Changing careers can be exciting—it opens new possibilities, offers opportunities to learn new skills and provides a fresh focus on the future. At the same time, it can be a little daunting, as it can often mean navigating uncertainty and overcoming nerves about jumping into an unfamiliar work environment.A recruiter can make the process easier by offering insider knowledge, career advice and access to job leads that aren’t always publicly available. But to make the most of that partnership, you’ll need to be prepared and play an active role in your new job search.Making the leap into a new field takes strategy, confidence and insight into what employers want. If you’re exploring such a shift, learning how to work with a recruiter for a career change can help you navigate that transition with more confidence. Recruiters from specialized staffing firms, such as Robert Half, can help you translate your past experience into new opportunities, spotlight your transferable skills and make your transition smoother and faster.Here are tips on how to work with a recruiter to change careers and help make your switch a success.
1. Start by asking smart, targeted questions
When selecting a recruiter, look for a staffing firm that specializes in the professional field you want to enter. Ask how they’ve helped others switch careers successfully and what challenges to expect.Here are a few questions you can ask to help assess whether a recruiter will represent you well:
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“Do you specialize in the professional field I want to move into?”
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“How often do you staff roles for candidates making a career transition?”
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“What kinds of companies hire people with my transferable skills?”
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“What roles in this industry are suited to my existing skill set?”
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“Do you proactively market your candidates? How does that process work?”
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“What steps can I take to make myself more marketable in this new field?”
Tip: Before your first meeting, list the skills from your current or past roles that could apply to your targeted professional field. Recruiters can help translate your experience into language that resonates with hiring managers.Learn more about what recruiters look for in candidates when hiring.
2. Set clear expectations for your transition
3. Take ownership of your preparation
4. Talk openly about compensation realities
