How to Change Careers When You Don't Have the Experience

We've all been there. Wanting to switch jobs or transition into a new career, but having no idea where to start. I'll let you in on a secret, not having all of the required experience or meeting all of the job requirements is actually pretty normal. There's no need to look at a job description and give up. Similarly, you also don’t want to start applying to random jobs that are not aligned to your profile. So what's the solution? The simplest way to change careers when you don't have the experience is to do the following:

Don't Go After the Career Transition Alone

Talk to someone who is currently or has experience doing the role that you're interested. Not reaching out to someone who can help you, only slows down your progress. For example, if you’re in retail and you’re thinking of transitioning into Human Resources, the first thing you need to do is to find someone in Human Resources on LinkedIn and you ask them for 15 minutes of their time.

Here's 3 questions you should ask:

1. What are the skills that are required for the role?

2. What are their day to day responsibilities?

3. How would they recommend getting into the field?

Start Speaking the Language of Who You Want to Become

You want it to be clear that you belong in that role. When a person comes to your LinkedIn profile, or comes across your resume, they need to see terms and language that they are familiar with. For example, if you want to become a manager, you have to start speaking the language of a leader. Check out other leaders in your desired field to understand what they are taking about and what language they use.

Use Your Current Experience to Get to Where You Want to Be

Your job is a two-way street. Your employer is getting what they want from you—make sure you are getting what you want in return. You likely have gained many skills in your current role that align to your desired role. Alternatively you can take on stretch role or volunteer in other departments at your employer to get the experience you seek. It's a lot easier to get your current employer to take a chance on you, then it is to get a new employer to do the same. Whenever possible, aim to make a transition while you already have the advantage of trust with your employer.

Take the leap and go after the position you want!

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Gerrie Dozier is an experienced engineering leader, STEM career coach and speaker. She helps professionals in STEM careers secure new jobs, better career opportunities and 5 figure salary increases. CONNECT ON LINKEDIN

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