Topic 1:
Career Change: from Automotive Industry to Customer Relations Training
Question: I have a BS in Education and have spent 26 years in the auto industry managing sales associates, teaching selling systems, coaching daily activities, helping set goals and assuring customer satisfaction. I would like to make a career change and spend more time doing just corporate training in the area of customer relations. Where and how do I start my campaign to make this change over? Will my customer skills be of use in my new endeavors? Thanks for your help!
--Michael L. Dusseau, Las Vegas, NV
Answer: Your decision to make a career change focusing on customer relations is quite realistic and in keeping with your transferable skills and experience. You have an in-depth understanding of how to deal with customers and how to retain their business - important knowledge that can be incorporated into a customer relations training program. Having over 25 years experience in the auto industry will be an advantage when seeking a position. My suggestion is to look for opportunities within the auto/auto-related industry or other high-end consumer products and service organizations.
Although you have strong transferable skills, you may lack the technical knowledge/competencies of the training field. Explore your options for an MA Degree or certificate program that will provide you with training basics: adult development. facilitation, instructional design, needs assessment, work performance evaluation, etc. Also, consider your learning needs, work and personal life styles, and review both on-line and campus based options.
Your background information indicates that presently you are a sales manager. If possible, can you develop and deliver some small training activities related to customer relations - for the experience and to try-out some of your ideas? This would look good on your resume. Review customer relations training positions to be more aware of the requirements and qualifications. When you are ready to conduct a job search, have a professional career/resume consultant help you to develop a resume that highlights your professional savvy and focuses on your successes.
--AR