Ever wondered what it’s like to truly connect with history, not just read about it, but to mend its very fabric with your own hands? It’s a calling, isn’t it?
For those of us dedicated to preserving our architectural and cultural legacies, every creak of an ancient floorboard or faded brushstroke tells a story.
We’re living in a fascinating time where the ancient craft of conservation meets cutting-edge technology – think 3D scanning delicate frescoes or using advanced material science to stabilize crumbling foundations.
It’s a field brimming with passion, purpose, and a constant learning curve. I’ve personally seen how deeply satisfying it is to bring a piece of history back to life, knowing you’re contributing to something far greater than yourself.
Yet, even in such a unique and rewarding profession, life happens. Priorities shift, new opportunities emerge, or perhaps you just feel it’s time for a different chapter.
Contemplating a career move when you’re steeped in such specialized expertise can feel like navigating uncharted waters. You’ve honed unique skills, built a specific network, and devoted years to a niche.
It’s easy to focus on the big picture, but trust me, there are often subtle, yet critical, elements that get overlooked in the rush to secure that next perfect role.
Let’s delve into these often-missed details that can make or break your transition as a historic preservation professional.
Understanding Your True Value: Beyond the Bricks and Mortar
Stepping back and truly evaluating the breadth of your capabilities is often the first, and most challenging, step in any career shift. As historic preservation professionals, we tend to view our skills through a very specific lens, honed by years of working with delicate materials, intricate structural challenges, and the weight of history itself. We might think our expertise in mortar analysis, architectural detailing, or archival research is exclusively bound to the past. But I’ve personally experienced that “aha!” moment when you realize that meticulously planning a scaffolding system for a crumbling facade is essentially high-level project management, complete with budget constraints, team coordination, and risk assessment. Or that painstakingly documenting historical significance for a grant application is a masterclass in persuasive writing and data synthesis. It’s easy to get caught in the trap of underselling yourself, believing your unique talents are too niche for the broader job market. But trust me, the very qualities that make you an exceptional preservationist – an eagle eye for detail, unwavering patience, critical problem-solving under pressure, and the ability to work with diverse stakeholders – are incredibly sought after across a multitude of industries. I once thought my negotiation skills, honed from mediating disagreements between a contractor and a historical society over a specific shade of paint, were only applicable to dusty construction sites. Turns out, that experience was invaluable when I later had to navigate complex client relationships in a completely different sector. It’s about reframing your narrative, not reinventing yourself.
Deconstructing Your Preservation Skillset
We often get so wrapped up in the day-to-day tasks of preservation that we forget to abstract the underlying skills. Think about it: every condition assessment you’ve ever performed required keen observation, analytical thinking, and the ability to synthesize complex data into actionable recommendations. That’s invaluable for roles in consulting, property management, or even product development. When you’ve managed a multi-phase restoration project, you’ve mastered scheduling, resource allocation, and budget oversight – skills that any operations manager would envy. Don’t just list “Restored XYZ Historic Building” on your resume; dig deeper. What challenges did you face? How did you innovate? What was the impact? I remember struggling to articulate what I actually *did* beyond “fix old things.” It took a mentor to help me see that my ability to stabilize a centuries-old timber frame was a testament to my structural analysis, problem-solving, and practical application of engineering principles, even if I didn’t have “engineer” in my job title.
Identifying Marketable Talents for New Industries
The beauty of our field is that it demands such a diverse set of abilities. Your expertise in material science could be highly valued in manufacturing or R&D. Your skills in community engagement and fundraising for a local landmark could easily translate to non-profit management or public relations. Even your passion for storytelling, crucial for conveying the importance of a historic site, is a highly desirable asset in marketing or content creation. It’s about looking beyond the obvious parallels. I once knew a conservator who transitioned into cybersecurity, of all things! Their meticulous attention to detail, their drive to uncover hidden vulnerabilities in physical structures, and their commitment to long-term preservation found a surprising home in protecting digital assets. It really opened my eyes to how broad our impact can be if we’re willing to explore.
