Why reskilling and career changers are a must
Reskilling – the targeted training of employees for new tasks – is no longer just a trend, but a central component of modern HR strategies. The advantages are clear:
-
Flexibility: Lateral entrants often bring skills from other industries that promote innovative thinking and new perspectives.
-
Motivation: Many people who venture into a new profession are intrinsically motivated and willing to learn.
-
Speed: Instead of spending months searching for applicants, companies can use reskilling to quickly prepare existing or new employees for specific tasks.
-
Cost savings: Reskilling is often cheaper than lengthy recruitment processes and can be supported by funding programs.
However, the key question is in which areas career changers can really add value and how companies can make the most of this potential.
Lateral entry into the real estate industry
The real estate industry faces several challenges: an increasing demand for real estate services, complex regulatory requirements and a digital transformation that is turning traditional ways of working upside down. This is where career changers are particularly valuable, as the industry offers a wide range of roles – from sales and project development to facility management.
Why career changers are ideal:
- Diverse skills: Professions such as retail, hospitality or customer service provide soft skills such as negotiation skills, empathy and problem-solving skills that can be perfectly transferred to the real estate sector.
- Flexible mindset: Career changers from other industries often have no fixed working patterns and can adapt more easily to the dynamic demands of the real estate world.
- Technological openness: In the real estate industry, digital tools such as CRM systems or PropTech solutions are on the rise. Those coming from the IT or tech industry often already have experience in using such technologies.
Where can career changers be placed?
- Real estate brokerage: Especially in sales, communication skills and a customer-oriented attitude are more important than an industry-specific background. Here, an intensive training program can prepare you for the job.
- Project management: Organizational people from other industries, such as event planning or construction, can seamlessly transfer their skills to real estate development.
- Facility management: A basic understanding of technology, coupled with a pragmatic approach, makes career changers valuable in this role.
Practical tip:
Companies should rely on structured onboarding programs that impart technical know-how and industry knowledge.
Career change in accounting
Accounting is another area in which companies can benefit from reskilling. Although this sector is traditionally perceived as highly regulated and specific, there are numerous opportunities for career changers, especially in view of the shortage of skilled workers and the advance of digitalization.
Why career changers are ideal:
- Analytical skills: Many professions, such as controlling, accounting or finance, require analytical thinking. This skill can be found in a range of industries, such as engineering or project management.
- Affinity for numbers: Employees from areas such as trade or logistics often already work with key figures and KPIs, which makes the transition to accounting easier.
- Digital know-how: Modern accounting requires the use of software solutions such as SAP or DATEV. Career changers with IT knowledge can be a valuable asset here.
Where can career changers be employed?
- Accounting: Those with a high affinity for numbers and an eye for detail can quickly gain a foothold in this field with targeted further training – e.g. an accounting course.
- Controlling: Project managers or analysts from other industries can apply their skills directly to controlling tasks.
- Tax consulting: Lateral entrants who can take on specific tasks after further training are particularly in demand in smaller tax consulting firms.
Practical tip:
A mix of practice and theory is key. Companies should enable career changers to take part in specialist courses or certifications alongside their practical training. Funding programs such as those offered by the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber can support these measures.
How to ensure successful integration
The integration of career changers is not a sure-fire success – it requires planning, resources and a targeted strategy. Here are some proven approaches:
1. Targeted recruiting: Job ads should clearly communicate that career changers are welcome. A focus on transferable skills rather than specific work experience is crucial here.
2. Customized training programs: Companies should offer tailored training that is aligned with the needs of career changers and the requirements of the industry.
3. Mentoring: Support from experienced colleagues makes it easier to get started and ensures faster integration.
4. Cultural openness: A corporate culture that embraces diversity and new perspectives is key to retaining career changers in the long term.
Our conclusion: Reskilling as a competitive advantage
Companies that are open to career changers and invest in reskilling not only gain access to a broader talent pool, but also to innovative strength. Especially in dynamic industries such as real estate or accounting, career changers are often the key not only to combating the shortage of skilled workers, but also to remaining competitive in the long term.
The search for suitable career changers and the design of reskilling strategies are challenges that require specific know-how and a good sense for talent. We are happy to support you in your search for the right career changers – contact us today!
