As one of the leading employment agencies in Miami, Future Force knows that trying to break into a new industry or career field has always been a challenge. But it’s even more difficult today considering the number of job candidates out there on the market.
After all, if you’re new to the industry, why should an employer hire you over someone with extensive experience?
That’s the bad news. The good news is that there are some steps you can take to overcome common obstacles faced by career switchers and eventually land the job you want.
Aggressively promote your transferrable skills.
If you have the skills to do the job, it’s simply in a different industry, then highlight those abilities that are most relevant to the position. Whether you attained those skills in past jobs, or through volunteer positions, doesn’t matter. If you have the skills, you need to promote them.
Explain the unique value you offer.
Oftentimes, if a hiring manager sees a cover letter and resume from an industry switcher, it winds up in the trash. They see that person as a risk. That’s why you need to describe in detail why the hiring manager should give you a second look – with concise and valid reasons. Tell a story and paint a picture of the future – and why you should be a part of it.
Take on temporary work.
If you’d like to beef up your resume before making a career switch, then consider taking on temporary work on the side. By doing so, you’ll enhance your skill set and your resume, as well as build your industry connections – which will be invaluable when you’re ready to start your job search.
Keep your problems to yourself.
For instance, if you’re looking to change careers because your industry is dying out, don’t mention that in your cover letter or resume. That’s not an employer’s problem. Instead, highlight your enthusiasm for a new industry and why you’d be a good fit for it. Always focus on the positive.
Develop a new network of contacts.
If you’ve worked in your industry for a while, you probably have a lot of contacts in it. But if you want to make a switch, then you need to start developing contacts in the industry or field you want to work in. So join an industry association and connect with people who work in jobs similar to what you’re interested in. Ask them for advice and guidance on how to get hired.
Work with a professional.
If you’re struggling to promote your transferrable skills or sell yourself to potential employers, then consult with a professional resume writer or employment agency – like Future Force – that can help you.
As one of the leading employment agencies in Miami, we can work with you to get to know your background and skills, and then help you make the leap to a new job or a different industry. Simply contact us today to get the process started.