Many types of transitions can occur in just one career: from unemployed to employed, from a large company to a small company, from college student to first-time employee, from for-profit to nonprofit, from one field to another, from self-employed to a corporate employee, from supervisor to executive—up, down, sideways, and roundabout.
These days, employers set fewer barriers to hiring job applicants who are making a transition. They even value the broader experience, skill set, and perspective that come with an unconventional career path. They know that those job applicants probably have strong adaptive skills; that is, they are trainable, able to grow as the company grows, can meet the challenges of constant change, and can communicate with others both inside and outside their job description.
As a Job and Career Transition Coach, I am certified to help transitioning job seekers understand both their goals and their options. I help them explore their past career path and find the best path forward. I help them articulate their strengths so that their value as a transitioning employee comes across in job interviews as well as in their resumes.
Here are four ways to make your transition go smoother:
- Prepare yourself for the transition in advance by getting necessary certifications, training, or degrees. Pursue volunteer, Board positions, and consulting jobs that provide opportunities to exercise or develop skills you do not use on your current job.
- Ask for endorsements and recommendations that you can post on LinkedIn and other professional sites, to show how others value your contribution.
- Make sure your resume is written for the job you want. Focus on accomplishments that show your transferable skills and how they benefited your past employers.
- Network in person as well as online, especially at professional associations and gatherings where you can connect one-on-one with potential employers and those who can give you referrals.
If you need help with your transition and your resume, please contact Robin’s Resumes® today.