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The first step to success in any industry is getting your foot in the door. But sometimes, that can be easier said than done. If you’re looking to make it in a tough industry, here are 17 tips to help you get started.

The 17 Tips

1. Do your research.

Before you even start applying for jobs, it’s important to do your research and learn as much as you can about the industry you’re interested in. This will help you understand the challenges you’ll be facing and give you a better chance of success.

2. Start from the bottom.

Don’t expect to start your career at the top. Most people in tough industries have had to work their way up from the bottom, and that’s okay. It’s a good way to learn about the business and build your skills.

3. Network, network, network.

It’s all about who you know in any industry, but this is especially true in tough ones. Get connected with people who are already working in the industry and try to build relationships with them. You never know when one of these connections could lead to a job opportunity.

4. Be patient.

Breaking into a tough industry can take time, so be patient and don’t give up. It might take months or even years to get your big break, but it will eventually come if you keep at it.

5. Persevere.

Even when things get tough, it’s important to persevere and stay focused on your goals. Remember why you’re trying to break into the industry in the first place and let that motivate you to keep going.

6. Be adaptable.

The landscape of any industry can change quickly, so it’s important to be adaptable and able to change with it. If you’re flexible and can go with the flow, you’ll be better positioned for success.

7. Be proactive.

Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you—be proactive and go after them. Seek out networking events, informational interviews, and anything else that can help you get your foot in the door.

8. Be prepared.

When you do finally land an interview or meeting, it’s important to be prepared. Do your research on the company beforehand and come up with some thoughtful questions to ask. This will show that you’re serious about breaking into the industry and increase your chances of impressing potential employers.

9. Be professional.

First impressions are everything, so it’s important to be professional at all times. This means dressing the part, acting confident, and knowing how to conduct yourself in a business setting.

10. Never give up.

The most important thing to remember is to never give up on your dream of breaking into a tough industry. It might take time and effort, but it will be worth it in the end. If you keep these tips in mind, you’ll eventually find success.

11. Be passionate.

When you’re passionate about something, it shows. If you’re truly passionate about breaking into a tough industry, that will come across to potential employers and give you a better chance of success.

12. Have faith in yourself.

Believe in yourself and your ability to succeed, even when others don’t. When you have faith in yourself, anything is possible. So don’t let anyone else tell you that you can’t make it in a tough industry—if you set your mind to it, you can achieve anything.

13. Get a mentor.

One of the best things you can do is find a mentor who’s already working in the industry. They can give you advice, help you network, and provide guidance along the way. If you can find a mentor, take advantage of it—it could be the key to your success.

14. Join relevant associations.

Another great way to get connected and learn more about your chosen industry is to join relevant associations. This will give you access to resources, networking opportunities, and educational events that can help you on your journey.

15. Be willing to put in the work.

Breaking into a tough industry takes hard work, dedication, and determination. If you’re not willing to put in the effort, it’s unlikely that you’ll be successful. But if you’re willing to put in the work, anything is possible.

16. Be different.

In any industry, it’s important to stand out from the crowd. But this is especially true in tough industries. If you can find a way to set yourself apart from other candidates, you’ll have a better chance of impressing potential employers and landing the job you want.

17. Have realistic expectations.

It’s important to have realistic expectations when breaking into a tough industry. Don’t expect to land your dream job right away—it might take time and patience to get there. Start by aiming for smaller goals and working your way up.

Breaking into a tough industry can be daunting, but it’s not impossible. With hard work, perseverance, and a little bit of luck, you can make it happen. Just remember to never give up on your dreams.

11 reasons why industry can be hard to crack and how to overcome them

1. The industry is controlled by a small group of people

If you want to succeed in an industry that is controlled by a small group of people, you need to be able to offer something that they cannot. This could be a new and innovative product or service, or a unique skill set they do not have. Alternatively, you could try to build relationships with the people who control the industry, so that they are more likely to give you opportunities.

2. There is a lot of competition

If there is a lot of competition in an industry, it can be difficult to stand out from the crowd. One way to do this is to offer something unique that your competitors do not have.

3. The industry is regulated

If the industry you want to enter is regulated, it is important to make sure that you are compliant with all the relevant regulations. This could involve getting a license or permit, or completing specific training. Failure to comply with regulations could result in hefty fines, or even jail time.

4. The market is saturated

If the market is already saturated with businesses offering similar products or services, it can be difficult to attract customers. One way to stand out from the crowd is to offer something unique that your competitors do not have.

5. You need experience

In many industries, experience is key to success. If you do not have any relevant experience, it can be difficult to get your foot in the door. One way to gain experience is to volunteer or intern with a company in the industry you want to enter.

6. The industry is complex

Many industries are complex, and require a deep understanding of the inner workings in order to be successful. If you do not have this knowledge, it can be difficult to get ahead. One way to gain the necessary knowledge is to attend industry events or conferences, where you can learn from experts in the field.

7. You need money

Many industries require a significant amount of start-up capital in order to be successful. If you do not have the financial resources to invest in your business, it can be difficult to get started. One way to raise capital is to pitch your business idea to potential investors.

8. You need connections

In many industries, who you know is just as important as what you know. If you do not have the right connections, it can be difficult to get ahead. One way to build connections is to network with people in the industry.

9. The industry is constantly changing

Many industries are constantly evolving, and what works today might not work tomorrow. It is important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the industry, in order to be successful. One way to do this is to read industry publications or attend trade shows.

10. The barriers to entry are high

Some industries have high barriers to entry, which can make it difficult to get started. This could be due to the need for expensive equipment or licences, or the requirement for extensive experience. If you are looking to enter an industry with high barriers to entry, it is important to do your research and make sure that you are prepared.

11. You’re not passionate about it

If you’re not passionate about the industry you want to enter, it will be difficult to succeed. It is important to choose an industry that you are genuinely interested in, so that you will be motivated to stay committed even when times are tough.

Succeeding in an industry that can be tough to crack requires careful planning and execution. By offering something unique, building relationships with key players, and complying with regulations, you can improve your chances of success. However, it is important to remember that industries can be complex, and you may need to invest a significant amount of time and money to get ahead.

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Minoas graduated with a Merit upon studying the full-time MPA Public Administration – International Development degree (MPA-ID) at the University of York. He is currently working as a freelance EU affairs consultant in Belgium.
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