Networking Beyond the Niche: Expanding Your Professional Horizon
Alright, let’s talk about networking. In the historic preservation world, we all pretty much know each other, right? We bump into the same faces at conferences, share war stories about difficult projects, and have a comfortable, albeit sometimes limited, professional circle. But when you’re looking to make a pivot, staying within that familiar bubble simply isn’t going to cut it. It feels a bit like stepping out into the wilderness without a map at first. I remember the sheer awkwardness of attending a local tech meetup, feeling completely out of my element as people tossed around terms like “blockchain” and “AI” that were light-years away from my daily discussions about lintel repairs. But here’s the kicker: those seemingly unrelated fields are often hungry for fresh perspectives, for people who think differently. Your unique background in understanding complex systems, long-term planning, and managing delicate assets can be a massive advantage. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself as a “historic preservation professional looking to apply problem-solving skills in new areas.” You’d be amazed at how many people are genuinely fascinated by our work and eager to connect the dots to their own industries. It’s not about finding someone who does exactly what you do; it’s about finding people who share an appreciation for critical thinking, project management, or sustainability, regardless of their specific sector.
Leveraging Unexpected Connections
This is where the magic happens. Think about your existing network, but then think about *their* networks. Your friend who works in urban planning might know someone in real estate development. Your cousin who’s in marketing could connect you with someone in sustainable tourism. It’s about gently nudging your contacts to think beyond the obvious. I’ve found that simply stating, “I’m exploring how my project management skills from preservation might apply to sustainable infrastructure development,” often sparks a surprising conversation. You’re not asking for a job; you’re asking for insights and introductions. I once struck up a conversation with a graphic designer at a coffee shop about the intricacies of recreating historical typefaces, and that led to an introduction to a digital archiving firm looking for someone with a meticulous eye for detail. You just never know where the next valuable connection will come from.
Online Platforms: Your New Professional Playground
LinkedIn isn’t just for showcasing your current role; it’s a dynamic tool for exploring new career paths and building bridges. Optimize your profile to highlight those transferable skills we just talked about. Join groups not just in preservation, but in industries you’re interested in – sustainable development, cultural heritage tourism, even specific tech sectors if you’re looking that far afield. Engage in discussions, share relevant articles, and start making connections with people whose career trajectories intrigue you. Don’t be shy about sending a polite, personalized connection request. I’ve found success by briefly explaining why I’m interested in their work and asking for a quick virtual coffee chat to learn about their field. It’s all about planting seeds and building a presence outside your immediate professional silo.
Translating Your Legacy: Crafting a Compelling Career Story
When you’re trying to move into a new field, your resume isn’t just a list of past jobs; it’s your personal narrative, a story of impact and capability. For us preservationists, this can be a hurdle because our experience often sounds highly specialized. “Managed the meticulous restoration of a 19th-century Neo-Gothic courthouse facade” is incredibly impressive within our world, but to a hiring manager in, say, project management for a tech firm, it might just sound like… well, old buildings. The trick is to translate that specialized achievement into universal business language. Instead of just listing tasks, focus on the challenges you faced, the actions you took, and the quantifiable results you achieved. Did your work save money? Improve efficiency? Engage a community? Increase visitor numbers? Those are the metrics that resonate across industries. I remember sitting down with my own resume and feeling completely stuck, wondering how to make my experience with lead paint abatement sound relevant to a role in environmental consulting. It took a lot of brainstorming to realize I was actually leading complex, regulated projects with significant public health implications – a direct parallel. It’s about shifting from *what* you did to *how* you did it and *why it mattered*.
From Technical Jargon to Transferable Achievements
This is where you become a master storyteller. Take that courthouse restoration example. You didn’t just “restore” it. You “spearheaded a multi-million dollar civic infrastructure revitalization project, coordinating interdisciplinary teams of architects, engineers, and craftspeople, ensuring compliance with strict federal guidelines, and delivering the project on time and 10% under budget.” See the difference? Suddenly, you’re not just a preservationist; you’re a strategic leader, a financial steward, and a meticulous project manager. Every technical skill you possess, from material analysis to historic carpentry, has an underlying transferable skill. Think of “condition assessment” as “risk analysis” or “forecasting.” “Community outreach for a historic district” becomes “stakeholder engagement” or “public relations management.” The goal is to make your accomplishments immediately understandable and relevant to a broader audience, demonstrating your potential beyond the confines of your current role.
