8 answers
Caleb
Student
Ohio City, Ohio
1
Question
Asked
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Can you share some tips for navigating a career transition, particularly from one industry to another??
Can you share some tips for navigating a career transition, particularly from one industry to another?
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8 answers
Jedrich Sison
Emergency Medical Technician
1
Answer
Carson, California
Updated
Jedrich’s Answer
I had transitioned from working in retail to working in emergency medical services. I embarked on this career transition because I wanted to get my foot in the door into the healthcare field, especially because my future goal was to become a physician.
There were some skills I had in retail that had transitioned smoothly into healthcare (ex, attention to detail, customer service, multi-tasking). However, I had to get used to things I hadn't worried about in retail. Things such as documenting the patient's condition for each call, memorizing a whole host of different treatment modalities that slightly or vastly differ based on what each EMS Agency's county allows you to do within your scope of practice, driving lights & sirens (Code 3) to emergencies or with critical patients in the back.
Things such as these had thrown me off initially, and I had felt the "impostor syndrome" that I barely scraped to get by in my EMT class, and I shouldn't even be doing this in the first place. However, what helped me transition smoothly into this new career and industry were the people I had known who were from this field in the first place.
My EMT school was unique. We had many different volunteers and mentors who helped us out, including active EMTs and former students from the class. Learning from them and getting insider information about what the job entails helped me settle in much more manageable, especially as I started working at my agency for the first time. Also, my friends in my class worked at different agencies after we passed, and discussing how work was going for the rest of us helped me feel that I wasn't alone in tackling such a vastly different job.
Some tips I would suggest for you
- Do your best to network yourself and meet people from the industry you're trying to get into
- Know that everybody, even senior employees, were just new hires at one point in time
- If you make mistakes/constantly make mistakes in your new career, try to reflect on how it can be mitigated in the future
Best of luck to you if you do decide to make a career transition!
There were some skills I had in retail that had transitioned smoothly into healthcare (ex, attention to detail, customer service, multi-tasking). However, I had to get used to things I hadn't worried about in retail. Things such as documenting the patient's condition for each call, memorizing a whole host of different treatment modalities that slightly or vastly differ based on what each EMS Agency's county allows you to do within your scope of practice, driving lights & sirens (Code 3) to emergencies or with critical patients in the back.
Things such as these had thrown me off initially, and I had felt the "impostor syndrome" that I barely scraped to get by in my EMT class, and I shouldn't even be doing this in the first place. However, what helped me transition smoothly into this new career and industry were the people I had known who were from this field in the first place.
My EMT school was unique. We had many different volunteers and mentors who helped us out, including active EMTs and former students from the class. Learning from them and getting insider information about what the job entails helped me settle in much more manageable, especially as I started working at my agency for the first time. Also, my friends in my class worked at different agencies after we passed, and discussing how work was going for the rest of us helped me feel that I wasn't alone in tackling such a vastly different job.
Some tips I would suggest for you
- Do your best to network yourself and meet people from the industry you're trying to get into
- Know that everybody, even senior employees, were just new hires at one point in time
- If you make mistakes/constantly make mistakes in your new career, try to reflect on how it can be mitigated in the future
Best of luck to you if you do decide to make a career transition!
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
217
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi Caleb - your question resonated with me because I have changed careers and industries in my life (telecom to finance to credit to medicine to consumer products to tech). As the others have said, you have personal qualities and skills that transcend a particular job and certainly an industry. Qualities could include customer-focused, patience, attention to detail, tenacity and more. Skills could include writing, research, quantitative, graphical design, computer and more.
If you want to change jobs or industry - I suggest doing only one at a time - you likely will need to explain how your qualities and skills apply to the new role or industry. First, you need to understand how, yourself. Second, you need to be able to explain it confidently and succinctly. Be prepared to repeat this with anyone you interview with. Employers often have many applicants for an open job so their application requirements are not questioned.
Be polite, but persistent - good luck!
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/changing-industries-mid-career-guide-people2people-85tyc/
If you want to change jobs or industry - I suggest doing only one at a time - you likely will need to explain how your qualities and skills apply to the new role or industry. First, you need to understand how, yourself. Second, you need to be able to explain it confidently and succinctly. Be prepared to repeat this with anyone you interview with. Employers often have many applicants for an open job so their application requirements are not questioned.
Be polite, but persistent - good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Afrad Mahamed
Operations & Project Management
70
Answers
Lakeland, Florida
Updated
Afrad’s Answer
Hi Caleb -
It may seem like heading into a new unknown but most of the time that's not the case. Generally, we are selling a product, providing a service, or improving a process. The principles in each of these are alike regardless of the type of product, type of service, or process being improved.
As an example, I studied process improvement in advanced manufacturing and am now applying the same techniques in an office setting. I found that the methods are relatable in assessing the issues and developing solutions. This would be one part, whereby you take transferrable job-specific skills and adapt them to the new environment.
On the other hand, all personal skills can be carried from job to job; skills that you've gained through learning and your own experiences. These, along with your qualities will help you drive success wherever you go.
