How to Break into a New Career (with No Experience in the Field)

I had a reader contact me the other day (let's call him "Steve") saying he is interested in getting into the administrative field. However, he has no office experience. He is looking for advice because he's having a huge problem even getting interviews. So, here are a few ideas I've come up with to help Steve and really, these ideas can be used for anyone looking to change careers. The tips below can help you when your experience is not typical for the field that you are trying to break into.

Please contribute your own in the comments section. Let's help out Steve and other readers who are looking for a change!

1. Use non-traditional ways of finding a job

When your resume doesn't look like typical resume for the field, it will likely get pushed aside - there's no way around that. Most people who are hiring have a clear idea of the experience they are looking for. You need to use your network - your family members, friends, old teachers, etc - to help you find a position. You will have much better luck getting the interview if you have a cheerleader saying you are the perfect fit for the job. Personal recommendations go further than a resume any day. Join "Young Business Professionals" groups and get to know people in your community. Make sure you tell everyone you meet that you are looking to break into this business.

2. Frame your resume appropriately

Experience is all about how you frame it. Be sure you understand the position you are applying for and then, tailor your resume to show how your experience relates to it.

Personally, I believe ANY position can be useful experience for office administration. ANY POSITION. If you work with people on a construction site in your current job, focus on your communication skills and your ability to be a team player. If you serve tables at a busy restaurant, focus on your ability to multi-task, remain calm under pressure, and prioritize given competing demands. You have to take your experience and move beyond the everyday tasks you have performed. Focus on the skills these tasks have taught you and how they will benefit you in the new career you are seeking.

3. Stand-out (in a good way)

You already stand out because your resume doesn't look like everyone else's. Use that to your advantage. Contact the hiring company with a brief, professional and polite phone call. Explain that you are the one who has a vast amount of experience in a completely unrelated field and that's why you are so perfect for the job.
4. Spruce up your cover letter

It is ESSENTIAL that you include a very, very strong cover letter with your resume. It must detail your desire to change career and why your skills make that a logical progression in your professional growth. Be specific, energetic and very persuasive. Check out Cover Letter Magic for some assistance.

5. Consider working with a recruiter

Professional job hunters can help you get interviews that you might never be able to get on your own. Sending a resume to a job posting on Monster can sometimes feel like dropping it into a black hole. Recruiters have an "inside track" and the right person on your side can really help get you in the door. They can sell your skills and background to the hiring company. Don't expect that they'll do all the work for you, but they might help get you an interview. What you do with it is up to you!

Keep in mind that the company you will end up working for will need to be comfortable bringing on an inexperienced individual and training them. Believe it or not, that's not impossible to find. Many companies prefer people without experience because they aren't bringing a lot of baggage with them (like unwanted behaviors and techniques that were learned elsewhere). An inexperienced individual comes in with a fresh mind, eager to learn and completely willing to step up to a challenge. You need to show them that this you.

Good luck to Steve and anyone else who is looking to make a change! We're all cheering you on!!