Your Portfolio: Showcasing Problem-Solving Prowess
For many of us, our “portfolio” consists of before-and-after photos of restored buildings or detailed conservation reports. While these are brilliant, for a new industry, you need to adapt. Can you create a portfolio section that highlights your problem-solving process? Perhaps a case study demonstrating how you approached a particularly tricky structural issue, outlining your methodology, the resources you leveraged, and the innovative solution you devised. If you’ve been involved in digital documentation, showcase your proficiency with 3D modeling, laser scanning, or GIS. Even if your work is largely physical, photographs of you engaging with a team, leading a site visit, or presenting to a community group can speak volumes about your leadership and communication skills. It’s about presenting your work not just as finished products, but as evidence of your strategic thinking and execution capabilities.
The Financial Foundations of Your Next Chapter
Let’s be real, changing careers isn’t just an emotional or professional leap; it’s a financial one. And sometimes, in the excitement or apprehension of seeking a new path, we overlook the crucial monetary aspects. Moving from a specialized field like historic preservation, where salaries can vary wildly, into a potentially new industry might mean a temporary dip in income, a different benefits package, or even significant costs associated with retraining or relocation. I learned this the hard way when I underestimated the living expenses in a new city while pursuing a certification that would open up different avenues for me. It wasn’t just about the tuition fees; it was about the daily coffee runs, the unexpected rent increase, and the fact that my previous side hustle wasn’t feasible anymore. You need a solid financial roadmap to navigate this transition smoothly and minimize stress. Don’t assume your new role will automatically come with the same salary or perks you’ve grown accustomed to. It’s vital to do your homework, understand industry benchmarks, and prepare a realistic budget that accounts for both anticipated and unexpected expenses during this period of change. A little foresight here can prevent a lot of headaches down the line.
Budgeting for the Transition Period
Before you even start sending out applications, sit down and create a detailed budget. This isn’t just about your monthly expenses; it’s about projecting how long you can comfortably sustain yourself if there’s a gap between jobs or if your initial salary is lower than expected. Factor in potential costs for professional development, new certifications, or even just updating your professional wardrobe. Consider building an emergency fund specifically for this transition. Think about your current discretionary spending – could you cut back on dining out or subscriptions for a few months to bolster your savings? Having a clear financial picture can significantly reduce the pressure and allow you to make more thoughtful decisions about your next career move, rather than being forced into something out of desperation. It’s about empowering yourself with financial stability.
Negotiating Compensation in a New Arena
When you do land an interview and an offer comes in, don’t shy away from negotiating. Even if you’re transitioning industries, your unique background and transferable skills bring immense value. Research salary ranges for similar roles in your target industry and location. Websites like Glassdoor or Salary.com can be incredibly useful. Frame your negotiation around the value you bring – your problem-solving abilities, your meticulous attention to detail, your project management experience – rather than just your previous salary. I once almost accepted an offer that was significantly lower than what I was truly worth, simply because I felt lucky to get a foot in the door in a new sector. But after doing some research and building my confidence, I politely presented my case, highlighting my unique contributions, and secured a much fairer compensation package. Remember, companies want talent, and if you can articulate your value, they’ll often be willing to meet you halfway.
