I love being an outside sales rep but the industry I was in is dying (auto).  I apply to jobs in outside sales but different industries reject the fact I have no experience in their industry.  How do you break into a new industry?

A question from Ann at our webinar: “Discover Your Ideal Job and How to Get It”

First off, you’ve got to keep swinging that bat.  Doors to new industries don’t open easily – I know this firsthand!  And by keeping at it you’ll find a way.  You’re in sales, so I know you’ve got the right skill set to make it happen!

Some specific advice is to look at how you’re packaging yourself.  My recommendation is to evaluate your resume and cover letter with a clear eye.  Do they focus on a seasoned sales professional?  Are you highlighting the types of customers and types of sales you make in ways that translate across industries?  If they package you as an automotive industry sales professional you’ve got some repackaging to do.   Job-Right is a great resource for developing your messages and packaging yourself solidly for the job you want.

A final idea is to identify what industry or industries you want to target (Job-Right is a very useful tool for doing this, too!) and then attend trade mixers or meetings to build some relationships in the industry you’re heading toward.

Rooting for your success!

Michelle Randall

I had a question regarding the “green jobs”… I share that passion as well but is it enough to GET a job into that sector as some specific skills (plus general ones) might be required… I can understand that  a recruiter does not want to waste his time. I will be glad to hear your opinion about it. Many thanks in advance and once again, congratulations, the job you are doing here is very helpful.

A question from Laura at our webinar: “Discover Your Ideal Job and How to Get It”

First off you’re very welcome.  It’s a pleasure and an honor to be able to support people who are willing to go about making their ideal job into their real job!

About green jobs.  No, passion alone won’t do it anymore outside of the rare exception.  The field has grown and A LOT of people are interested in finding a job that aligns with their environmental values.

I think that getting a green job is a matter of passion + relevant skills + a solid understanding of systems thinking and relevant environmental issues + opportunity

My hope is that is inspiring, rather than tiring (wow, I’m on a rhyme kick tonite.)  When you look at the equation, assess what you already have and what areas to build on.  There may be jobs that build a bridge to your dream green job by building your skills and experience.

And building a bridge requires a fair understanding of your destination.  Make the effort to narrow down what kind of green job you most desire.  And if you’re interested, Job-Right is a great tool for that.

Rooting for your success!

Michelle Randall

When following up with a job interview or contact – what is acceptable when the companys does not respond to email, voicemail etc when they left the conversation saying they would get back to you?

A question from Steve at our webinar: “Discover Your Ideal Job and How to Get It”

Steve, I’m sorry to say this, but they may not have been telling the truth.  If you’ve called and left messages for the people you interviewed with I recommmend the following:

1. Take a breather.  Have you really given them enough time to get back to you?  (Try multiplying the amount of time you think is acceptable by three before getting too antsy.)

2. Contact them once a week, not more.

3. Stay in touch – and see #2.

4. Move on at the same time.  It’s kinda like dating – be pleasantly surprised when they call, instead of waiting breathlessly by the phone.

Rooting for your success!

Michelle Randall

Job-Right.com

If I’m asked if I have other interviews, what is the best answer?

Yes you do! They may be today, tomorrow or a week from now, but unless the interviewer is smart and gets you off the market quickly you have other interviews. As my grandmother always told me, “Honey, don’t ever sell yourself short.”

Check out our interview guide – it’s just one part of Job-Right, the most comprehensive and insightful career optimization program available.

Rooting for your success!
Michelle
www.job-right.com