Career start: Successfully positioning yourself for a new role

A career restart requires learning new skills and skillfully presenting previous experiences and competencies. You should showcase your existing knowledge in a way that aligns with your desired role. If you're ready to take this step, this guide will help you leverage your strengths and position yourself successfully in the job market.

Learn what potential employers are looking for and tailor your previous skills to match. Even without direct prior experience, you can become a compelling candidate through targeted preparation. First, you should thoroughly analyze the desired position.

One of the biggest challenges when entering a new field is competing with experienced candidates. The key to success lies in a comprehensive understanding of the desired role and its requirements. You should have a clear grasp of both the company's expectations and the general demands of the position. This knowledge allows you to realistically assess your suitability and address any knowledge gaps strategically.

A first step is to study job descriptions carefully:

• Search for at least ten job postings for the desired role using platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, or Glassdoor. Ensure that the selected ads have similar titles and closely match your preferences.
• Collect all the requirements mentioned in one document to get an overview of the expectations of different companies.
• Organize the requirements according to frequency, as more frequent criteria are more important. This will help you to recognize crucial skills and necessary knowledge.

Differences in requirements often arise due to varying interpretations of the role. A "Project Manager" may focus on client management in one company, while process optimization is more critical in another. A thorough analysis helps filter suitable positions and avoid misunderstandings.

People from your desired professional field provide valuable insights. Use your professional network, such as LinkedIn, to make connections. Ask specifically about the requirements and challenges of the role you aim for. A brief and polite inquiry can open many doors.

“Good afternoon [name],

My name is [your name], and I am currently undergoing a career change to [new field/position]. Your profile has piqued my interest and I would appreciate the opportunity to ask you a few questions about your professional experience. Thank you in advance for your time!”

Plan to speak to at least five people from your target industry to gain a deeper insight into the position. These interviews will also strengthen your ability to present yourself convincingly and confidently in job interviews.

The next step is to create a complete profile of your skills and experience. This includes:

• Technical Skills: Domain-specific knowledge such as programming, data analysis, or project management.
• Social Skills: Traits such as communication skills, teamwork, or leadership abilities.
• Personal Strengths: Character traits such as reliability or adaptability.
• Education and Training: Academic degrees, certificates, or courses that support your qualifications.

Don't forget to include experience from voluntary work or hobbies that could underline your suitability.

Create an overview of the requirements for your target role and combine it with a profile of your competencies. Highlight your key skills and demonstrate how they align with the position’s requirements. If you lack experience, emphasize your willingness to learn, adaptability, and exude confidence.

A career restart requires courage and flexibility but also opens up many new opportunities. Present your previous experiences skillfully and emphasize your strengths to capture the attention of employers. With the right preparation, you can actively and successfully shape your professional future.