Early in my career I got to the last two at interview for a role in the University sector, somewhere I really wanted to work having gained most of my experience so far in law firms and working in a large Northern city is seemed like a great sector to get into. I could see myself in this new world hanging out at the student union and reliving my student days – in a sliding doors moment I could see this other life unfold and I wanted it.
I didn’t get the job and was told – “they chose to go with someone internal who knows the sector”. Disappointing but not unreasonable.
When I have been recruiting for my own teams, there is reassurance and safety in hiring someone who already has a track record in your sector, it reassures managers and can mean they fit in more quickly. But does that mean you can never move sector? And are some sectors more aligned than others?
It’s a No and Yes from me, here are my thoughts on moving sector:
· Any sector with unions, complex pay and terms will be more conservative by nature and prefer people with this experience – think Universities, the NHS and Public Sector.
· Formal organisations with clear hierarchy have an affinity – think financial services, consultancy businesses and law firms.
· Fast based consumer facing businesses have a natural affinity – think manufacturing and retail.
· Third sector/Charities can be an interesting are as they are really varied but with common challenges around one charismatic leader, funding issues which require flexible contracts, volunteer workers and seasonal working – think children’s services, theatres and community groups.
Thinking about sectors in this clustered way can help you choose your next move with care and make sure you are working in an environment where you can really shine.
It also worth thinking about what work style you prefer – casual or smart, hi tec or DIY, who cares as long as we are doing great work? All of these ideas can help steer you in the direction of the right sector for you to shine.
Photo by Igor Sporynin on Unsplash