Pivoting Forward with a Career Transition

In the fast-changing global economy, industries are constantly changing, merging, and even disappearing. Artificial intelligence has upended many industries and positions, especially in the tech industry. There are opportunities now that didn’t exist just a few years ago and roles that existed just 10 years ago that are not an option now.

For job seekers in all industries, the A.I. boom offers both a challenge and an opportunity. Now might be the right time to move if you’ve been contemplating a shift to a new industry. Here’s why an industry pivot, not just a job change, can be an advantage for your career.

Why You Should Consider an Career Pivot

1. Stay Ahead of Market and Industry Changes

Industries that thrived a decade ago may now struggle due to technological advancements, changing consumer behaviors, or economic downturns.

Think about the horse and buggy industry in the late 1800s. It dominated the personal transportation market. However, only 30 years later, it was just a small part of that market due to the advent and popularity of the automobile within that period.

Executives in traditional manufacturing sectors might consider transitioning to tech-enabled areas like green energy or advanced robotics. An HR executive in the private sector may consider a non-profit organization or government opportunity but still work in human resources. By pivoting to a growing area or industry, you can future-proof your career and position yourself as a leader in a high-demand space.

2. Use Your Transferable Skills

Leadership, strategic planning, and problem-solving all transcend industry boundaries. Your expertise in managing teams, driving results, and shaping company culture can make you valuable in virtually any sector or industry. A career pivot allows you to apply your skills in a new and exciting context.

3. Access New Job Opportunities

Moving into a new industry can reinvigorate your career. It could provide access to cutting-edge projects, new contacts, and opportunities to make a meaningful impact. It also proves adaptability, which is a key trait that benefits job searchers at all levels at any career stage.

How to Make a Successful Career Pivot

Switching industries may be daunting, but you can navigate the transition effectively with a clear strategy. Here are six steps to take:

1. Identify Your Target Industry

Start by researching industries experiencing growth and innovation. Look for sectors aligned with your skills, values, and interests. For instance, a background in operations or industrial engineering may fit in areas like logistics technology or renewable energy.

2. Assess and Enhance Your Skills

Evaluate how your current skill set aligns with your target industry. Identify gaps and invest in upskilling or reskilling. For example:

• Take free or low-cost online courses or certifications relevant to the new industry.
• Attend industry-specific conferences or webinars to enhance your knowledge and make new contacts.

3. Rebrand Yourself

Tailor your personal brand to resonate with your target industry. This includes:

• Updating your resume and LinkedIn profile to highlight transferable skills and achievements.
• Sharing thought leadership content, such as articles or posts, that demonstrate your insights into the new industry.

Endeavor Agency helps our partner clients optimize their LinkedIn profiles as part of our career services. Our Nationally Certified Online Profile Expert (NCOPE) will review your LinkedIn profile and help you optimize it for maximum benefit in your job search.

4. Leverage Your Career Network

Reach out to your existing network to find connections in your target industries. Let them know about your career pivot to seek advice or introductions. Building relationships with industry insiders can open doors to new opportunities you may not have thought of.

More insight into how to make relevant connections on LinkedIn can be found in this article from Endeavor.

5. Start Small

Consider roles or projects that provide a bridge into the new industry. For example, consulting or advisory roles allow you to apply your expertise while gaining industry-specific experience.

6. Be Persistent and Open-Minded

A successful pivot takes time and effort. Stay adaptable, willing to learn, and don’t be discouraged by initial setbacks. Each step will bring you closer to your goal. An average executive job search usually takes six months or longer. If you decide to partner with Endeavor in your job search, career change, or industry pivot, we will be there for you from start to finish.

Industry Pivot Success Stories

To inspire your journey, here are two examples of corporate leaders who have successfully pivoted industries:

• Formerly an executive at Boeing, Alan Mulally transitioned to the automotive industry as CEO of Ford Motor Company, where he led a significant turnaround.
• Starting her career as a restaurant hostess, Emily Motayed transitioned into the interior design industry, co-founding Havenly.

Final Thoughts on Changing Industries in Your Career

An industry pivot isn’t just a career change. It’s an opportunity to redefine your professional trajectory, expand your expertise, and make a lasting impact. With the right strategy, you can thrive in a new industry and set yourself apart as a forward-thinking, adaptable leader.

Regarding adaptability, this quote comes to mind – “I think the more important lesson—a lesson that Blockbuster learned too late—is simply this: ‘If you are unwilling to disrupt yourself, there will always be someone willing to disrupt your business for you.’” This is from Marc Randolph, co-founder of Netflix, discussing when Blockbuster could have purchased Netflix for $50M in 2000. If you aren’t adaptable, you may get left behind and lose out on future career growth.

If you’re ready to explore what’s next, start today by researching industries that excite you. Then, reach out to Endeavor Agency if you’re unsure about landing a new role in a different industry. We can help you navigate your job search, career change, or industry pivot to a successful conclusion. Your next big career success could be just one 30-minute conversation away.