[Editor’s Note: The HR Guru is a column from Kalibrr answering all your HR-related questions. For this release, Kalibrr answers concerns about pivoting your career to another industry.]

Dear HR Guru,

I’m an experienced marketing professional who’s been in financial services for several years. I just turned 35, but I feel like I’ve reached a plateau in my career. I’m looking to break into a different industry where I can unlock my full potential. But how can I switch to an entirely new field when employers tend to look for someone with industry knowledge? How can I make this kind of transition? Do you have any tips? 

Thank you, 
Stuck in a Rut 

Dear Stuck in a Rut,

It seems that you are unhappy and unfulfilled in your current work, and you’d like to move from one industry to another. However, you are concerned about making that smooth career transition and venturing into new territory in your mid-30s. 

It is common for people to reevaluate their lives in times of crisis, and people change jobs and industries all the time. Sometimes moving to an organization with a different product, service, or mission can be refreshing and rewarding. 

I understand how you’re feeling. Over the years, I had to shift industries from business process outsourcing (BPO) to technology, and it wasn’t easy. BPO and technology may seem similar, but they are very distinct sectors with varying nuances. However, as I moved between different industries, I discovered what I was passionate about. I have also developed a variety of expertise and built a diverse network along the way. 

Pivoting your career to a new industry may be challenging. However, companies now realize that the recruitment process is becoming more about potential, not only resumes. 

There can be satisfying benefits to shifting gears. Based on my personal experience, I would like to give you some advice on how to move to an entirely new industry successfully: 

Assess which skills will transfer

Transitioning to a new sector may not necessarily mean you start anew. List all your skills, especially those that could apply to your new field. Identify those that are “transferable,” such as communication skills, project management abilities, attention to detail, or customer focus.

Revise your resume and online profiles

As you switch to a completely different industry, it may be better to use a functional resume structure. Highlight the most relevant and transferable skills. Make sure you present your most outstanding achievements as well. Add all the new skills you have acquired, modify the interests section to reflect your enthusiasm for the new industry, and tweak your personal statement to explain why you want to move to a new field.

When revising your resume, Kalibrr profile, and other tools, use familiar language in the industry where you’re going.

Tap into your network

Don’t feel like you need to start a whole new network. Let your close friends and trusted confidants know that you are considering a move, and share details about what you are looking for. Try to connect with as many people in your new industry through social media and business events.

Set up informational interviews at companies where you are interested in working; do not be afraid to introduce yourself to employers on LinkedIn or ask friends for an introduction.

Know the industry

Learn about job titles, salary ranges, and career opportunities. Research the industry’s needs, trends, and key players. Educate yourself on common terminology.

Once you have insight into your new career path, you will better understand what it will take for this to happen.

Stay positive

When it comes to important career decisions like changing industries, it’s not just what you do that counts. Your outlook is equally important. Take smaller steps for a smoother transition. Create a timeline and list of things to do. Don’t ever stop learning new skills.

Changing industries may seem frightening, but it’s also exciting. With the right preparation and perspective, you can make a fulfilling pivot. 

More than anything, if you are looking to switch, don’t be afraid to start at the bottom of the ladder. That mindset, coupled with your previous experience and skills, will be an asset that will help you in your new career path. Remember that what you lack as a newcomer, you more than make up for in energy, enthusiasm, and new ideas. With your credentials and, more importantly, your can-do attitude, you should be able to rise up in no time. 

I wish you success in your career as you move forward.

Happy hunting! 
Paul, your HR Guru

About the Column: Paul Rivera is the co-founder and CEO of Kalibrr, a careers platform for over 4 million young professionals and more than 18,000 of the most innovative companies in Southeast Asia. In the next few weeks, he will be answering any questions and giving advice about employment, getting hired, and getting a hire in the Future of Work. 

PAUL RIVERA. Photo courtesy of Kalibrr.

Need advice as a jobseeker or as an HR professional? Email your questions at hiretalent@kalibrr.com or send them a message on Facebook. – Rappler.com