The reality is, every industry is evolving. Companies need fresh perspectives, up-to-date knowledge, and the ability to learn fast. Many of the most successful professionals started their careers without formal industry experience—what set them apart was their ability to showcase their value in other ways:
✅ Transferable skills – Leadership, people skills, and communication for example apply across all industries
✅ Willingness to learn – Business, technology and the marketplace are always evolving. It’s important to stay current
✅ Coachability – Successful American Presidents, CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, and small business owners know the importance of surrounding yourself with smart people who have knowledge they don’t. Are you willing to follow the guidance of others in areas unfamiliar to you?
In fact, my guest on last week’s podcast, David Luke, Franchisor Development Director at Pink Zebra Moving, shared a powerful perspective on this. He explained how industry experience isn’t a requirement for franchise success.
Instead, franchisors focus on key skills like leadership, business acumen, adaptability, and the ability to follow a proven system—qualities that can be developed in any field. His insights reinforced that franchising is an incredible opportunity for career changers and first-time business owners who are ready to learn, lead, grow, and scale.
If you’re waiting for the “perfect experience” before applying for that role (or even starting your own business), you might be holding yourself back. Show what you CAN do, and the right opportunities will follow.
As for me, I have an MBA, worked in the Fortune 500, and served in the military. When I became a franchise advisor 20 years ago, I didn’t even know there was such a thing as a franchise advisor. I say that franchising found me. What’s a skill or experience that helped you land a role outside your “expected” industry? Let’s break the myth together!
