For professionals who’ve spent years honing their skills in a niche industry, making a career change can feel daunting. Employers often favour candidates with direct experience, making it challenging for those looking to transition into new sectors.

If you’re feeling stuck, the good news is that shifting careers is possible with the right approach. Whether you’re looking for greater job security, new challenges, or a better alignment with your values.

Here are five practical steps to successfully pivot your career.

1. Understand Employer Concerns—Then Address Them

Employers often prefer candidates from the same industry because they understand the specific language, challenges, and trends. They also value candidates who have worked in similar-sized companies or geographic locations, believing this ensures a smoother transition.

If you’re moving into a new sector, it’s important to acknowledge these concerns and proactively address them. Do your research—learn the key trends, terminology, and major players in your target industry. Develop a clear plan for how you’ll add value from day one, minimising any perceived learning curve for potential employers.

2. Identify Your Transferable Skills

One of the biggest challenges for career changers is helping employers see how their experience applies to a different field. Employers won’t automatically connect the dots for you—it’s up to you to highlight the skills that translate across industries.

For example, if you’ve worked in commercial real estate and are shifting into another sector, look for common challenges and skills that overlap. Perhaps you’ve navigated market fluctuations, led negotiations, or managed stakeholder relationships—these are all valuable skills that can be reframed for a new industry.

In your job applications and interviews, use specific examples to showcase these transferable skills. Demonstrate how your experience has equipped you for success in a new role, rather than simply stating that you’re willing to learn.

3. Craft a Clear and Compelling Narrative

Your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile should all reflect the career you’re moving towards, not just the one you’re leaving behind. This means minimising industry-specific jargon from your previous role and focusing on broader skills that appeal to employers across sectors.

To strengthen your credibility, immerse yourself in your new field—join industry associations, attend networking events, and take relevant courses. Not only does this enhance your resume, but it also demonstrates genuine commitment to your career transition.

4. Expand Your Network and Build Credibility

Networking is crucial when making a career change. Many job opportunities come through referrals, so connecting with professionals in your target industry can open doors that traditional job applications won’t.

Seek out mentors or peers who have successfully made similar transitions. Attend industry events, engage in online forums, and build relationships with professionals who can vouch for your skills and potential. A recommendation from someone already established in your new field can provide a significant boost to your job search.

5. Be Open to Alternative Pathways

If you’re struggling to land a full-time role in your new field, consider alternative entry points. Contract work, consulting, or adjacent roles can provide valuable experience while helping you build credibility in the industry.

Taking on a short-term contract or consulting gig allows you to gain hands-on experience and make connections within the field. Similarly, an adjacent role—one that may not be your ultimate goal but aligns with your target industry—can serve as a stepping stone towards your ideal career path.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning into a new field after years of specialisation is challenging, but not impossible. By understanding employer concerns, showcasing transferable skills, refining your personal brand, and leveraging your network, you can position yourself as a strong candidate in a new industry.

At First People Recruitment Solutions, we support professionals at every stage of their career journey. If you’re looking to pivot into a new role and need expert guidance, reach out to our team today.