Dear Job Doctor, I’m in IT, but I’ve sadly zero experience in the banking industry. That isn’t to say I couldn’t do their work, as IT is pretty much universal, but this seems to be a significant obstacle. What do you suggest?

The issue you have highlighted is a very common one and is not isolated to IT roles. Although there are specific banking systems and processes that may require expert knowledge, there are many disciplines, such as marketing, human resources and IT, where the skills and competences required are transferable from one sector to the next.

If you are applying for a role through a recruitment firm it is likely that they have been given strict criteria guidelines and “sector experience” may be a selection or rejection criterion. Very few recruiters challenge the reasons for the criteria. It may or may not be justified, but without the habit of questioning and confirming, one will never know.

It is also possible that your application is being rejected based on other criteria and not having industry experience is an easy excuse without recrimination.

I would recommend establishing connections and building relationships directly with those responsible for the IT departments within the banking community. Ask them what specific systems or technical knowledge and understanding is required to best position yourself within the banking industry. Are there specific technical courses available to satisfy these demands?

With many positions in Luxembourg becoming obsolete due to changes in the market, near- and off-shoring and company strategy, employers must recognise that we have a social obligation to consider transferable competencies and further investment in any training that is necessary to redeploy our local workforce.

These previous posts may also be a source of guidance: on how to get your CV in front of the right person, on the specific criteria mentioned in job postings, and on submitting applications to a generic email address.

Darren Robinson is managing director of Badenoch & Clark Luxembourg, the largest staffing and recruitment firm in the Grand Duchy.

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