How do you make the switch from technology to non-technology job? If you work in the IT department of a company, there’s an assumption that you’ll stay there forever. But some people are able to switch – I talked to three people who did it, and here’s what they said about how they were able to make the change.
Seven keys to finding a job in a non-technical role
There are a few common patterns I've seen among technical professionals who make a successful transition into business roles. Here are some of my tips on how you can find a job in a non-technical role.
Play to your strengths
Before you start applying for those coding gigs, think long and hard about your passion. What do you really love? If you’re more of a creative person, try focusing on roles in that field. If business development makes your heart beat faster, then dive into a job search in that area. Switching careers is challenging enough; narrowing down your focus as much as possible will help you find something faster. No matter what field you’re looking at, there are companies hiring for positions that play to your strengths—it just might take some work to find them.
Market yourself as you would any other product/service
Set yourself apart in a crowded market: You’re likely not alone in your field, so you need to make sure potential employers know that you’re someone worth hiring. Your resume is a great place to start; it should highlight previous experiences and credentials that are most relevant for your desired position. Once you have an idea of what type of role you want, start researching companies that hire candidates like you. Learn more about their culture, day-to-day responsibilities and perks they offer employees. And always take time to personalize your cover letter and resume before applying—it will show that you took time and effort toward ensuring they’re tailored specifically for that company and job title. All these elements together make up a standout application package!
Ask your network
It’s easier than ever to get in touch with former colleagues and contacts, but don’t be afraid to follow up on connections even if you don’t hear back immediately. While you may have gotten in touch for one reason, follow-up emails can open up many more doors (and opportunities). The hardest part is getting started—if you wait until your network is fully developed, you might never get going. There are a number of email templates available online that will make it easy for you to reach out. Just keep an eye out for emails that offer encouragement and praise. Your goal is to come across as professional and courteous, not aggressive or annoying.
Always be on the lookout
It's important to keep your eyes open for other opportunities as you make your way through a career. Even if you love what you do and don't have any immediate plans to leave, it's helpful to know about other jobs—in case an opportunity presents itself in the future. That's not just a good idea for folks looking for new positions. Career experts recommend keeping tabs on outside interests, whether it’s learning how to play an instrument or taking a boxing class once a week. Building up related skills and hobbies can be useful should your career take an unexpected turn down the road.
Use the A word (apply!)
If you're trying to leave your current job, it's essential to tell your boss before you start applying for other positions. A lot of employers appreciate honesty and, if nothing else, might be able help you find a new job within their organization. After all, in some cases staying where you are is better than taking a risk on a new opportunity—especially if you're at an established company that has plenty of room for growth. And while it might not seem like such a big deal now, remember that your industry is constantly changing; if your company folds in five years and there's nowhere else nearby hiring, no one will blame you for taking the most stable path possible at that time. And if all goes well with finding a new job? At least both sides know what happened!
Make sure you have transferable skills
When applying for a new job, make sure your resume lists all of your skills. Once you land an interview, you can explain why these skills are valuable in your new position and illustrate how they transfer over to what you'll be doing at your next job. This will help increase your chances of being hired as it shows that you are enthusiastic about making a career change and that you're willing to learn new things. It also helps employers see value in hiring someone with experience and training that's relevant even if it doesn't directly relate to their company.
Be prepared, even if you are overqualified.
If you are overqualified for a position, it’s likely that your interviewer will ask you why you want a job beneath you. Many job seekers assume that because they have more education or experience than most others in their industry, there are not many other jobs out there for them. While it is important to be proud of your achievements and happy in your career, realize that other companies may view your skills as an asset instead of a weakness. Just because some companies aren’t offering what you want doesn’t mean that no one else is hiring. Be prepared to answer questions about why you wish to change careers and demonstrate what skills you can bring to an organization despite having fewer years of experience than they might prefer.
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