Bottomline, look at what you've learned and skills you've gained from a personal and professional capacity and figure out how you can adapt them to new environments.
Hope this helps!
It may seem like heading into a new unknown but most of the time that's not the case. Generally, we are selling a product, providing a service, or improving a process. The principles in each of these are alike regardless of the type of product, type of service, or process being improved.
As an example, I studied process improvement in advanced manufacturing and am now applying the same techniques in an office setting. I found that the methods are relatable in assessing the issues and developing solutions. This would be one part, whereby you take transferrable job-specific skills and adapt them to the new environment.
On the other hand, all personal skills can be carried from job to job; skills that you've gained through learning and your own experiences. These, along with your qualities will help you drive success wherever you go.
Bottomline, look at what you've learned and skills you've gained from a personal and professional capacity and figure out how you can adapt them to new environments.
Hope this helps!
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
403
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Hi Caleb,
Transitioning from one industry to another can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Here are some tips to help you navigate this career transition successfully:
Self-Assessment: Understand your skills and what motivates you.
Research: Learn about the new industry thoroughly.
Skills Gap: Identify and bridge any skill gaps.
Networking: Build connections in the new industry.
Transferable Skills: Highlight skills applicable to both industries.
Resume/Cover Letter: Tailor them to the new industry.
Gain Experience: Seek relevant experience through internships, etc.
Flexibility: Stay open to new opportunities and be adaptable.
Seek Guidance: Get advice from mentors or career coaches.
Persistence: Stay committed and patient through the transition.
Remember that a career transition is a journey, not a destination. Stay committed to your personal and professional growth, and embrace the opportunities that come your way.
Best of Luck,
Transitioning from one industry to another can be a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Here are some tips to help you navigate this career transition successfully:
Self-Assessment: Understand your skills and what motivates you.
Research: Learn about the new industry thoroughly.
Skills Gap: Identify and bridge any skill gaps.
Networking: Build connections in the new industry.
Transferable Skills: Highlight skills applicable to both industries.
Resume/Cover Letter: Tailor them to the new industry.
Gain Experience: Seek relevant experience through internships, etc.
Flexibility: Stay open to new opportunities and be adaptable.
Seek Guidance: Get advice from mentors or career coaches.
Persistence: Stay committed and patient through the transition.
Remember that a career transition is a journey, not a destination. Stay committed to your personal and professional growth, and embrace the opportunities that come your way.
Best of Luck,
Jim Nguyen
Senior Contract Sourcing Manager
36
Answers
South Plainfield, New Jersey
Updated
Jim’s Answer
Hi Caleb,
You can find a group or someone who is working in a job that you are interested in. Ask them to share you some details and responsibilities. If that is what you like to do, you can start going to school again if needed, and find another job within a your new interest. Networking is also important, and you can join LinkedIn to connect with other professionals.
Good luck!
You can find a group or someone who is working in a job that you are interested in. Ask them to share you some details and responsibilities. If that is what you like to do, you can start going to school again if needed, and find another job within a your new interest. Networking is also important, and you can join LinkedIn to connect with other professionals.
Good luck!
Violaine Gonzalez
Senior Associate
113
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Violaine’s Answer
Hi Caleb, hope this helps. Self-Assessment: Assess your skills and interests.
Research: Study your target industry thoroughly.
Networking: Connect with professionals in the new field.
Education and Training: Consider additional qualifications.
Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant experiences.
Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships or freelance work.
Be Flexible: Open up to various roles and opportunities.
Seek Mentorship: Find guidance from industry insiders.
Stay Persistent: Keep pushing forward despite setbacks.
Stay Positive: Embrace learning and growth.
These condensed tips should provide a quick overview of the key points to consider when transitioning to a new industry.
Research: Study your target industry thoroughly.
Networking: Connect with professionals in the new field.
Education and Training: Consider additional qualifications.
Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant experiences.
Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships or freelance work.
Be Flexible: Open up to various roles and opportunities.
Seek Mentorship: Find guidance from industry insiders.
Stay Persistent: Keep pushing forward despite setbacks.
Stay Positive: Embrace learning and growth.
These condensed tips should provide a quick overview of the key points to consider when transitioning to a new industry.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4349
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Caleb,
Guidelines for Successfully Shifting Careers Between Industries:
Transitioning your career to a different industry can be a daunting yet fulfilling journey. Here are some practical steps to ensure a successful transition:
Self-Reflection: Prior to diving into a new industry, it's crucial to evaluate your abilities, strengths, and passions. Pinpoint skills that are adaptable across various sectors and see how they match with the needs of your prospective industry.
Investigate the Prospective Industry: Carry out an in-depth study of the industry you're aiming to enter. Familiarize yourself with its trends, major players, job market demand, and necessary qualifications. This knowledge will enable you to customize your resume, cover letter, and interview answers to highlight your suitability and enthusiasm for the new field.
Build Connections: Establishing connections is key when shifting industries. Connect with professionals in your prospective industry via networking events, LinkedIn, informational interviews, and professional groups. Forming relationships with those already in the industry can offer valuable insights, guidance, and potential job openings.