Sharpening Your Toolkit: New Skills for New Paths
While our preservation skills are incredibly robust and transferable, sometimes a career pivot calls for a targeted upgrade to our professional toolkit. Think of it less as starting from scratch and more as adding new, powerful accessories to an already excellent foundation. For example, you might be a master of historical research, but perhaps a new role in urban planning or cultural resource management could benefit from a deeper dive into Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Or maybe your talent for managing complex conservation projects would be amplified by formal training in agile project management methodologies. It’s about identifying those key, in-demand skills that act as accelerators for your transition. I remember feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of new software and digital tools I encountered when I first started exploring roles outside traditional site management. It felt like learning a new language. But I quickly realized that many online platforms offer incredible, accessible courses that can equip you with these skills without needing to go back to university full-time. It’s about being proactive and strategic in your learning, picking up those specific proficiencies that bridge the gap between your current expertise and your desired future role. It’s not about abandoning your past, but about building on it with new capabilities.
Identifying In-Demand Complementary Skills
So, how do you figure out which new skills to acquire? Start by researching job descriptions for roles that genuinely interest you in your target industries. Look for recurring keywords related to software, methodologies, or specific technical proficiencies. Are they consistently asking for data analytics? Project management certifications like PMP or PRINCE2? Proficiency in specific design software, or even advanced Excel skills? Talk to people who work in those fields – informational interviews are goldmines for this kind of intelligence. Ask them directly: “What skills do you see as absolutely essential for someone entering this field today?” You might find that skills you already possess are highly valued, and only a few key additions could make you a much more attractive candidate. Focus on skills that offer a high return on investment for your time and effort, and that genuinely excite you to learn.
Online Learning and Certification Opportunities
The good news is that the resources for acquiring new skills are more abundant and accessible than ever before. Platforms like Coursera, edX, LinkedIn Learning, and even specialized bootcamps offer incredible flexibility. You can often learn at your own pace, fitting it around your current job. Consider micro-credentials or certifications that demonstrate specific proficiencies without requiring a full degree. For instance, a certification in project management, data visualization, or even advanced digital marketing could significantly boost your profile. I personally invested in an online course for advanced data management after realizing how crucial it was for understanding trends in urban development, and it completely transformed how I approached my research and presentation of findings. It’s an investment in yourself that signals to potential employers your adaptability and commitment to continuous growth.
Acing the Interview: Articulating Your Preservation Passion
The interview is your stage, your moment to shine and prove that your passion for history isn’t just a niche interest, but a powerful engine for success in any field. For many of us from preservation backgrounds, the challenge isn’t a lack of experience, but rather translating that experience into a language that resonates with hiring managers outside our immediate sphere. How do you convince a tech startup that your meticulous attention to detail in restoring a delicate fresco makes you an ideal candidate for quality assurance? Or explain to a real estate developer that managing community expectations during a historic rehabilitation project directly applies to their stakeholder engagement challenges? It’s all about storytelling and making those crucial connections. I remember one early interview where I kept talking about “the integrity of the historic fabric,” and I could see the interviewer’s eyes glaze over. It wasn’t until I rephrased it as “my unwavering commitment to long-term quality and structural stability, ensuring lasting value,” that I saw a flicker of understanding. You need to bridge that conceptual gap, demonstrating how your preservation mindset, rooted in patience, problem-solving, and a long-term vision, is actually a universal asset. It’s not about hiding your passion; it’s about reframing it as a profound strength.
Bridging the Gap: Connecting Old Skills to New Roles
Before every interview, meticulously analyze the job description and identify its core requirements. Then, for each requirement, think of a specific example from your preservation career that demonstrates that skill. If they’re looking for someone with strong analytical skills, talk about how you conducted an in-depth material analysis to diagnose structural issues. If they need a leader, describe how you managed a diverse team of craftspeople, volunteers, and consultants on a complex restoration project. Practice articulating these connections clearly and concisely. Don’t assume the interviewer will automatically see the link; it’s your job to draw the lines for them. I found it incredibly helpful to create a “translation cheat sheet” for myself before interviews, matching every common job skill (e.g., “project management,” “problem-solving,” “communication”) with a specific preservation anecdote. It built my confidence and ensured I always had a relevant story ready.
