise LinkedIn: Join groups, follow industry leaders, and engage with content related to your new career path. This builds visibility and credibility in your new area of focus.
Addressing the "Experience Gap" in Interviews
Worried about the “experience gap”? Don’t be. Here’s how to handle it:
Emphasise your transferable skills: Draw clear connections between what you’ve done and what the new role requires.
Show enthusiasm for learning: Employers love adaptable, eager-to-learn candidates. Share any steps you’ve already taken that will help you close that gap - courses, certifications, or self-study.
Tell your story: Craft a compelling narrative about why you’re making the change. Whether it’s aligning your career with your values or seeking new challenges, it makes your motivation an asset.
Embrace Rejection as Part of the Process
It’s important to acknowledge that not every opportunity will go your way—and that’s okay! You may simply be up against someone who’s a better fit for that role—and that’s beyond your control. What is in your control is how you respond. Take the time to seek feedback, reflect on how you can use that insight to better position yourself for the next opportunity. Growth comes from learning, and every interview, whether successful or not, is a steppingstone toward growth, helping you get closer to the role that is the right fit for you.
Take the Leap
Transitioning to a new industry or role can feel daunting, but it’s incredibly rewarding when done right. Focus on your strengths, build a compelling narrative, and lean on your network. Your experiences are valuable, and persistence often breaks down barriers.
If you're ready to take that leap, I hope this guide helps you on your journey. We’re also here and happy to support you along the way!