Enhance Your Skills: Recognize any skills gaps between your current proficiency and the needs of the new industry. Think about enrolling in courses, obtaining certifications, or gaining relevant experience through internships or volunteer work to fill these gaps and boost your qualifications.
Revamp Your Resume and Cover Letter: Modify your resume and cover letter to emphasize pertinent experiences, skills, and achievements that prove your fit for the new industry. Use industry-specific keywords to increase your likelihood of getting through applicant tracking systems.
Embrace Adaptability and Openness: Welcome the need for flexibility and be open to starting in entry-level positions or roles that may not perfectly match your past experience. Show a willingness to learn and adapt swiftly to the new setting while showing eagerness for growth and development.
Find a Mentor: Seek a mentor in the new industry who can offer guidance, advice, and support as you maneuver your career shift. A mentor can provide valuable insights from their own experiences and help you sidestep common missteps.
Keep a Positive Attitude and Persevere: Career shifts can be tough and may involve dealing with rejection or obstacles along the way. Stay optimistic, embrace a growth mindset, and persist through challenges with resilience and determination.
Invest in Your Professional Growth: Regularly invest in your professional growth by participating in workshops, seminars, webinars, or pursuing further education relevant to your new career path. Keep abreast of industry trends and best practices to stay competitive in the job market.
Monitor Your Progress: Keep track of your progress during the career shift process by setting goals, noting achievements, seeking feedback from mentors or peers, and tweaking your strategies as needed to stay on track towards reaching your career objectives.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review
Forbes
The Balance Careers
Blessings,
James C.
Guidelines for Successfully Shifting Careers Between Industries:
Transitioning your career to a different industry can be a daunting yet fulfilling journey. Here are some practical steps to ensure a successful transition:
Self-Reflection: Prior to diving into a new industry, it's crucial to evaluate your abilities, strengths, and passions. Pinpoint skills that are adaptable across various sectors and see how they match with the needs of your prospective industry.
Investigate the Prospective Industry: Carry out an in-depth study of the industry you're aiming to enter. Familiarize yourself with its trends, major players, job market demand, and necessary qualifications. This knowledge will enable you to customize your resume, cover letter, and interview answers to highlight your suitability and enthusiasm for the new field.
Build Connections: Establishing connections is key when shifting industries. Connect with professionals in your prospective industry via networking events, LinkedIn, informational interviews, and professional groups. Forming relationships with those already in the industry can offer valuable insights, guidance, and potential job openings.
Enhance Your Skills: Recognize any skills gaps between your current proficiency and the needs of the new industry. Think about enrolling in courses, obtaining certifications, or gaining relevant experience through internships or volunteer work to fill these gaps and boost your qualifications.
Revamp Your Resume and Cover Letter: Modify your resume and cover letter to emphasize pertinent experiences, skills, and achievements that prove your fit for the new industry. Use industry-specific keywords to increase your likelihood of getting through applicant tracking systems.
Embrace Adaptability and Openness: Welcome the need for flexibility and be open to starting in entry-level positions or roles that may not perfectly match your past experience. Show a willingness to learn and adapt swiftly to the new setting while showing eagerness for growth and development.
Find a Mentor: Seek a mentor in the new industry who can offer guidance, advice, and support as you maneuver your career shift. A mentor can provide valuable insights from their own experiences and help you sidestep common missteps.
Keep a Positive Attitude and Persevere: Career shifts can be tough and may involve dealing with rejection or obstacles along the way. Stay optimistic, embrace a growth mindset, and persist through challenges with resilience and determination.
Invest in Your Professional Growth: Regularly invest in your professional growth by participating in workshops, seminars, webinars, or pursuing further education relevant to your new career path. Keep abreast of industry trends and best practices to stay competitive in the job market.
Monitor Your Progress: Keep track of your progress during the career shift process by setting goals, noting achievements, seeking feedback from mentors or peers, and tweaking your strategies as needed to stay on track towards reaching your career objectives.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review
Forbes
The Balance Careers
Blessings,
James C.
Megan McCoy
Career Coach
158
Answers
Lakeland, Florida
Updated
Megan’s Answer
I think this is becoming pretty common for people to transition. There are certain places that even pouch nontraditional career paths. For example, there are a lot of places that will look to recruit transitioning teachers.
Part of it is transitional skills. Do you have transitional skills that are adjacent or helpful to the career you are transitioning into? You might think that you do not but really look at the job description and focus on how the skills you have now could serve you in the new career.
The other big part is networking. Make connections with leaders or HR people in the career you want to transition to. Ask them what you need to do to transition. You can start by using LinkedIn to connect. Or look into joining a Young Professionals Network in your area. Career fairs are also helpful for networking.
I hope this helps!
Part of it is transitional skills. Do you have transitional skills that are adjacent or helpful to the career you are transitioning into? You might think that you do not but really look at the job description and focus on how the skills you have now could serve you in the new career.
The other big part is networking. Make connections with leaders or HR people in the career you want to transition to. Ask them what you need to do to transition. You can start by using LinkedIn to connect. Or look into joining a Young Professionals Network in your area. Career fairs are also helpful for networking.
I hope this helps!