What is a good explanation if an interviewer asked why I want to do this job which is in a totally different career from which I have been doing in the last 5 years?
I'm currently applying for jobs in automotive mechanic/technician or mechanic but my background I have done in the last 5 years is Massage Therapy. I haven't done interviews in a long time and so far I'm struggling to explain my interest and eagerness in learning a new skill and totally switching careers. Telling people I'm very interested in that field, it was always something I was interested in learning better and I love working with my hands and are interested in learning how things work has so far not been a good enough explanation for the last 2 interviews I have had. Why is it so complicated for those interviewers to understand that some people like to learn new skills or decide to suddenly go into a totally different career? I'm frustrated. #jobsearch #interview #advice #education #careerchange
How about you like a different challenge and learn new things?
Good advice given
Yes
You will succeed if that is where your true passion lies!
Lawrence your reply is perfect especially since I’ve recently made a cross country move. Great reminders with transitional skills that come into play. I’ll be reworking my own resume now.
Outstanding question @Dean Czok and thank you for generously sharing it in this community. I think what you've been sharing so far about your interest, passion and joy of working and solving problems with your hands are all solid points to raise during a career change interview.
What you may want to add to these great points are examples. Examples help hiring managers paint a mental image of how you apply your new career interest in a practical manner. Examples also h show how you are more than likely to behave and take on new challenges if offered the job opportunity.
Identifying and speaking to transitional skills is also a good strategy. Time management, customer care, patience and effective listening are some examples of skills and traits you practice as a Massage Therapist that are important and applicable to an Auto Mechanic job role.
@Heath Alva quick read article, Your Guide on Making Successful Career Changes also offers some excellent career transitioning tips and strategies you can include in your job search and interview process to make you journey more successful.
Do you have any other interviews planned within the near future? Don't get frustrated. The fact that your resume is being considered and you are receiving interview invitations is Awesome. The next step is to find the right employer and job fit which get's easier as you continue to interview. You're a lot closer to that new dream job than you think so Stay Encouraged!!