Working on a warehouse floor can actually be a great foundation for a career. However, if you have your sights set on an office job, you may assume that heading in your preferred direction isn’t possible. Fortunately, that isn’t the case.
Many of the skills you learn while working on the warehouse floor can help you transition into an office job. If you want to move into an administrative role, here’s how to make it happen.
Volunteer for Administrative Duties
One of the simplest ways to start preparing for a transition is to volunteer for administrative duties while working in your warehouse role. That way, you can acquire transferable skills that will serve you well in an office position.
A prime example of such an opportunity is inventory. There are recordkeeping and reporting responsibilities associated with inventory taking. By handling inventory-related projects, you’re honing capabilities that could help you shift into an office role.
The same can be said for some order management roles. If you’re confirming that shipments are correct, some of that work is administrative. The same can go for certain shipment scheduling or tracking duties.
Network with Office Professionals
If you enjoy your work environment but would prefer an office role, reach out to the administrative professionals in your workplace and request informational interviews. Let them know you’re considering transitioning into an office job and would appreciate their insights. That way, you can start forging a connection.
As the relationship strengthens, you can start exploring opportunities for skill growth. For instance, you may find that one of the administrative professionals is willing to act as a mentor, which could be beneficial. They may also be able to get you involved in cross-department projects, giving you a chance to acquire new skills and increase your visibility, making the transition easier.
Discuss Your Interest with Your Manager
Another option that’s worth exploring is speaking with your manager (or an appropriate member of the management team). You can let them know you’d like to shift into an office job and ask if there are any duties, projects, or training options that could help you on that journey.
In some cases, you may discover that the company is more than happy to assist with your transition, giving you access to resources or tools that make it easier. However, if that isn’t the case, it could be a sign that you’ll need to look outward to get the experience you’ll need.
Try Temporary or Volunteer Roles
At times, you’ll need to look outside of your current employer if you’re going to make a change. If that’s the case, volunteering with a local organization could be a plausible option. With volunteer positions, they may be more flexible about skill sets. Plus, you’ll still have a chance to learn while you’re there.
Temporary jobs can be similar, too. Many companies aren’t as stringent when hiring short-term employees, particularly for entry-level roles. As a result, you may be able to acquire the office skills you need to launch a new career.
If you’re ready to explore new opportunities, the staff at GSG Talent Solutions wants to hear from you. Contact us today.