The question
For the past twenty years, following a career in the public sector, I have been a self-employed trainer and organizational development (OD) consultant. For a variety of reasons, I am now considering seeking an employment position within my field in the corporate world. I have been told, however, that corporations frown upon hiring individuals who have been self-employed for long periods of time because they tend to have difficulty adjusting to corporate culture, where they have less independence, must adhere to corporate policies and work in a more structured environment.
Is this, indeed, the case? And if so, what advice would you give me to overcome these concerns?
The answer
Call me an optimist, but I believe that anything is possible. However, I know that change doesn’t always come easily. You’ve run your own business for the past 20 years, so my guess is that you’re used to handling challenges. There is never a lack of uncharted territory when running your own business, so let’s look at some of the obstacles you may have to contend with in making a transition back into the work force.
The personal challenge: I’m assuming that you’ve thought this decision through for some time now. Have you honestly assessed what it will be like working full-time for an organization? Are you okay with having to report to someone and not being your own boss? Are you fully prepared to walk away from a business that you have grown and fostered for 20 years and start taking direction from others? There is a huge psychological impact to all of this. Close your eyes and visualize yourself going to work every day. See yourself in the rush-hour commute. Picture yourself at the same desk working with the same people day after day. Do you see this move as a new chapter in your life’s novel, or do you see this as a personal failure? Having a positive overall outlook is fundamental to your success in this transition. If there is any uncertainty, hesitation or sadness about this move, it will in come out in a job interview. These emotions will be limit your success.
The résumé challenge: Being a trainer and OD consultant, I’m sure you have a vast expanse of knowledge and experience. I have no doubt that all of this could serve a corporation greatly. However, when looking for a job, it will be necessary for you to refine this ocean of talents into a clear pond of skills. Do you have a clear idea of what type of job you want to get, or are you keeping your options open and trying to make yourself fit the opportunities that are out there? I believe if you develop a concise job description for what you are looking for, you will ultimately be more successful in gaining work. Without a specific focus, your résumé will be a hodge-podge of information about you. Yes, you have many skills, talents and experiences, but as a recruiter or HR specialist, they are looking to fit someone into a defined job. If you want a job as a corporate trainer, focus your résumé on your skills and talents as a trainer.
