How To: Career Pivot

Want to make a career pivot? There are multiple factors to consider before swapping industries or areas of expertise. 

Our consultants most commonly see agency talent moving to client-side, especially after extensive experience in the industry. Less commonly, talent will move from client-side to agency-side to gain more experience before jumping back to client-side or want to make the move more permanently. 

What to consider before a career pivot:

• What do you like/dislike about your current role?

• What other jobs, careers and industries do you find interesting?

• What transferable skills and experience do you have?

• What new job opportunities align with these skills?

• What do you hope to gain from a career pivot in 3-5 years time?

Take time to consider these questions as you move through the job hunting process.

Recruiters are often very helpful in taking you through the process, being realistic about what’s available in the job market and common ways to make a transition from agency-side to client-side and visa versa. 

Be open-minded to different avenues to transition yet at the same time have a clear vision and strategy that aligns with your career goals and values. 

It really is never too late to make a career change. If you’re concerned about ageism within the industry you’re transitioning to, there are some strategies to ensure it works to your advantage. 

Own your experience.

Changing careers later is actually a benefit to an employer who can gain valuable soft skills and knowledge. Make sure to frame your varied experience as a huge benefit.

Know Your Narrative

The hard questions of why, how and when you plan to make the career transition need to be clear. Just like an elevator pitch, have a career transition pitch ready to go.

Network.

Just like starting any new job, making connections across all areas of the business and levels of seniority can work to your advantage. LinkedIn is always a great place to start. Build on the current network you have and seek advice from people whose jobs or industries you’re interested in. 

This blog is inspired by Harvard Business Review.