Have you considered a sector shift as an executive?

Transitioning sectors as an executive can be an exciting career progression. However, if you’ve worked in the same sector for most of your career, it can be daunting rebranding yourself and taking the leap. 

Pivoting sectors offers interest and variety to executives, but it can also be valuable to the hiring organisation. It’s an opportunity for someone with fresh eyes from an industry perspective to come in, and ask the questions that may not have been posed before. “It really does help unlock potential growth in new areas,” says Executive Interview Coaching founder Richard Elstone.

In this article, Richard offers tips on how to plan for and transition sectors as an executive. With the right interview coaching and support, there’s no reason why you can’t pursue an exciting new career in a different sector.

Look for the parallels

Ask yourself which sector you would ideally like to work in? Keep in mind that targeting adjacent sectors can help make the pivot easier and smoother.

“When people come to me and they want to move sectors, the first thing I do is look for the parallels with the sector they’re interested in,” says Richard. “You may have worked in the freight and shipping sector, for example, and be interested in moving into aviation, or you might have worked in banking and want to move into telecommunications and utilities, insurance or superannuation.

“Some of these sectors are quite interchangeable. The key is to find the parallels between the sectors, that way you can plan for any objections that may come up in the interview process.”

Focus on transferrable skills

Think about your strengths and previous successes. What transferrable skills can you bring to the table in the new sector? 

Examples include leadership skills, risk management, change management skills, communication skills or strategic planning. Often, these skills transcend sectors.

When planning for the interview process, focus on how you can add value in the new sector using these transferrable skills, rather than just showcasing your industry-specific knowledge and capabilities.

“What we need to do is assess and really do a deep dive into the skills you can bring to the new sector,” says Richard. “Often the challenges faced by companies are similar, even if the sector is different. At the end of the day, the hiring manager will want to know the measurable impact you made in your previous role, and how you can help solve their organisation’s challenges.”

Speak the lingo

To successfully move between sectors, you’ll need to understand and speak the language of the new industry. 

Tailor your resume, digital profiles and elevator pitch to reflect the new sector’s language, and remove any sector-specific jargon relating to your previous role.

Build your new network

If you’re considering moving into a new sector, start by actively building out your network. Use LinkedIn to connect with executive search firms, peers and board members within your target sector.

Reach out to your contacts for insights around the skills and experience needed to successfully transition. These conversations can become a valuable resource, helping you close any gaps and move confidently into the new sector.

Address the elephant in the room

If you’re concerned the hiring manager might have reservations about your lack of experience in the sector, address the elephant in the room. Richard says it’s better to be on the front foot around sector-related objections.

“Don’t wait for the question to come up, because if you do that, you’ll probably answer the question in defensive mode,” says Richard. “Instead, deal with it upfront on your own terms. 

“If you plan ahead for objections and address them strategically and logically, you can avoid being defensive.”

For more tips about how to identify and address the elephant in the room, check out our recent blog.

How Executive Interview Coaching helps executives shift sectors

Transitioning between sectors is possible, especially with the right support. That’s where Executive Interview Coaching can help.

What sets Richard apart from other coaches is that he still actively works in executive search, so he understands what hiring teams are looking for. Richard has a vast knowledge and understanding of different sectors, and can help guide you to find the parallels between your industry, and to address objections strategically.

“Coaching is incredibly important,” says Richard. “Some people can’t see the wood for the trees. They can’t see how they’re going to jump into a new sector as easily as me. I have a broad understanding of numerous sectors and I can help people understand potentially where they might be able to move.”

To find out more about executive interview coaching, get in touch today.