Have a Clear Strategy and Go Green with Ease

In this economy where change is constant, perhaps you have thought about switching to a field with high growth potential.
 
Many of my clients who have come out of high technology and telecommunications are seeking to transfer their skills to industries offering long-term career potential and opportunities for federal stimulus money. Two fields come to mind that meet these criteria: healthcare IT and alternative/green energy.

Many alternative energy start-ups are getting increased financing from VCs and other lenders, which translates into staff hiring and increased sales and marketing efforts. This sector is one of the brightest. VC world-clean tech investments are up 40% from 2007.

Several sub sectors are hot. Solar still represents the lion’s share of the VC investments – roughly 40%. Biofuels and transportation follow with 11% and 9.5%, respectively.
 
So how can you move into this sector? Here are some quick tips:

1. Can you leverage a functional area of expertise (marketing or finance) from a related industry and then use this expertise to switch over to alternative energy?

2. Is there an opportunity for you to take on a “green project” at work or volunteer on a task force that has to do with “sustainability”? This will provide concrete experience you can sell.

3. Does your state provide money and/or scholarships to train technology executives for the green economy?

4. Do your homework. Read the “Clean Tech Revolution” by Pernick and Wilder. Get well versed on the industry and how you can add value.

5. Attend networking events, be they professional associations, business school clubs on the green sector, or venture capital meetings. Make connections, learn the buzzwords, and rebrand yourself for this growing field.

Download the Green Career's Guide

by Randi Bussin
www.aspireforsuccess.com | 1.617.489.7738