Over the last year, people have been quitting their jobs at a record pace, known as, The Great Resignation. Many individuals have left industries they worked in for years to try something new and completely different because of changing mindsets, goals, and priorities.
I received a bachelor's degree in Hospitality Business, and I have spent the last seven years working in the hospitality industry. I didn't think I would ever leave, but after so much change over the last few years, my priorities changed for my career. With that change, I knew I would have to change industries. I followed these steps to help me figure out how I could transition into a technology company that works with architecture, engineering, and construction companies.
- Figure out why you want to make this change.
Before you start to explore other industries, you need to first know why you are looking for the change. This is a question that no one else can answer but you. What is your motivation for wanting to switch careers? What is your desired outcome from this change? Are you looking for a different lifestyle?
Once you know and understand what you are looking for, it will help narrow down potential new industries or career paths.
- Make a list of your strengths and your skills.
Take the time to think about what you enjoy in your current role and previous roles. Then take the time to list your strengths. These skills are going to become your transferable skills. This list will help you during your research.
- Research industries and career paths that would work well with your skills.
With an idea of your transferable skills, you should start looking at what industries or types of companies pair well with your transferable skills—research these industries to understand the full scope. Reach out to people within your network that have that industry experience, find out what the top companies are within that area of focus and research benefits.
Another way to research would be to focus on a particular job or career path. Find out what job roles work well with your skills and interests. This is the route I took, I found the customer success industry, and I realized how easily my hospitality skills would transfer to becoming a customer success manager.
Once you have focused on a particular industry or career path, you can start researching job descriptions within multiple companies. This research will help you understand job tasks, work lifestyle, and salary expectations. Once you know what skills are needed, you should also list skills that you should develop further to transition into this career or industry.
- Determine specific examples.
Take the time to think of different scenarios and accomplishments throughout your career that demonstrates your transferable skills and speaks to those experiences. You will be questioned about why you are looking for a change and why you think you would be a good fit for the job, so it is important to explain why you would be a good fit. Prepping for your interview with the reasons will show that you are serious about making a change. Making it as easy as possible for the person interviewing you to understand your reasoning will leave little room for doubt.
- Update your resume and LinkedIn.
Once you have researched and decided which direction you would like to go in, take the time to update your resume and relevant social media information. Customize your resume with information that is relevant to your ideal position. For example, I transitioned from a sales position to a position that worked post-sale. With the sales position, I had metrics and numbers listed on my resume, but once I started looking for a new position, I changed my description to focus on the skills I would need for the position I was interviewing for. I also took advantage of cover letters to further explain my reasoning for changing industries.
Following these steps helped me develop a plan, and I was able to find a position that is exactly what I was looking for. When you follow what you're skilled in and what motivates you, this helps guide your search but most importantly, understanding your 'why' will make sure it is a successful transition.