Behavioral Questions: Drawing on Unique Experiences
Behavioral interview questions – “Tell me about a time when you faced a challenge” or “Describe a project where you failed” – are where your unique background can truly shine. Your experiences in historic preservation are often filled with incredibly complex, unpredictable, and resource-constrained situations. Think about that crumbling wall that unexpectedly revealed a hidden void, or the tight budget that forced creative material sourcing. These aren’t just work stories; they’re powerful demonstrations of your resilience, adaptability, and innovative thinking. When answering, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response, making it clear and impactful. Don’t be afraid to lean into the unique aspects of your field; a story about saving a priceless mural from water damage is far more memorable than a generic office anecdote and effectively showcases your ability to perform under pressure and think on your feet.
Leveraging Digital Presence in a Traditional Field
You might think that a field as deeply rooted in the past as historic preservation doesn’t really need a strong digital presence, especially when you’re thinking about a career transition. After all, isn’t it all about hands-on work and on-site visits? Well, my friend, in today’s interconnected world, your digital footprint is essentially your modern-day professional calling card. It’s how recruiters find you, how potential collaborators learn about your expertise, and how you demonstrate your value beyond the confines of a traditional resume. Ignoring it is like trying to sell a beautiful antique without ever cleaning off the dust – you’re obscuring its true potential. I’ve personally seen how a well-crafted LinkedIn profile or a thoughtfully curated personal website can open doors you didn’t even know existed. It’s not about becoming a social media influencer overnight, though hey, if that happens, go for it! It’s about strategically showcasing your expertise, sharing your insights, and making yourself discoverable in a world that increasingly relies on digital searches to find talent. This isn’t just for tech gurus; it’s for everyone who wants to be taken seriously in their career journey, especially when you’re trying to pivot.
Crafting a Professional Online Identity
Your LinkedIn profile is more than just an online resume; it’s your professional brand. Make sure it’s fully optimized with a professional photo, a compelling headline that goes beyond your current job title (think about the *value* you offer), and a summary that tells your career story, highlighting those transferable skills we’ve discussed. Actively engage on the platform: comment on industry news, share articles that resonate with you, and connect with people in your target fields. Consider creating a personal website or online portfolio, even a simple one, where you can showcase your unique projects, share your insights through a blog, or feature compelling before-and-after case studies of your work. This is where you can truly differentiate yourself and demonstrate your thought leadership. I found that having a dedicated space to share my perspective on sustainable preservation practices not only helped me articulate my ideas but also attracted unexpected opportunities from organizations looking for precisely that kind of expertise.
Showcasing Your Expertise Through Content Creation
Don’t underestimate the power of sharing your knowledge. This doesn’t mean you need to write a thesis every week. Even short posts on LinkedIn, a series of quick “tips from the field” on a personal blog, or sharing insightful comments on relevant articles can establish you as a knowledgeable and thoughtful professional. For example, if you’ve developed an innovative approach to material conservation, write a brief post about it, explaining the problem and your solution in accessible terms. If you have strong opinions on the role of historic buildings in climate change mitigation, share them. This content not only positions you as an expert but also provides tangible evidence of your communication skills, critical thinking, and ability to distill complex information. It’s a fantastic way to organically attract attention from potential employers or collaborators who are seeking exactly what you have to offer.
