Cross over library sectors!!! well it is not impossible

Working in a particular library sector for long time, the common idea develops in our mind is that it is nearly impossible to work in a different library setting. However the reality is something different. This is not very easy to switch to a new library sector but not even impossible. Yes depending on the type of libraries the  job will vary, but there are some key skills you will need to work in any library and you need to learn about those skills and achieve them. Here are some tips to successfully crossover.
1. Learn about your transferable skills: No matter what kind of library set-up it is you will need some common skills to work in any of them. It is important to know about these transferable skills. Make a list of your transferable skills and know how you could use them in a different library sector.
Some common transferable skills are:

• Customer service
• Working under pressure
• Working independently
• Working in a team
• Taking initiative
• Problem solving 
• Reference interviews and readers advisory 
• Working with technology

Before you apply for a job make a list of your current skills and skills your need to acquire. Carefully identify the your transferable skills and be strategic to translate those skills across sectors.

2. Networking: Networking! Networking and Networking! It can not be emphasised more. To break into a new sector it is always advisable to know some people in that sector and learn from their experience. They are the people can give you the real picture of what it is like to work in that sector.
Go, attend the seminars it is worth to attend. You do not know but may be your future employer is sitting next to you. Get involved in professional association like SLAV, ALIA, ASLA, Public Libraries Australia, Public Libraries Victoria etc.

3. Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram are some common social media can be used to connect with the people. Especially Twitter is very popular in library worlds.Search for the HASHTAGS of the event you could not manage to attend, you will find a lot information of that event people shared. Use social media to  Project your skills and achievement. Get connected with people are important to you. Feel free to ask them questions you need to know.

5. Focus on your PD: Try not to miss any PD events even if you need to pay for it. Always remember it is always worth to attend the PD events to keep yourself updated with new skills. Read articles blog posts etc as much as you can. These resources are really helpful to broaden your professional knowledge.

6. Research the sector you are planning to switch to: Before you make any move research that sector as much as you can. know about the threats in that sector, your chances to grow further, opportunities. Most importantly list your skills to serve that sector.

7. Learn your niche: It is always advisable to focus on the particular job  rather than chasing the whole sector. Like as if you want to work in an academic library, think what specific area of an academic library you are interested in such as subject librarian, liaison librarian etc. Always consider the job that that your specific niche matches up.

8. Speak their language: Different sectors use different language. Use the language which is familiar in and used by the target sector.

9. Let your employer see or hear your name more than just once: Use your voice. If there is a contact number, call on the number and ask some relevant question.

Finally make it a project and follow the steps carefully. And always treat the job application process as a learning exercise, do not get too emotionally attached to a potential job. There  will always be another one and each attempt improve your chances.

This is a summery of the speech given by the speakers at the seminar arranged by ALIA. To find more information search for the #aliarais17 on twitter.