Returning to a target field after years away from it

In reference to my previous post about Behavioral Interviews, a question was asked about getting back into the IT field after being out of it for 7 years…This question has prompted today’s entry.

No matter the industry, getting back into a field after being out of it for several years can be tricky. Any functional shift like that is tough especially when there are many jobseekers who have relevant, recent experience in your field.

The best advice I can give is 3 fold:

1. Get your hands back into the field whether it is

• At home with software,
• Online tutorials,
• A class or two at a local community college or university,
• Completing a certification
• Reading books.

Show that you are willing to learn, are committed to ramping-up quickly, and have a strong desire to get back into the field.

2. Be prepared.

• Update your resume highlighting skills related to your desired field,
• Get written recommendations,
• Prepare for interviews, and
• Pprepare to take a bit of a step back in order to return to the field. Don’t sell yourself short, but be realistic in the current market.

3. Use your network!!

• Share your career achievements and aspirations with past colleagues, mentors, recruiters, friends, classmates who can give you a positive referral and help guide you in the right direction.

Good luck!
- Allison

http://www.iresume.net

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