Practical Strategies to Help Build Experience When Entering a New Field

Transitioning into a new career field often involves demonstrating experience that aligns with your goals. While this can feel challenging, there are constructive ways to develop relevant experience, expand your professional network, and prepare more confidently for opportunities in a new industry.

Identify and Leverage Transferable Skills

Begin by evaluating your current skills and how they might apply to your new field. Abilities such as communication, project coordination, critical thinking, and problem-solving often transfer across industries. Highlight these skills in your resume and professional profiles to demonstrate how your experience aligns with your target roles.

Build Knowledge Through Education and Training

Pursuing learning opportunities can strengthen your understanding of a new field and help you acquire relevant skills. Consider:

• Enrolling in online courses, workshops, or certificate programs to develop technical knowledge.
• Participating in continuing education classes or specialized programs at colleges or institutions.
• Undertaking self-directed projects or creating a portfolio that demonstrates your abilities.

These efforts not only can improve your knowledge but also provide tangible examples to showcase in applications.

Network Strategically

Networking can help you gain insight into a field and connect with professionals who can offer guidance. Strategies might include:

• Attending industry events, webinars, and professional gatherings.
• Engaging in professional platforms and online communities related to your field.
• Connecting with professionals to learn about industry trends and expectations.

Strong connections can help you understand the skills and experiences valued in your new field.

Volunteer or Contribute to Projects

Volunteering provides hands-on experience while contributing to meaningful initiatives. Roles may allow you to:

• Apply new skills in practical settings.
• Expand your professional network.
• Enhance your resume or portfolio with real-world examples.

Even short-term projects can demonstrate initiative and commitment to your new career path.

Explore Internships, Apprenticeships, or Temporary Roles

Participating in structured opportunities can help you gain practical experience. Consider:

• Internships to understand daily responsibilities in the field.
• Apprenticeships that combine hands-on work with guided learning.
• Temporary or contract positions to gain exposure and build skills.

These experiences can provide insight into workplace expectations and help bridge experience gaps.

Seek Mentoring and Shadowing Opportunities

Mentoring and shadowing allow you to observe and learn from professionals in your target field. Mentors can offer guidance on industry standards, skill development, and strategies to help navigate a career path transition.

Stay Flexible and Patient

Transitioning into a new field is a gradual process. Remaining open to different types of experiences, continuing to develop skills, and embracing learning opportunities can help you adapt to new roles. Patience and persistence are key to building a strong foundation in your new career path.

Gaining experience in a new field requires strategic effort and intentional preparation. By identifying transferable skills, expanding your knowledge, networking, volunteering, and exploring internships or temporary roles, you can work to develop a foundation to support your transition and helps you prepare for opportunities aligned with your evolving professional goals.

AIU cannot guarantee employment, salary or career advancement. REQ2192028 01/2026