By Onboarding is the process of integrating new employees into an organization, and it is a crucial step in setting them up for success in their new role. While most organizations traditionally seek candidates with relevant experience in the field, there has been a growing trend of hiring individuals who are in the midst of a career change. But is it sensible to onboard people who are in between a career change?
Here are the pros of hiring individuals who are in the midst of a career transition:
- Fresh Perspective: Individuals who are in the midst of a career change bring a fresh perspective to the table. They have the potential to bring in new ideas and approaches to the organization that they may have learned from their previous career.
- Transferable Skills: Individuals in the midst of a career transition may have transferable skills that can be utilized in their new role. For example, a marketer transitioning into a sales role may have strong communication skills and an understanding of customer needs, which can be invaluable in a sales role.
- Willingness to Learn: Individuals in the midst of a career transition are often highly motivated and eager to learn. They are aware of their knowledge gaps and are willing to work hard to fill them. This level of commitment can be a significant asset to the organization.
- Loyalty: Hiring individuals who are in the midst of a career transition can also result in long-term loyalty. These individuals are often grateful for the opportunity and may stay with the organization for a longer period of time.
Cons of hiring individuals who are in the midst of a career transition:
- Lack of Experience: One of the main drawbacks of hiring individuals in the midst of a career transition is their lack of experience in the field. This can result in a steep learning curve, which can impact productivity and performance.
- Risk of Failure: There is also a risk of failure when hiring individuals in the midst of a career transition. If they are unable to adapt to the new role or fail to meet expectations, it can result in a waste of resources and time.
- Uncertainty: Individuals in the midst of a career transition may be uncertain about their long-term career goals. If they decide to switch careers again, it can result in a high turnover rate for the organization.
- Training Costs: Finally, training costs can also be a factor when onboarding individuals in the midst of a career transition. They may require additional training and support to fill their knowledge gaps, which can be time-consuming and costly.
In conclusion, there are both advantages and disadvantages to onboarding individuals in the midst of a career transition. While they may bring fresh perspective, transferable skills, and a willingness to learn, they may also lack experience, be uncertain about their long-term career goals, and require additional training and support. Ultimately, the decision to hire individuals in the midst of a career transition should be based on a careful evaluation of their skills, motivation, and potential fit within the organization. If they possess the necessary skills and demonstrate a high level of commitment and motivation, they may be a valuable asset to the organization.
