If you have decided to change industries but are not sure how to achieve your goals, this article will provide several ideas to help you be more successful.
1. Industry Evaluations. First things first! You need to evaluate selected industries and make sure the industry is doing well. Has the industry been heavily impacted by the national recession or are they sustainable when economic problems occur? What are analysts saying about the industry today? Is the industry cutting-edge or antiquated? What is important to you? You probably want to study and analyze several industries before you make a final decision.
2. Interview Industry Professionals. Discuss the industry with people who have this experience. What do they think about it? Are they happy, or do they want to exit the industry since they know it is facing problems? Do they see a great future for the industry? Is the industry entrenched in federal regulations? What challenges has the industry faced in the last five to ten years? This is a great opportunity to undercover the ‘real’ truth about the industry and its future.
3. Your Geographic Preference. Have you decided on a geographic preference? Is the industry a dominant leader in your targeted region?
4. Selected Companies. Compile a list of targeted companies in the industry you have chosen, and in your geographic preference. For example, if you want to work in the healthcare industry in Dallas, you will need to create a list of healthcare companies in Dallas. This list will really help you in several ways, particularly with networking.
5. What Qualifications Are Needed Today? When you begin speaking with decision makers and industry professionals, you want to acquire an excellent understanding of the skills needed in the industry. Do you have any shortcomings that will need to be resolved? For example, a company in a specific industry may require certain certifications. The more information you have, the easier it will be for you to make the transition.
6. “Talk the Talk.” It is critical for you to become familiar with the industry’s terminology. This information can be gathered through networking and conversations, by reading publications and articles about the industry, by reading company blogs, and so forth. You will want to sprinkle the terminology in your marketing documents and conversations.
7. Part Time Opportunities. Consider any part-time or lower level opportunities that will allow you to gain practical experience in the industry. Is it possible to secure an internship or perform volunteer work that will be a gateway to the industry?
8. Join Industry Associations. If possible, join major industry associations and become a visible member. Attend any local or national industry conferences and network extensively. This is an outstanding opportunity for you to speak with countless professionals who have extensive industry experience and can support your career decision.
9. Intelligence Gathering. Read any online and offline publications and articles you can find on the industry. Be sure to read blogs written by industry professionals. Don’t forget to use linkedin.com, zoominfo.com, twitter.com, spoke.com, and other information related websites.
10. Resume Writing. Once you have this information, you will be able to position yourself for a new industry. Leverage the information you have gleaned, and transform it into significant information that sells your ability to deliver critical accomplishments.
JoAnn Nix is a Certified Professional Resume Writer and Career Coach with nearly 18 years of experience. She has helped thousands of professionals with career transitions. She may be reached at info@agreatresume.com or 1-800-265-6901.
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Posted by: Professional cv | October 13, 2011 at 08:09 AM