Switching Screens: Navigating A Career Shift From Insurance To Computers

Changing careers can be a daunting task, but it is possible to transition from insurance to computers with careful planning and a commitment to learning and self-growth. A background in insurance provides transferable skills and knowledge that can be leveraged when pursuing positions in similar fields or even entirely different industries.

The insurance industry offers various career opportunities, and with technology playing a crucial role in the field, there are numerous paths to explore when considering a shift into computers and information technology (IT). From data scientists to software engineers, IT jobs are prevalent across industries, including insurance.

To make the transition, it is essential to identify your desired IT role, research the required training and certifications, and network with professionals in the field. Gaining hands-on experience through volunteer work, internships, or apprenticeships can also enhance your employability.

Remember, career changes take time, patience, and practice, but with a well-thought-out plan and perseverance, transitioning from insurance to computers is achievable.

Identify the right IT role for you

Switching careers can be daunting, but having a plan makes it easier. Here are some steps to help you identify the right IT role for you:

• Determine what you want out of an IT career: Ask yourself what you are passionate about, how much money you want to earn, and what makes you happy in a professional sense. Do you enjoy helping people, solving problems, or showcasing your creative side? Knowing what you want will help you choose the right IT role.
• Pick a job role that aligns with your desires: Read IT job descriptions, watch day-in-the-life videos, and talk to IT professionals to figure out which technology job best meets your needs and desires.
• Talk to people who have the job you want: Reach out to your network and find someone who has the job you desire. Ask them about their career path and how they got to where they are now. This will help you understand the steps you need to take to secure a similar position.
• Consider getting a mentor: A mentor can guide and support you as you transition to a new career. They can help you set the right goals, network with the right people, and acquire the skills you need to succeed in your desired IT role.
• Research the training you'll need: Identify the skills and qualifications required for your desired IT role. You may be able to self-study or enrol in classes, boot camps, or online courses to build the necessary technical skills.
• Identify additional skills gaps: Assess which skills you already have and compare them to the skills listed in job postings. This will help you identify any gaps in your skill set, allowing you to focus on acquiring the missing skills through further education or training.
• Consider getting certified: Research certification options that can enhance your resume and make you a more marketable candidate, especially if you are changing careers drastically.
• Get hands-on experience: Look for volunteer positions, apprenticeships, internships, or entry-level jobs that can provide you with practical experience in your desired IT field. This will not only help you develop your skills but also demonstrate your commitment to potential employers.
• Tailor your resume to IT: Use language from job descriptions and highlight any transferable skills or experiences that are relevant to the IT roles you are applying for.
• Network with IT professionals: Attend industry events, conferences, and networking gatherings to meet potential mentors, collaborators, and hiring managers. Expand your digital network through platforms like LinkedIn, where you can connect with professionals in your desired field.

Remember, switching careers takes time, patience, and practice. Don't overwhelm yourself by trying to learn everything at once. Focus on your goals, be persistent, and you'll be well on your way to a successful career transition into the IT industry.

Research training options

Researching training options is a crucial step in your career transition from insurance to computers. Here are some options to consider:

• Online Resources: You can start by exploring online resources such as websites, video tutorials, and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). Websites like Lynda.com offer a wealth of information and tutorials on various IT skills. Additionally, tech boot camps can provide an immersive and intensive learning experience to help you develop the necessary skills.
• Books and Publications: Another option is to invest in books that teach IT skills. These can be a cost-effective way to learn at your own pace and build a strong foundation in computer-related fields.
• Certifications: Researching and obtaining relevant certifications can significantly enhance your employability. For example, CompTIA offers certification options like the CompTIA CertMaster for IT Fundamentals, which can provide you with key IT skills. These certifications demonstrate your proficiency in specific areas and make your resume more attractive to potential employers.
• University Courses: Depending on your desired career path in computers, you may need to pursue a degree or take additional courses at a university. Many reputable schools now offer online classes, providing flexibility if you're currently employed or have other commitments.
• Apprenticeships and Internships: Hands-on experience is invaluable, and you can gain this through apprenticeships, internships, volunteer positions, or part-time jobs. Reach out to companies that can provide you with on-the-job learning opportunities while allowing you to develop practical skills. Some IT jobs even offer paid training at the beginning of your employment, so be sure to explore this option as well.
• Mentorship: Consider finding a mentor in your desired career field. Joining a professional organization can help you connect with potential mentors who can guide and coach you through the transition. They can offer valuable insights, help you set the right goals, and facilitate networking with industry professionals.

Remember, changing careers is a process that takes time, patience, and practice. Don't overwhelm yourself by trying to learn everything at once. Set specific, achievable goals and gradually build your skill set over time.

Get hands-on experience

Hands-on experience is crucial when it comes to switching careers, and there are several ways to gain it. You could consider a part-time job, internship, apprenticeship, or even volunteer work to get your foot in the door and learn on the job. Reach out to companies that can provide learning opportunities while allowing you to assist them.

