15
How to Change Career Fields
I am at a crossroads in my work life where I can keep working in Sales, Marketing and Customer Service but this field just doesn't motivate me like it used to. I am looking to switch into project management and willing to work my way back up but I just don't know where to start. Basics like how can I change my resume to get noticed and use the skills I have gained in one field to transition into another? Any advice is appreciated.
Search jobs in the industry that you love on LinkedIn. See what they are looking for? If you have worked in or done projects in your current or past roles highlight them in your resume. Go to jobsnac aniline and cut and paste a job description you like o better match tonyiur resume. I have done lots or projects especially in Marketing that primed my strengths in project management and you may have too! Don’t underestimate your skills, it’s all about keywords that highlight your skills and abilities. Naturally you need the know how however a six sigma course to me is not the answer. Think of when you worked on a project from beginning to end. What was the outcome? Put that in a resume and be prepared to talk about it in can interview. And interview some project managers you know ask them what they suggest? They may even know if a few openings?
Does your current employer have PMP roles? If yes, I'd start by exploring those first. If not, then think about the industry and type of company you are in, and find a project management entry level role in the exact same field, and show them what are the outcomes you can create in that role based on your current experience (on LinkedIn and your resume). Connect with peers in the field and in your current industry, and ask them what are the outcomes they are accountable for delivering in 2020. Start posting PMP articles with insightful comments, seeking to share anything those peers are sharing and give them credit in the process. All of those actions will prime the pump so that once you complete your certification, you can get a job in the field quickly. Do not fall in the trap of investing in the education without a job search system, otherwise you might be disillusioned. For a proven 7-step process you can follow, check out my free ebook at landdreamcorporatejobs.com
Also look at job postings for project management (type) positions you think would be a good fit for someone like you. (The job title may not always say "project manager.") What basic skills and qualifications do they require?
Assess your current skills and experience to see how you stack up against those requirements. What transferable skills do you have? Where are there skills or qualifications gaps and what can you do to close or compensate for those gaps?
If possible, look for ways to become involved in projects in your current role or suggest your own projects so you can gain project management experience.
Acquiring relevant certification, as Casey suggested, is another way to narrow or compensate for a gap. To qualify for the PMP you will need to document several thousand hours leading and directing projects. If you aren't able to document those hours right now, the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) may be a more immediate option. This is an entry-level certification and doesn't require documented project management experience.
Good luck!
I would start by exploring what online certifications are available. Big ones in the project management space are Lean Six Sigma and PMP, both of which you can get online on your own time. These certifications will help show you're serious about the career transition and will help complement a lack of experience. Good luck!!