When browsing through job descriptions, it’s easy to get the impression that many roles are incredibly siloed. It begins to look a bit like competing companies are just shuffling talent around between one another – and in a lot of ways that’s exactly what they’re doing. However, there exists a great opportunity to grow your career. You may have somewhat of an uphill battle as you attempt to transition your new role, but with the tips below your move will be far easier.
Play up your likenesses, diminish your differences.
If you’re looking to make a transition, you can help to bridge the gap by highlighting the similarities between your current role and the one you’re looking to move into. If the organization you’re courting is big on market research, make sure your resume and your interview answers play up your relevant experience in that area.
Be vocal about your objectives.
One of the most attractive things to a hiring authority is a candidate who truly wants the job. For this reason, it will serve you well to speak early and often about what excites you about the role. Don’t be afraid to share with the hiring manager that you are actively seeking to break into the position. Companies like to hire candidates who want the job, so there is no sense in acting aloof in this case. Bring your enthusiasm for the new job to the table and be prepared to speak as to why you want to make that move.
Take the initiative outside of work.
The fact of the matter is that some barriers exist for a reason. For instance, specific tools are often only utilized in specific roles. While you may be certain that you could easily pick up new technologies, the fact remains that you will likely lose out on a position if there is a candidate who already knows the ropes and requires less training. You can help close the gap by taking the initiative to learn new skills that your current position just doesn’t give you exposure to. Take a look at relevant job descriptions. Is there a job-specific tool that comes up time and time again? If so, you’ll give yourself a huge advantage in the market if you are willing to learn it. You may even want to get certified in its use, to show off your skills and your commitment.
Preparation is key.
You may simply lack a lot of insider knowledge that others who’ve spent time in more similar roles have gained. For this reason, you should expect to prepare harder than other candidates if you want to get the job. Read articles, do your homework about potential employers, and most importantly don’t give up. You might knock it out of the park on your first interview, but you might not. Even if you don’t make the leap the first time around, you will gain invaluable insight into what you need to successfully transition. Pay attention to the interview questions you are asked, the specific tools that are mentioned, and the skillsets that are requested. If you don’t have something they’re looking for, seek it out before your next interview. Part of preparing to make a transition is learning what’s expected of you in a different role, so take advantage of the interview process as the great tool that it is for preparing you for the next stage in your career.