Leaving the forces with health & safety jobs experience
The following appeared in the Safety & Health Practitioner magazine in June 2007.
Q: I hold the NEBOSH National Certificate and I am currently undertaking the NEBOSH National Diploma which I am due to complete in January 2008. I also have over five years experience in health and safety. The problem is that it was mostly gained while serving in HM Forces and, since leaving, no employers seem interested in this experience. What types of positions/ jobs should I be applying for?
A: Steven Bryan, section manager at Hays Health & Safety, comments:
You must remember that potential employers are unlikely to know what your role involved, so it is important to clearly demonstrate the transferable skills that you can offer. The most effective way to do this is by using examples that show the way you approach health and safety. This technique can be used to demonstrate technical ability, professional development, communication and interpersonal skills, problem-solving and presentation skills. The type of role that you apply for is dependent on your background and interests.
The problem may also be that your current qualifications do not reflect your significant experience gained in the Forces. If, for example, you have a construction or engineering background then it would be worth considering taking the NEBOSH Construction Certificate alongside the diploma.
If, on the other hand, you have facilities management experience it would be advisable to continue with the diploma and focus on applying for FM and corporate roles. Targeting applications at a specific industry sector will allow you to focus your search and improve your chances of securing a suitable position.
The only other potential issue is the salary level that you are aiming for. If you are entering into your first dedicated health and safety role you must ensure that your salary expectations reflect this. A change in career focus will require an initial drop in salary as you build up specific skills and experience.
For further information or the latest health and safety jobs contact Steven Bryan on 020 7259 8724.
