Three tips to ease the transition to a new field

Since COVID-19, more than 1 million veterans have filed for unemployment benefits due to sudden and unexpected loss of employment. Because of this, some job seekers are taking their skills to new industries due to the rapidly changing economic landscape. Transitioning to a new field can be overwhelming enough on its own, but coupled with a global pandemic, and it can seem daunting. However, with the right plan, you can overcome obstacles and find success. Use these three tips to stay competitive and on the right track toward a new career.

1. Strategize.

Assess your skills and strategically determine your new career goals. Figure out your three biggest strengths and how you want to use them in your new career. Decide what is important to you. Whether it is salary, company culture, location, or a combination of those things,  narrow down your selections into viable options. Utilize free assessment tools to assist in matching your skills with a new career path. Try out a few and see where they lead you.

2. Revise your resume.

Tailor your resume to each position by writing your resume around your strengths. Carefully read the job description and identify the skills and knowledge required. Your resume needs to show that you are capable of doing the job and it should highlight your strengths throughout, so choose your format carefully. For major career changes, a  functional resume format may be best to emphasize marketable skills for specific positions.

3. Network, Network, Network.

Building a network virtually can be a snap with LinkedIn. Simply search your connections to find individuals in your desired industry. Send notes with your connection requests to make a professional and friendly introduction. Share your knowledge by responding thoughtfully and positively to posts.  Next, to learn more about people and organizations, schedule informational interviews via phone, Zoom, or Google Hangouts.  Once you establish relationships, you can ask for more information or inside referrals for positions that interest you.  Lastly, connect with professional organizations. Many have temporarily switched to virtual meetings due to COVID-19, and everyone’s new normal provides common ground that eases the first-meeting awkwardness when seeking new connections.

Do NOT face your career change alone! Working with a Hire Heroes USA Transition Specialist ensures that you will be guided by a trained professional at each stage of your job search. Our Transition Specialists are skilled in helping you strategize your job search process, choose the correct resume format, and provide concrete networking advice.