Pursuit Strategy: Five Key Actions When Opting for a Career Transition

Transitional Guide: Five Strategies for Transitioning Professionally when Seeking a New Career Path

Dieneria Brown, heading the People & Culture department at PushBlack, focuses on improving employee experiences within HR.*

There's a significant shift in job stability expectations. The old norm of staying with one company for decades is less prevalent now. With each new generation joining the workforce, job switches are becoming more prevalent. Surprisingly, "91% of Millennials anticipate changing jobs every 3 years." While a few professionals opt to stay in their present field, many explore new career paths altogether.

If your current profession doesn't satisfy you anymore or if you're eager to explore different industries, a career transition could be just the solution. However, in a cut-throat job market, it can seem challenging to secure a role outside your current field. With the proper planning, though, you can make it happen.

5 Steps For Initiating A Career Transition

Developing a clear strategy can make the daunting task of transitioning careers less daunting. Here are five suggestions to help you approach this process systematically and methodically.

1. Consider potential new careers.

As you prepare to move away from your existing career, imagine what your new one could look like. Picture where you can flourish, what your interests are, and what abilities you can offer. Is there a certain sector you're drawn towards? Do you perform better in small- or large-scale organizations? Are you willing to work in non-profit or government sectors? These questions will guide you in assembling a list of professions and roles to explore. With those insights, you've taken the first step towards a career transition.

2. Assess your transferable skills.

Before launching an official job search, establish your value as a candidate. For example, do you possess experience with software commonly utilized in another field? Do you have transferable skills such as project management, public speaking, and analytical thinking? Is your degree or major frequently listed in job postings for the field you're interested in?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you're already a strong candidate for a career transition. If not, you'll want to focus on acquiring skills applicable to various roles. Your current employer may offer learning opportunities like volunteering for a committee, covering for a colleague on leave, or joining a cross-departmental project. You can also develop these skills independently through professional organizations, online courses, or in-person workshops. Once you have a broad skill set, your marketability will increase. Then you're ready to dive into the job hunt.

3. Seek roles that match your new aspirations.

Examine job listings for roles aligned with your desired field. Make a list of commonly required skills, software, and educational requirements. By comparing these to your own resume and experience, you can identify roles that are tailored to your skillset. However, it's not time to apply yet.

4. Showcase your story in your cover letter.

When transitioning careers, you'll need to demonstrate how your background in another field or industry provides value. Your cover letter provides an opportunity to explain your transition and highlight how skills from your current career are versatile assets. Don't forget to update your cover letter for each position you apply to, but having a starting template is beneficial.

5. Gain endorsements from industry experts.

Lastly, having advocates within the field you wish to enter will strengthen your credibility. Do you know a former colleague or industry contact who can vouch for you? If not, networking is key. Utilize LinkedIn for online connections, and attend industry events and conferences for face-to-face interactions with experts and hiring teams.

Transitioning careers requires a thorough understanding of the new industry and presenting your transferable skills to potential employers in an appealing manner. Remember, your unique background can make you stand out from other candidates. To maximize your chances of success, effectively showcase your abilities and submit a powerful application that tells your story persuasively.

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Dieneria Brown, recognizing the changing job landscape and the increasing tendency of Millennials to switch jobs every 3 years, might incorporate strategies to support employees navigating career transitions within the HR department at PushBlack.

As Dieneria Brown explores potential new careers for employees in PushBlack, she may consider the benefits of seeking endorsements from industry experts as a way to strengthen their credibility in the new field.