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Do you have advice for somebody wanting to change fields where he has no applied experience?

I currently work in Telecom in the engineering/planning side and I am interested in moving to the Marketing dept of my company. Unfortunately, I have no marketing experience - only a few courses from my undergrad. I do have some strong transferable skills. I have also 'interviewed' several people who currently work in our marketing group to learn about which positions would be the best fit based on my strengths.

My reasons for wanting the switch are:
- Learn more about the business
- Get closer to business strategy and the customer
- Increase my breadth of experience

Do you have any advice on how to convey this in my resume/covering letter?

Thanks,

bflynn's picture

If you're looking for the best path, they try getting the job before you interview. Talk to a manager in marketing that is hiring. Ask about the possibility of you moving over there. You'll be able to make your case with him up front, even before another candidate enters the picture. Its possible it won't work, but at least you know. The approach is a whole different question, but shout out if you'd like suggestions on that.

Otherwise - why would you want to get in the pile with 1000 other people, most of whom will look better than you on paper. What could you possibly write that would escalate you over someone with 5 years of marketing experience? This is your question and I submit that the answer is "almost nothing."

Brian

Danimal's picture

I agree that skipping the resume step and moving straight to the interview would be ideal. I would definitely take that approach internally.

I'm also exploring an external opportunity where I'm insulated from the hiring manager.

Thanks for the reply.

kklogic's picture

D,
I have noticed that you are in Toronto. IIRC, AsteriskRNTT is also from Toronto and has a marketing background. He'd probably be a huge asset for you.

thaGUma's picture

[quote]My reasons for wanting the switch are:
- Learn more about the business
- Get closer to business strategy and the customer
- Increase my breadth of experience [/quote]

You are asking your company to take a risk and paying you at the same time. You need to consider where this will benefit the company as well as your personal development. Are you taking active steps to learn marketing skills? Are you willing to take a salary drop?

I applaud your idea as it could add significantly to your capabilities as an employee and wish you well.

Chris