the Interview Expert Newsletter

 
Greetings!
Welcome to your latest issue of the Interview Expert newsletter.

Every issue explores the key elements of a successful job interview and strategic job search techniques - so you can master your skills and land the job you really want!

Do you want to start a new career but don't know how to get hired without having specific experience in that field?  This issue gives you 5 secrets for successfully making a mid-career leap.
The Five Secrets To Successfully Make a Mid-Career Leap

One of the most challenging and satisfying changes you can make in your work life is transitioning to a new field at the midpoint of your career.   I made 3 major career transitions (logistics to not-for-profit management to technical management consulting) prior to seeking my mid-career change about 10 years ago.  But after years in technical consulting, it took me a while to figure out how to land a job in a new consulting specialty.  Here are the 5 secrets I learned that helped me leap into that new field mid-career.

Secret #1:  Maintain Focus

It's ok to research several fields of interest at the same time, at least initially. Just ensure you set out a list of decision making criteria before you start. After your initial research is over [set a time limit for yourself], review each field against your criteria and then commit to focusing on one career option.  It's focus that will help you naturally sell yourself when you network.

Secret #2:  Look for Something Familiar

A career transition is easier if you can change careers within the same industry or similar types of organizations.   I was a consultant in a large global consulting firm.  So, my networking didn't result in job offers when I talked to small firms.  The small firms wanted and needed someone with a readymade book of business in their specialty.  It was only when I met with large global consulting firms that my message gained traction.   I could talk their language and speak directly to their issues so they could clearly see the payoff of hiring me.

Secret #3:  Use Networking Not Your Resume

It's networking that will get you into your new career, not applying online.  And, it's very important to avoid giving networking contacts your resume before they are serious about hiring you.  That way you lessen the impact of being defined by your past career.   In my case, I gave my resume to the hiring partner after he asked for it a several times.  I kept telling him I was working on it.  

Secret #4: Talk About Core Issues

The key to successfully selling yourself into a new career is identifying the organization's core issue.  For my own mid-career transition, I focused on how I could help them make money by emphasizing my track-record in "getting and keeping clients".   To find the core issue, think of ways you've used your expertise to help companies make or save money.

Secret #5:  Leave the Details Out

When I described my skills and accomplishments, I stayed away from including specific details that reinforced my past business experience as a technical  consultant.  I talked about my clients and the projects I led in a broad context.  Do the same in your resume.

I used these 5 secrets successfully several times since launching into that new consulting field.  They really work.  Use them to help you pave the way to launching your new career. 

And, if you need help to figuring out how to make your mid-career change, give me a call.  I provide free 20-minute consultations to help you sort through the issues, get focused and be inspired to move forward to land the job you really want.

Can't get past the first interview?
Are you always a close second in the final round?
It could be your interview skills.
 
We help you master the language of results, solutions and outcomes by providing you personalized, professional, one-on-one coaching so you can land the job you really want!
 
Sincerely,
 
Heather
 
Heather McNab
the Interview Expert 
 
416-239-4406
[email protected]      
 
Training top professionals who give their best,
to get their best:  Promotions. Jobs. Careers. 
Learn to Sell Yourself as the Solution
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Here are my recent postings:   
  

The Art of Turning Your Interview Into a Convincing Conversation

 

That Nagging Feeling The Interviewer Is Concerned About Something



 
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