| Traditional Preservation Skill | Transferable Skill | Relevant New Industries/Roles |
|---|---|---|
| Detailed Material Analysis & Diagnostics | Research & Analytical Thinking, Quality Control, Problem Solving | Manufacturing (R&D), Environmental Consulting, Product Development, Forensics |
| Project Management of Restoration Works | Complex Project Management, Budget Oversight, Team Coordination, Risk Management | Construction Management, Urban Planning, Event Management, Non-Profit Operations, Software Development |
| Archival Research & Documentation | Data Synthesis, Information Management, Critical Thinking, Technical Writing | Librarianship, Records Management, Business Intelligence, Journalism, Content Creation |
| Community Engagement & Stakeholder Negotiation | Public Relations, Conflict Resolution, Community Development, Public Affairs, Grant Writing | Non-Profit Management, Marketing, Government Relations, Real Estate Development |
| Historic Structure Assessment & Condition Surveys | Risk Assessment, Asset Management, Compliance & Regulation, Field Data Collection | Property Management, Insurance Adjusting, Facilities Management, Regulatory Compliance |
Wrapping Things Up
Whew! We’ve covered a lot, haven’t we? From digging deep into your invaluable preservation skillset to strategizing your digital presence, the path to a fulfilling career pivot can feel like a massive undertaking. But here’s the thing I truly want you to remember: you already have an incredible foundation. Your journey in historic preservation has equipped you with a unique blend of patience, meticulousness, strategic thinking, and a profound appreciation for long-term value. These aren’t just niche skills; they’re superpowers in disguise, eagerly sought after by industries you might not even have considered yet. Don’t let the comfort of what you know limit the vast possibilities of what you could become. I’ve personally witnessed so many talented individuals, myself included, transform their careers by simply believing in the broader application of their expertise and being brave enough to tell a new story about themselves. Your next chapter is waiting, and it’s bound to be extraordinary. Trust me, the world needs your unique perspective, whether it’s saving an ancient facade or tackling a brand-new challenge.
Handy Tips to Keep in Mind
1. Rethink Your Resume’s Language: When you’re aiming for a new industry, your traditional preservation job titles and descriptions might not immediately click with hiring managers outside our field. Instead of just listing what you did, focus on the *impact* and the *transferable skills* involved. Did you “manage a restoration project”? Translate that to “spearheaded cross-functional teams, managing budgets and timelines, and mitigating risks on complex projects.” Make it digestible and universally appealing to the roles you’re targeting.
2. Leverage Informational Interviews: Don’t just apply online. Reach out to people working in your target industries for a quick chat. Ask them about their daily responsibilities, what skills they value most, and how someone with your background might fit in. These aren’t job interviews; they’re intelligence-gathering missions that can provide invaluable insights, expand your network, and sometimes even lead to unexpected opportunities. It’s how I discovered a whole new avenue for my project management skills!
3. Build a Financial Runway: Seriously, this is crucial. Before making a big leap, ensure you have a solid financial cushion to cover at least 3-6 months of living expenses. A career transition can sometimes involve a temporary dip in income, the cost of new certifications, or even relocation. Having that buffer reduces stress immensely and allows you to make more thoughtful, less rushed decisions about your next move. Planning ahead here can save you a lot of future headaches.
4. Embrace Continuous, Targeted Learning: While your existing skills are gold, consider adding a few key, in-demand complementary skills. This doesn’t mean a full degree, but perhaps an online certification in data analytics, project management software, or even advanced digital marketing. Look at job descriptions for your desired roles and identify recurring skill requirements. These targeted upgrades can significantly bridge the gap between your current expertise and your future aspirations, showcasing your adaptability.
5. Cultivate Your Online Professional Brand: In today’s world, your digital presence is your modern business card. Optimize your LinkedIn profile to highlight transferable skills, engage with relevant industry content, and connect with professionals in your target sectors. Consider a simple personal website or blog where you can showcase your unique problem-solving approaches or share insights, proving your thought leadership. It’s about being discoverable and demonstrating your value proactively.
Key Takeaways for Your Career Pivot
Embarking on a career pivot from historic preservation isn’t about leaving your passion behind; it’s about redefining and leveraging it. Remember to deeply analyze your existing skillset, translating specialized experience into universally valued professional attributes like meticulous project management, astute risk assessment, and effective stakeholder engagement. Actively expand your professional network beyond your current industry, seeking out diverse perspectives and unexpected connections. Craft a compelling career narrative that highlights your unique achievements and their broader applicability, always focusing on quantifiable results and the impact you deliver. Financially prepare for the transition by budgeting diligently and researching salary benchmarks in your target fields to negotiate confidently. Finally, commit to continuous learning, acquiring targeted new skills that complement your strong foundation, and cultivate a robust online presence to showcase your evolving expertise. Your journey from preserving the past to shaping the future is a powerful one, full of incredible potential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 📖
Q: How do I even begin to identify and market my highly specialized historic preservation skills to a broader job market?
