Intro and a Question... changing careers

[kwitt319]

Hello everyone. I am 30 year Mom of two. 3 year old girl and 4 mos girl. I was wondering if anyone has changed careers and how you have done so?

To make a long story short, I have my degree in Communication Studies. I originally got it with the hopes of being in HR, Employee Relations or marketing. I was laid off in 2012 and took a job in Accounting and feel like I have been stuck there for last 3 years. The pay is awful and I don't enjoy the work. Prior to the lay off I didn't have the greatest experience to me getting a job in HR or Marketing. I worked for a mobile phone company in sales and the pay was great. However since it was in a retail setting, a lot of employers don't really see it as relevant experience, which frankly it wasn't. 

My questions is how do I make the change to HR or marketing?  I would really prefer to be in HR over marketing. I feel like my resume will passed over for lack of experience. Any ideas?

[gamora24527]

My best advice is to try to network. Where I live, most people get hired because they know someone. I'm in a mom's group for attorneys. Maybe there is one where you live for HR professionals? I found mine through Meetup.com. Another thought is to try and volunteer with an organization in your desired field (in all your free time with small kids, right?). I would also tailor your resume to highlight the kinds of skills an HR or marketing professional should have based on your prior job experience. You worked in mobile phone sales, right? Surely you can spin some marketing experience into that. Good luck!

[RiseAndWine]

Can you get an HR certificate? I work for a university that has a great HR management certificate and its available as an inline program and pretty flexible.

[k3am]

As someone who actually GOT a degree in accounting, I fully agree that it sucks... a year post-graduation and I was ready to get out of there.

Your first step is to really decide on a career path. While it's not unheard of, multiple career changes are unusual, plus each time is usually going to involve starting down at the beginning ranks. Take some time, target what you want/don't want. Then get out there and network. If you can find some related courses or training, I think that's a great way to go, and also a good time for even more networking.

Hopefully you're able to find something that you enjoy doing with better potential. Good luck!