Although most IT jobs don't offer paid training at the beginning of your employment, some do. It is worth investigating your desired field to see if employer-sponsored training is an option. For example, if you are interested in a career as an IT Technician, look into companies that offer rotational shifts where you can gain hands-on experience in solving technical problems and providing support.

If you are interested in a more specialized field, such as insurance, you could explore roles like an insurance implementation specialist. In this role, you would manage computer software and hardware and act as a consultant to clients, helping them choose the right products and services. Such a role would provide hands-on experience in a specific area of IT.

Additionally, you can gain hands-on experience by trying out new things on your personal computer. Depending on your desired career path, you might build your own website, experiment with open-source software, or create a database. A significant portion of what you need to know for IT jobs can be learned through self-guided exploration and trial and error using the technology you already have.

Remember, changing careers takes time, patience, and practice. Don't overwhelm yourself by trying to learn everything at once. Focus on gaining hands-on experience in small doses, and be patient with your learning journey.

Network with IT professionals

Networking with IT Professionals

Networking is a powerful tool in your job search. It can lead to new job opportunities and help you move your career forward, so it's important to understand the different types of professional networks and how to make them work for you.

Operational Networks

People in your operational network may be in trade groups, professional organizations, or otherwise directly knowledgeable or connected to the kind of work you do or hope to do. These contacts may not be in your career field or industry, but they can help with longer-term career planning or discovering avenues that could lead to a big career change.

Nodal Networks

A nodal network is a subset of people who wield influence in your industry or with hiring managers and other leaders who make decisions. Take advantage of influencers in your nodal network who can speak to your talents, experience, and character.

In-Person Networking

• Attend professional association events, networking gatherings, and conferences.
• Join a local meetup group. Platforms such as Meetup and LunchMeet allow you to seek out or create local meetups based on shared interests.
• Join a professional club or association. Mingling with people outside of your immediate work environment but still within your profession can provide new perspectives and resources.

Online Networking

• LinkedIn: Make sure your profile is up to date and connect with people you meet at networking events.
• Twitter: Follow talent recruiters and hiring managers to gain insight into new job opportunities. You can also put your skills on display to attract potential employers and colleagues.
• Facebook: Search for Facebook groups dedicated to networking. You can find broad communities alongside niche groups that cater to your specific interests and needs.
• Slack: The Slack Community program lets you find events, start or join a chapter, participate in forums, and access a resource library.
• Reddit: Reddit has many boards designed for professional networking, including r/entrepreneur, r/Startup_Ideas, and r/businessnetworking.

Tips for Networking

• Focus on reaching out to and building relationships with the right professionals. Meet and connect with those in your career field or who know a lot about the career you want to pursue.
• Keep in contact with your network. Regular communication will help you maintain those relationships.
• Help out your contacts. Be available and help out those in your network when they ask for advice or assistance.
• Show gratitude. If someone in your network helps you out, be sure to thank them in a professional way that emphasizes how their efforts helped your career.

Tailor your resume to IT

When tailoring your resume for a career in IT, it's important to keep in mind the specific job you're applying for and the skills you've gained from your previous experience in insurance. Here are some tips to help you tailor your resume effectively:

Understand the IT Job You're Applying For

Begin by thoroughly reading and understanding the job description of the IT role you're interested in. Highlight the important points, such as technical qualifications, soft skills, and any other requirements or qualifications mentioned. This will help you identify the key areas to focus on when tailoring your resume.

Highlight Transferable Skills

Identify the skills you've gained from your insurance background that can be transferred to an IT role. For example, strong communication skills, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and organisational skills are valuable in both fields. Highlight these transferable skills in your resume to demonstrate your suitability for the IT position.

Use the Same Language as the Job Description

Mirror the language, keywords, and buzzwords found in the job description. This is an effective way to demonstrate that you are a strong match for the role. Use the exact words or phrases mentioned in the job listing throughout your resume, especially in the summary or objective section, and the bullet points describing your previous work experience.

Emphasise Relevant Experience

Reorder your resume to highlight the most relevant experience at the top. If you have multiple positions listed, ensure that the most relevant ones are listed first. If you are applying for your first IT job, focus on education, internships, or other related experience that showcases your suitability for the role.

Provide Compelling Evidence

Support your claims and skills with specific examples, facts, figures, and measurable accomplishments. For instance, instead of simply stating "excellent multitasking abilities," provide a bullet point that mentions the number of simultaneous projects you managed and the adjustments you made to schedules. This will make your resume more convincing and help you stand out to hiring managers.

Review and Revise

Once you've tailored your resume, review it critically. Put yourself in the hiring manager's shoes and ask yourself if your resume clearly demonstrates why you are interested in and qualified for the IT position. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure your resume effectively showcases your suitability for the role.

Remember, tailoring your resume for an IT career is about highlighting your relevant skills and experiences while using language that aligns with the job description. By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to making a successful transition from insurance to a rewarding career in IT.

Frequently asked questions