Changing Careers as an Executive? Here Are Some Tips to Create a Smooth Transition

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Switching careers at the executive level can seem like an impossible task. But the reality is that it happens more often than you might think. As more high-level professionals discover new passions later in their careers, they realize that true happiness is found in making sure their jobs line up with their personal and professional needs.

Have you thought about switching careers but have felt intimidated by the process? especially writing a new resume? The transition can be relatively smooth if you consider the following ways to make your move:

Thoroughly Study the New Industry

As an executive who has focused on one career for many years, there's no doubt that you probably know your field inside and out. If you want to switch to a new field, you have your work cut out for you in attempting to duplicate the level of wisdom and insight you've acquired from your many years of hard work.

The good news is that, when entering your new field, you don't have to possess the same level of wisdom. But you do need to take time and really study some of its important ups and downs to help you smoothly navigate into a new position when the time is right.

Fortunately for you, the Internet age is thriving, giving you the opportunity to not only study all of the historical and up-to-date information about your field that you could want, but also almost all of the companies for which you'd like to work. Think about what it is you'd want someone working for you to know about the industry you are leaving, and then take time to learn information about the new company in order to help you write a better resume.

Create a Common Ground Between Your Old and New Careers

One thing that is important when writing your resume is finding a way to create a bridge between your old career and the one you're hoping to switch to. Hiring managers will immediately recognize that you don't have a background specifically in the position you're applying for. Don't make them have to guess how it is that you will be able to use one background to excel in a new career. Take time to create that common ground on your own by highlighting aspects of your career that you feel can enhance a company's goals.

But don't spend time comparing and contrasting; in other words, don't send the message, 'I'm not from your field, but can you hire me anyway. Instead, push to let the company know you're simply the right person, that's all. Let them ask you questions about gaps and concerns after you score your interview.
 

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