For jobseekers, it may be reassuring to hear that there is high demand for hybrid applicants with both a technical background and commercial acumen, particularly amongst SMEs in the semiconductor industry. However, making the leap from a technically focused role to one that is more commercial in nature can be intimidating from the candidate’s perspective. Here are four things to think about if you’re considering switching from a technical to a sales or business development role.

Use your strengths and transferable skills

People with a strong technical background are inherent problems solvers, a quality which will also serve you well in commercial roles. Those same problem-solving skills are needed but remember that the problems you face will be different to those encountered in a technical context.

Be prepared to let go of looking for one right answer

Whereas technical problems may have one unique or optimum solution, in the business world a variety of solutions are usually appropriate for any given problem. Waiting for the ‘right’ answer may mean that you hold off on taking action, but in most situations it would be better to make a wrong decision than to make no decision at all.

Demonstrate calculated risk taking

Your ability to manage risk gives an insight into how you would approach a business-focused role. Use any opportunities which come your way to tackle a tough challenge or problem, even if you feel outside of your comfort zone, in order to gain visibility.

Be aware of a bias for technical solutions

As someone with a technical background, it may be the case that when a problem arises, your first instinct is to look for a technical solution. This might not always be the best approach to take, however, so being aware of your bias is important.

Are you an employer looking for commercially focused team members with a technical background? Download our summary of candidate profiles here to see the candidates we have in our database who we can reach out to should an opportunity arise.

Are you a candidate looking to apply your technical knowledge within a commercial role? Upload your CV here and receive a call back from a search professional.

​Every job application can be daunting, but the process can appear especially difficult to navigate when you want to position yourself as a qualified candidate for senior management positions. However, this shouldn’t put you off making the leap to senior management. Here are three steps to follow if you’re planning on putting yourself forward for senior roles.

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1. Review your CV

The first step is to thoroughly review and update your CV, making sure that there is a focus on achievements, rather than simply roles and responsibilities. Keep in mind that senior management candidates are expected to be leaders, so you will want to showcase your leadership skills in your CV. Make sure that you give details of industry or career accomplishments and projects and activities that you managed or participated in, and don’t forget to include tangible results of your efforts.

2. Contact a specialist recruiter or executive search professional

 Not all senior management roles are advertised, so contacting a specialist recruiter or executive search firm will give you visibility of the roles that are currently available. Search professionals differ from traditional recruiters in that they work closely alongside their clients and actively search for talented candidates for executive and senior management positions or those requiring a niche technical skillset. These professionals will be able to advise you on the type of roles which would be suitable for your experience and skillset, provide you with techniques to showcase your skills, experience and qualities at interview, and discuss salary expectations for different roles in different industries.

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3. Learn how to lead other people

Although managing other people simply requires advancement to a role that involves managing others, there is a whole skillset to be acquired if you want to lead other people. Leading involves motivating others, pushing them to excel, developing their best qualities, encouraging them to work as a team to achieve common goals, and helping them discover their own leadership skills. If you see your future with the company you are currently working for, make your career goals known to HR to and your line manager, as there might be mentoring or training opportunities to help you progress.

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If you’re currently considering your career options, you can find current opportunities here, or reach out to a member of our team directly.