Insights

Introduction

Transitioning from government, academic, nonprofit, or NGO roles into industry can be exciting, but many may find it challenging.  You may find that the skills that have served you well in your previous roles or organizations don’t seamlessly transition to the result-oriented world of the private sector. You may find yourself in an unfamiliar culture where you face new expectations and need to learn new ways of working.  There may be new job titles or more role ambiguity (project manager vs. project lead, anyone?). Understanding the challenges you might encounter may help you prepare to thrive in your new professional journey. Knowing the rules of the game and what you can expect can help you anticipate and navigate obstacles with ease.

Key Transition Hurdles and How to Prepare for Them

Below are some of the challenges professionals face when pivoting into industry.

Limited Clarity around Job Titles: Unlike traditional public health roles, industry career paths can be unclear, with varying titles and roles within and across companies. These new job titles might not be analogous to your previous organization.  This lack of clarity can make it difficult for professionals to plan their transition effectively.

Mindset Shift: Transitioning into industry positions often requires adapting to a new environment focused on collaboration and business objectives. While some organizations prioritize deep knowledge and expertise, due diligence, and consensus building, industry companies often prioritize speed and impact. 

Skill-Based Competency Gaps: Industry roles often demand specific skills such as presentation, engagement, or writing skills, which may not be fully developed in traditional public health professionals.

Networking and Building Connections: The ability to network and make connections is an important skill set for industry professionals, but establishing a professional network in a new industry can be daunting. Success in industry requires understanding industry norms and building connections with internal and external stakeholders. These connections will help you facilitate collaboration and alignment; help increase your visibility and influence within the organization, help build pathways and connections that increase your access to the resources needed to advance your cross-functional initiatives, and open the door to more opportunities for mentorship and sponsorship. Further, connections to external stakeholders expand opportunities or partnerships, help you stay informed of innovations within your industry, and help enhance you and your company’s credibility.

Increased Pressure and Demand: Industry roles may offer higher salaries but may also come with additional pressures and demands.  Industry often moves at a fast pace, with individuals facing tighter deadlines, shorter turnarounds, and regular evaluations of their performance. There may be pressure to keep up with the volume and velocity of the work. Performance is closely tied to metrics, deliverables, and outcomes, instead of time in role, which may create pressure to over-deliver to meet expectations. These roles can come with increased pressure and demands on time, potentially affecting work-life balance.

Conclusion

Though facing challenges may be uncomfortable, challenges often create valuable opportunities for professionals to navigate transitions with intention and strategic focus. The Public Health Pivot coaching program is designed to help you navigate common challenges public health professionals face when transitioning from government, academic, nonprofit, or NGO roles to the private sector. These challenges may include unclear job titles, shifting expectations, and evolving skill requirements. Through targeted guidance and mindset shifts, this program will help you gain clarity on these issues and develop practical strategies to overcome them. Whether you want to refine your resume, enhance your LinkedIn presence, or build a supportive network, Public Health Pivot provides the tools and insights you need to transition confidently and succeed.

Ready to take the next step?

You don’t have to figure it out alone.  If you’re facing uncertainty around job titles, shifting expectations, or unfamiliar workplace dynamics, Public Health Pivot was built with you in mind.  Our coaching program equips you with clarity, confidence, and concrete strategies to navigate the unique challenges of entering industry from government, academic, NGO, or nonprofit roles.

Join the interest list today to receive early access and tailored support for your next career moves before spots fill up.