Advice for: Transitioning Between Industries
The reasons for wanting to transition into another industry can be far and wide. The events of the past year have had ripple effects throughout all industries. We have found the number of individuals finding themselves looking to change career direction has increased, driven largely by the demand to obtain better job satisfaction and income.
Here at Offshore Marine People and Academy (OMPA) we recognise the need to support the transition between industries and the benefits this can provide both contractor and client. We strive to make this easier for those looking to transition into the renewables industry from other neighbouring industries i.e. ex service personnel by introducing our new Technical Training Packages. Our goal is to make the renewables industry accessible to the huge talent pool out there through collective training and strong partnerships.
Why do people choose to switch careers?
As the past year has demonstrated, one of the reasons people to choose to move from one industry into another is due to a sector becoming stale, with less job demand or the opportunity for career growth.
Deciding to make a move geographically can also dramatically change the course of someone’s career, for example choosing to move from the city to the country can affect the number of jobs or types of employment available to you.
Another reason driving professionals to leave their current industries in the search of other avenues, is a thirst for change. Working in the same industry for many years can drive the need for a new challenge leading to a wish to find something new, fresh and exciting.
What are the benefits to hiring someone from a different industry?
We understand the benefits to the contractor/employee but what are the benefits to the companies hiring? Many find a lot of barriers when looking to move from one industry into another however OMPA recognise the benefits new members can bring into a company/role which often outweigh the lack of industry experience.
Individuals from across different industries can bring with them a wealth of interchangeable skills, experience and a fresh perspective to draw from. New members come with ‘fresh eyes’ and the ability to observe the industry as a newcomer, applying a different viewpoint which in turn can support new ideas and strategies.
How easy is it to switch? Know the pit falls!
In a lot of cases, specific training or relevant industry experience is needed on a CV for it to be considered by clients or companies. This can make it very challenging for those who do not showcase the relevant experience but still demonstrate the skill set required for the role.
Below we have some helpful tips on what you can do to help prepare yourself for these pitfalls and how to help overcome these:
What to do?
- Research research research! – spend the time to look into the industry you are interested in. This is important to establish which industry is the right one for you. Consider if the roles demonstrate the transferable skills you already hold, investigate any potential training required, how many roles are available within your geographic area, will the transition require you to move, will the move be financially viable? Learn all you can about the industry in order to make an informed decision about your potential career change.
- Tailor your CV to the industry/job role you are applying for – Produce a skills-based CV to highlight your transferable skills i.e. if the new role you are looking at requires a strong engineering background, put all engineering experience at the forefront of your CV and highlight simply and clearly how these skills can be transferred easily and how they are relevant to the new industry you are targeting. Show your major achievements in bullet point format with short, sharp, meaningful facts.
- Networking and new connections are key – research networking events within your chosen industry. Attending these events will help you connect with individuals established in the industry and help you build a contact base. Following and connecting with industry professionals on LinkedIn platforms will also help you build your connections and keep up to date with what is happening within the industry.
- Prepare to invest in additional training – if you are able to show a willingness to fill any skill gaps you may have with additional training, it will show dedication to the cause and prove you are happy to invest in your future within a new industry.
- Be prepared to climb the ladder if required – unfortunately it may be very difficult to enter into a new industry at the same level/salary you were previously enjoying in your former career. However, if it is financially viable to take a steppingstone approach and begin at a junior level, you will find this path can quickly gain you access to the industry ladder as you acquire that all important industry knowledge and experience along the way.
- Stay positive – When discussing your reasons for moving industries, stay positive. If your experience was not a pleasant one in your last industry try to steer clear of any negative comments and concentrate on why the move is a positive one, what you will look to gain from it (i.e. new skills, better work life balance, a chance to move closer to family, etc) and what the company will gain (i.e. your transferable skill set and experience, a fresh perspective, someone who is mouldable and does not come with preconceived notions, full commitment from an individual looking to make their mark in the industry). Removing any negative comments allows you to use the positives to your advantage to engage the client / company.