A: Oh, this is such a common hurdle, and believe me, I’ve been there! When you’re deep in the world of historic preservation, it’s easy to see your skills as exclusively niche.
You might think, “Who outside of our field cares if I can distinguish between various types of lime mortar or identify a specific architectural style from the 18th century?” But here’s the secret: your specialized knowledge has tons of incredibly valuable transferable skills embedded within it.
I found that the trick is to stop thinking about the specific historic object you’re working on and start thinking about the process you apply. For instance, that meticulous documentation you do for a historic structure?
That’s advanced project management, detailed reporting, and acute observational skills, all rolled into one. Your ability to assess the structural integrity of an old building?
That’s high-level problem-solving, risk assessment, and material science application. When I was exploring new avenues, I made a list of all my core tasks and then, next to each, I wrote down the underlying skill.
Instead of “conserving a fresco,” I wrote “delicate material handling, chemical analysis, long-term project planning, stakeholder communication.” Suddenly, you’re not just a preservationist; you’re a project manager, a materials specialist, a keen analyst, or a cultural heritage consultant.
Frame your resume and cover letters with this broader lens, using language that resonates with industries like urban planning, construction management, museum curation (beyond just historic houses), or even grant writing and non-profit development.
It takes a little creative reframing, but trust me, those skills are gold.
Q: I’ve built such a specific network within the preservation community. How can I expand my professional connections beyond that bubble effectively?
A: This is a fantastic question because your network is often your most powerful asset, and stepping outside your comfort zone can feel a bit daunting. We all tend to gravitate towards people who “get” what we do, but if you’re looking to pivot, you absolutely need to diversify.
What worked wonders for me was focusing on adjacent industries first. Think about who else interacts with historic properties or cultural assets, even if their role is different.
Urban planners, real estate developers specializing in adaptive reuse, architects working on restoration projects, even insurance adjusters dealing with historic buildings – these are all potential connections.
I started by attending industry events that weren’t strictly “preservation conferences.” I looked for local business association meetings, real estate seminars, or even university lectures on related topics.
When you meet people, don’t just talk about what you used to do. Instead, lead with the transferable skills we discussed earlier. “I have extensive experience in complex project oversight and managing sensitive material resources,” sounds far more broadly applicable than “I restore old houses.” Be genuinely curious about their work and look for common ground.
LinkedIn is also your best friend here. Don’t just connect; actively engage with posts from people in fields you’re interested in, and don’t be afraid to send a polite, personalized message asking for an informational interview.
Most people are flattered to share their insights, and those conversations can open doors you never even knew existed. It feels like casting a wider net, and with each new connection, your potential for new opportunities grows exponentially.
Q: Is it normal to feel a sense of guilt or loss when considering leaving a field I’m so passionate about, and how do I navigate that?
A: Absolutely, 100% yes, it is completely normal to feel that way! In fact, if you didn’t feel some pang of sadness or guilt, I’d probably be more surprised.
We preservationists pour our hearts and souls into our work. It’s not just a job; it’s a calling, a mission to safeguard our shared heritage. You’ve invested so much of yourself – your intellect, your passion, your physical effort – into something you deeply believe in.
So, contemplating a departure can feel like abandoning a part of your identity, or even worse, like you’re letting history down. I vividly remember wrestling with those feelings myself.
What helped me was reframing my perspective. Instead of viewing it as “leaving” preservation, I started to see it as “evolving” my contribution to the world.
Your skills, your unique perspective, and your deep appreciation for heritage don’t just vanish. They’re now part of who you are, and they will enrich whatever new path you choose.
You might find yourself advocating for sustainable design in a new role, or bringing a historical context to a seemingly modern problem, or even mentoring younger preservationists in your spare time.
Allow yourself to grieve that transition, acknowledge the emotional attachment, but then, empower yourself to see how your past experiences can be a powerful asset in shaping your future.
Your passion for preservation isn’t a cage; it’s a foundation that empowers you to build something new and equally meaningful, perhaps even impacting history in a different, unexpected way.
