I’m feeling unfulfilled in my current career. How can I successfully pivot to a new field without starting from scratch and set myself up for success?
To successfully transition into a new career without starting over, focus on leveraging your transferable skills and building on your existing strengths. For example, if you have a background in sales and want to move into recruiting, you can apply your sales expertise in a staffing agency role where placing candidates involves meeting quotas, allowing you to pivot while still utilizing your core skills.
Beyond skills, building a strong personal brand is crucial. Identify what sets you apart from other candidates and showcase your value through your resume, online presence and professional interactions.
Finally, strategic networking is key. Engage with industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, attend conferences and seek mentorship opportunities. Gaining hands-on experience through side projects or professional certifications can also help bridge the gap between your current role and your new career path.
I have several upcoming interviews, but it’s been a while since I’ve interviewed and I’m feeling nervous. What tips do you recommend to help me prepare and feel more confident?
To ace your interview, start by researching the company and the role. Understand their mission, values and recent published news (if applicable) and ensure that your responses align your skills with their needs. It’s important to practice both behavioral and situation questions which will help you provide structured, impactful answers that demonstrate your qualifications effectively. Find someone to practice with and be open to their feedback so that you can improve your interview skills before the big day.
On the day of the interview, focus on staying present, confident and relaxed. Remember, the interview is just as much an opportunity for you to assess the company as it is for them to evaluate you. Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your interest in the role, such as inquiries about the company culture, the team’s objectives and key results (OKRs), and how your potential role aligns with broader organizational goals. These questions show you’re not only thinking about the position but also how you can contribute to the company’s long-term success.
I’ve just received a job offer, but I believe my skills and experience warrant a higher salary. How can I negotiate confidently while expressing my appreciation for the opportunity?
Never settle for less than you’re worth! If you’ve received an offer, it means the company values your talent and experience. Most employers start on the lower to mid-range of their budget, expecting some level of negotiation.
Do your research — benchmark your role against similar positions in the industry, factoring in experience, certifications and other relevant qualifications.
When negotiating, express gratitude for the opportunity while confidently stating your desired compensation. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and ask if there’s room to adjust the offer. In most cases, potential employers are willing to meet candidates closer to their expectations.
And did you know that only 57% of men and 37% of women negotiate their salary — so make sure you know your worth and advocate for yourself!
How do I make my resume stand out when there are hundreds of resumes I am going up against?
To create a standout resume, keep it clear, concise and tailored to the job you’re applying for. Focus on highlighting your most relevant skills, achievements and experience, using bullet points for easy readability. Quantify your accomplishments with quantitative metrics to show impact. Make sure your resume includes keywords from the job description to pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS). Finally, ensure your contact information is easy to find, and keep the document to one or two pages depending upon your level of experience.
Did you know that on average, recruiters spend about 6-10 seconds reviewing a resume during an initial scan? This means it’s crucial to make your resume visually appealing, concise and easy to read, with key information, like skills, achievements, and experience, easily accessible at a glance.
Dani Rosenwein is a seasoned Human Resources professional with over a decade of experience in recruiting, coaching and development, change management, and organizational design. She has worked across a diverse range of industries, including professional services, technology, and startups.
HelpBuildMyCareer specializes in resume development, LinkedIn profile optimization, and guiding professionals through complex workplace challenges. HelpBuildMyCareer also supports clients in career navigation, interview preparation, and salary negotiation, empowering clients to achieve their professional goals.
