According to the World Economic Forum’s “Future of Jobs 2025” report, an average of 22% of jobs will change over the next five years. This implies that many of us will change employers at least once. Many people will also change industries. 38% of managers believe that the most significant factor in this process is not sector knowledge, but aptitude and adaptability, as indicated by a survey conducted by Wyser Executive Search.
Not too long ago, industry switching was considered a bold and risky career move. Today, in the face of dynamic economic and technological transformations, being open to such decisions is becoming the new norm. 50% of organisations anticipate that they will place current employees in new roles, and 40% are considering staff reductions when employees’ skills are no longer adequate, according to the “Future of Jobs 2025” report.
Findings from the Gi Group Holding’s “Labour Market Barometer” show that slightly over 39% of those working in Poland are considering changing sectors, similarly, 40% of managers are contemplating the same. Nearly half (49.2%) of these would not decide to do so, and 10.8% had no opinion on the matter. The proportion of those open to change is higher among people fearing job loss or planning to change it – among managers this amounts to as much as 77%.
Marcos Segador Arrebola, Managing Director of Gi Group Holding in Poland, comments, “From my own experience, I know that transferring between sectors and specialisations enriches, provides new insights, a different perspective, and allows one to test oneself in a new environment. There is another important aspect – changing business conditions mean that flexibility in approaching occupational roles will be even more critical in the future. Openness, a desire to learn and willingness to step out of one’s comfort zone will be key in the job market.”
The survey conducted by Wyser Executive Search shows that 38% of respondents indicated that adaptability and predisposition play the most crucial role when changing sectors. Nearly as important (35%) are universal managerial competencies, such as strategic thinking, team management, and negotiation skills. Professional networking and knowledge of the industry specifics turned out to be least important (14% and 13% respectively).
Piotr Ciemuchowski, Partner at Wyser Executive Search, notes, “Key in transfers between sectors are competencies such as a strategic approach, ability to manage change, and building effective teams. Looking for common denominators between industries and understanding how to transfer one’s experience to a new context allows leaders to enter new environments more smoothly.”
Switching sectors poses several challenges. Survey respondents identified the most significant challenge as gaining the trust of a new team (34%). Building authority and relationships with employees requires time, an appropriate approach, and skilful communication.
A deep understanding of the industry, indicated by 26% of respondents, underscores the need for proper preparation and education. Slightly fewer people (20%) pointed to developing a strategy and building a network of contacts, as challenging aspects of the change process.
The more complicated the product, the harder the industry change. In the modern technology industry, characterized by a high level of specialization, the knowledge of details is what determines success. In sectors such as FMCG or pharma, the key is universal managerial competencies – adds Piotr Ciemuchowski from Wyser Executive Search.
Changing industries requires substantive preparation. Equally important is the development of soft skills, which allow for relationship building, effective communication, and crisis management. Utilizing expert support enables the identification of the best career paths and minimizes the risk associated with change. Approaching it consciously increases the chances of success and allows for effective functioning in market conditions.
“Change cannot be a spontaneous process. It is crucial to develop a strategy, use professional advice, evaluate risks, and take appropriate steps” – summarises Piotr Ciemuchowski.
Source: https://managerplus.pl/zmiana-branzy-niemal-40-proc-managerow-uwaza-za-najwazniejsze-predyspozycje-i-umiejetnosci-adaptacyjne-47394
