Shifting industries or functions can be one of the most rewarding moves of your career. But it also carries risks, especially if you aren’t able to demonstrate relevance quickly.

Meera’s Story: The Struggle to Reframe Skills

Meera (name changed) had spent 12 years in sales but wanted to move into HR. She had strong people skills, but every application was rejected. Hiring managers couldn’t see how her past experience fit into the new role.

She felt “stuck between two identities”, overqualified for entry roles in HR, yet under-credentialed for mid-level ones.

Here are the hurdles she faced

1. Hiring Bias Against Non-Traditional Paths

Recruiters often prefer the “safe” candidate with direct experience.

The fix: Show proof of transferability. For example, highlight how leading sales teams built coaching and talent management skills, directly relevant to HR.

2. Difficulty in Showcasing Transferable Skills

Without clear translation, achievements remain “locked” in your old industry.

The fix: Reframe past successes in universal terms. Instead of “Achieved 20% sales growth,” try “Drove measurable results by motivating and coaching a team of 10 to ensure they achieved 20% sales growth.”

3. Lack of Industry Knowledge

Even strong skills won’t impress if you don’t understand industry context.

The fix: Commit to short learning sprints. Follow thought leaders, attend webinars, and complete certifications specific to your target field. Before you start applying take up freelance based projects in your target industry. Utilise platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer to land such assignments. Your experience then demonstrates to employers that you just don’t have  knowledge but also some hands on experience;hence a better understanding.

4. Networking Void

Your old network may not help in the new sector, and new peers may not know you.

The fix: Build credibility by contributing to communities, sharing insights, volunteering for projects, or attending industry forums. Visibility builds trust.

Conclusion

A pivot takes time and persistence. By reframing achievements, acquiring niche knowledge, and expanding networks, you build credibility step by step. Done right, a career pivot isn’t a compromise, it’s an opportunity to bring a fresh perspective into a new field.