What do you do if you want to transition into Business Communications from a different field?

1 Assess your current skills

Before you dive into the world of business communications, you need to evaluate your current level of proficiency and identify your strengths and weaknesses. You can use online tools, such as the Business Writing Skills Self-Assessment, to measure your writing skills and get feedback on your grammar, style, tone, and structure. You can also ask for feedback from your colleagues, managers, or mentors on your oral and written communication skills. This will help you set realistic goals and prioritize your learning needs.

2 Learn the basics

Once you have a clear idea of where you stand and where you want to go, you need to learn the basic principles and practices of business communications. You can enroll in online courses, such as Coursera's Business Writing or edX's Professional Communication Essentials, to learn the fundamentals of business writing, speaking, and listening. You can also read books, blogs, podcasts, or newsletters that cover topics such as business etiquette, persuasion, storytelling, and design. You can also follow examples of good business communications from reputable sources, such as Harvard Business Review, Forbes, or TED.

3 Practice and improve

Learning the basics is not enough. You need to practice and improve your business communication skills regularly and consistently. You can look for opportunities to apply your skills in your current job, such as volunteering for projects that require writing or presenting, or joining a cross-functional team that involves collaboration and coordination. You can also seek feedback and guidance from your peers, supervisors, or mentors on how to improve your communication skills. You can also join online communities, such as LinkedIn or Reddit, where you can share your work, ask questions, and get advice from other business communication professionals.

4 Build your portfolio

One of the best ways to showcase your business communication skills and transition into a new field is to build a portfolio of your work. A portfolio is a collection of samples that demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively in various formats, contexts, and audiences. You can include examples of your work from your current or previous jobs, such as emails, reports, proposals, presentations, or social media posts. You can also create your own projects, such as blogs, podcasts, newsletters, or websites, that reflect your interests and passions. You can use online platforms, such as WordPress, Medium, or Squarespace, to create and share your portfolio.

5 Network and connect

Another important step to transition into business communications is to network and connect with people who can help you advance your career. You can use online platforms, such as LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook, to follow and engage with influencers, experts, and organizations in the field of business communications. You can also join online groups, forums, or events, such as Meetup, Eventbrite, or Slack, where you can meet and interact with other business communication professionals and enthusiasts. You can also reach out to your existing contacts, such as friends, family, or alumni, who might have connections or opportunities in the field of business communications.

Transitioning into business communications from a different field can be challenging, but rewarding. By following these tips, you can develop and demonstrate your business communication skills and open new doors for your career.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?