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Technical Sales to Project Engineering
Hi,I am 27 years old and a Technical Sales Engineer. In previous years I was an apprentice and applications engineer, but went into my current job with bright prospects. These prospect never materialised and left a little worried I have wasted 3.5 years in a job that I now very much dislike. Sales has never been my major ability but I have become very proficient in it. I want to move back into engineering after 3.5 years but am finding it very difficult to do so. I have an HND but never had the chance to go for a degree. Everything I find now that looks of interest requires a degree, or 5 years or so in the particular job being applied for, which makes it hard to change industry and role.
I have an exceptional ability to think outside the box and think of ideas that others do not think of and inspire those around me for new products and technology. My ideal job would be project engineering with the MoD or consultants/sub contractors, but again come the dreaded degree and several years experience thing. Can anyone give me some advice on how to get around the problems I face as I am starting to lose my way I feel.John
Comments
John
No need to lose heart. You're one of many square pegs trying to jam yourself into a round hole. You say you have an exceptional ability to think 'out-of-the-box'. So start right now. If the 'conventions' require you to have a degree or 5 years experience, which you lack, then don't pursue those particular job application options. Since you're now very proficient at sales, start by selling yourself, but NOT to the HR/Personnel departments who won't even look at you. Target the heads of department of those companies advertising, or any others who take your fancy, and pitch to them directly. Be honest with them and tell them why you're not going via the job ad route; but then again stress your capabilities, drive and passion and you'll start to open doors and get meetings. That's after all, what you want; to get in front of them, anyway you know how and then pitch yourself for all you're worth. You'll win some and lose some, but you certainly won't be stagnant, stale or sitting and waiting for the phone to ring or the post to arrive. You have an unconventional work history; it requires an unconventional approach coupled with a bit chutzpah !
Charlie - May 16, 2007 1:29 PM
What Technology have you been exposed to?
Ade - May 16, 2007 9:40 PM