How to manage a mid-career industry change

So, you’re at the mid-level part of your career and positive changes are afoot. However, you don’t see them happening in your current industry. It can be daunting when you decide the industry you work in is one you don’t want to continue progressing in. It could be you work in fashion, but the food industry is calling for your digital marketing skills!

Maybe you’re an ecommerce manager, who wants to move from your tech start-up and into the beauty industry? Whatever your ecommerce specialism may be, don’t feel you can’t take your skills into a new industry. What’s holding you back? We understand it can seem tricky – you may think that no fashion brand would hire someone without prior fashion experience. From what the pandas have seen, this isn’t always the case.

Yes, some luxury brands will say prior luxury experience is essential while others are more open to the candidates they see. Here are a few things to help you get over the fear of making a change at the middle stage of your career and make it a success! It doesn’t mean taking a step back Many people might think that changing industry means accepting an entry level role…. WRONG! Your experience is still valid and it’s about positioning what you have achieved in a way that would speak to a hiring manager within your desired new industry!

You must know why you’re making this big step

When changing industry, it’s likely you will be asked more questions to determine your suitability for a new job in a new industry. What is making you unhappy in your current industry and what will make you happy in the future? How will the industry you want to move into bring out the best in you – and how will you show this in interviews and applications?

Your network is stronger than you think

So, you might feel your professional network won’t have much insight on the industry you want to move into – perhaps many of your contacts are working in your current industry. This doesn’t mean they don’t have wisdom to share. Someone you know just might have made a move like the one you’re considering!

You can also establish new relationships

If you’re prepared to change industry, you should be prepared to make new work relationships. You can start this before you even start updating your CV and applying for new roles. The benefits of your long term professional relationships shouldn't be ignored, but speaking to people with relevant and up to date insights on your desired industry is an invaluable way to seek advice.

Your skills are transferrable…be creative when showing this

We guess you’re not quite sure how to present a CV or covering letter with no direct experience in the industry you want to get involved in.

It’s easier than you think! The main goal is to convey your passion and excitement about this industry and how each skill can be applied using this passion. Giving examples of what you have done and what you plan to do is a big plus too! Just tell yourself: ‘This isn’t impossible.’ That’s right! This isn’t an impossible move for you to make – it’s all about your confidence, getting advice and positioning your passion for the industry at the forefront of your mid-career change. Want more advice about changing industry?

Contact the pandas today – we’ve helped plenty of ecommerce superstars achieve career happiness!