Hidden Job Market Networking: Secret to Get into a New Industry

Here is a strategy that can be extremely useful when you would like to change industries. It will help you in your job search networking and, as a bonus, when you interview.

I had to develop this technique because throughout my career, after about 18 months in a position, I wanted a new one! Especially if it could be an entirely new industry or function.

If you don’t know this how your experience can be useful in a new position or industry, trust me they won’t be able to figure it out!

And it really isn’t enough to just tell them your skills are “transferrable.”

By the way, I’m really good at helping you answer these questions. Email me if you would like some assistance in making a move to a new industry.

Let’s assume your career has been in Industry A and now you want to work in Industry B. Before you start networking and interviewing, think of compelling answers to these questions:

* How is your experience in industry A an advantage to a hiring manager in industry B? 

* What did you learn by being in industry A that people who never have been anywhere than that industry would not have a chance to learn?

* What unique results will you be able to get for a company in Industry B because of what you learned in industry A?

* Look at your resume, review your experience. Begin to identify any areas where you may differ from the “ideal candidate.” Think through your answers to: how can the things that could be perceived as liabilities actually turn out to be assets for the company where you want to work?

The ultimate question to answer, even if they don’t ask:

“What is it about you and your experience that makes you a better candidate than the candidate who does have industry experience?”

Practice your answers to these questions. Be able to weave them easily and briefly into your career brand statement as well as the requests you make of those you are networking with.

So pick someone to call, get your script out, and pick up the phone. If you don’t have your scripts yet, get your copy here.

Let me know how it is going, and never hesitate to give me a call if you have any questions.

Wishing you the best!

Katherine

And of course, be sure to get this interview guide. Use it and your next interview could be your last interview!