Lateral entry is a concept that has become increasingly popular in the world of work. It refers to people who switch to a profession or occupational field without having gone through the traditional education or training routes. Career changers may already have work experience in their new field or bring their skills from their old profession. This unconventional approach enables people to create new opportunities for themselves outside of their learned profession that would otherwise have seemed unattainable.

The idea of lateral entry is often attractive to employers as it offers the opportunity to hire talented individuals regardless of the usual qualifications and career paths. Career changers can benefit from higher earning potential and more diverse experience, while employers can invest in rare talent that may not be available through conventional channels. Ultimately, if utilised correctly, lateral hiring could become a powerful tool for both employer brand and individual career development - and therefore a long-term success for all involved.

Reasons for a career change

One of the main reasons for a career change can be dissatisfaction with your current job. Low salaries, a lack of recognition or simply an unfavourable environment often lead to people looking for other opportunities and wanting to start a new career. A career change is worth considering if the current working conditions are no longer satisfactory and you are looking for a change. In such cases, you should take the time to analyse your current situation to find out whether your dissatisfaction is related to your current job, the company or your colleagues. In addition, every career changer must consider the new challenges he or she will face when learning a completely new profession. 

In addition, certain personal interests and values may change over time, causing people to look for new opportunities that better suit their goals and needs. For people who want to be self-determined in their career, the desire for a career change is also understandable.

Advantages for career changers

1. Diverse experience: As a career changer, you often bring fresh perspectives and professional experience from different areas. This diversity can help you bring innovative solutions and ideas to your new working environment.

2. Expansion of expertise: Moving into a new industry can expand your knowledge and skills as you are forced to familiarise yourself with new topics. 

3. Transfer of skills: Many skills and qualities that are relevant in one industry can be transferred to other industries. For example, communication skills, teamwork and problem-solving skills are in demand in many professions, regardless of the industry.

4. Competitive advantage: Your unique experiences and qualifications as a career changer can set you apart from other applicants and become a competitive advantage. Especially if you can bring a unique perspective or special skills to the industry.

5. Innovation: Lateral entrants can often offer unconventional solutions to existing problems, as they are not trapped in the traditional thought patterns of their new industry. This can lead to innovations and improvements.

6. Cross-industry networking: As a career changer, you have the opportunity to expand your professional network across different industries. This can prove valuable as it can diversify your career opportunities.

7. Personal development: Moving into a new industry can lead to personal growth as you have to face new challenges and acquire new skills. This can boost your self-confidence and self-development.

8. Improved employability: By diversifying your skills and experience, you can qualify for a wider range of job opportunities. This can improve your employability in a rapidly changing economy.

Is a career change worthwhile? 

1- Does the new job offer me something that my current job doesn't?

2- Do I have what it takes to fit into this role?

3- What adjustment period should I expect during this transition?

4- What opportunities for growth do I see after this change? 

When answering this question, it is important to weigh up the pros and cons of the respective profession. Ask yourself relevant questions such as:

If you are sure that these questions can be answered and that pursuing a new career represents an advantage over your current unsatisfactory job, a career change may be worth considering.

Which professions are suitable for career changes? 

Finding a job as a career changer can be difficult, but there are still many professions for career changers. Job seekers without formal, traditional training or specialised training, courses and certifications can still pursue a variety of careers.

For example, administrative assistant jobs are relatively easy to get as they require minimal entry requirements and experience. Those who can type quickly and have good organisational skills can also work in data entry, where no specific training is often required for entry-level positions. Non-professional creative jobs such as make-up artist or stylist offer excellent career opportunities without the need for additional skills, as these roles only require some creativity and experimentation - qualities that are more likely to be taught there than in other professions.

For those who want to reorient themselves professionally, sectors in which skilled labour is urgently needed offer good opportunities for career changers. IT experts, software engineers and software coders are among the profiles most in demand on the modern labour markets.

Application as a career changer

For a successful lateral entry, you should make sure that your application is top-notch. You likely lack certain qualifications for the position you are applying for. Therefore, take the time to emphasise practical experience, skills and knowledge as well as other qualities. Relevant previous experience should be emphasised, even if it was not gained in the same job; point out how the same skills used in those roles can be of use in the new job.

It's also worth mentioning any workshops, certifications or other training you attended during your previous job that might be applicable now - this will reflect well on your investment in professional development. In addition, it is important to submit a comprehensive CV and an interesting cover letter explaining your commitment and suitability for the desired profession. Attention to detail is key to any application, but especially for a career change where there are fewer qualifications to demonstrate your skills.

You can find an article on how to write a resume here. In another article you can find out how to avoid the most common errors in your resume.