In a recent episode of the Teacher Career Coach Podcast, host Elizabeth Suto sits down with Brandon Roberts, a former high school business teacher who talks about transitioning from teaching to sales, specifically cybersecurity sales. Brandon’s diverse professional background includes roles as a police officer, correctional officer, retail manager, and educator. His story is a testament to the potential for teachers to pivot into new, rewarding careers outside of education.
We know how much you want to pivot out of education into a new career. In order to do that, you’ll need to prove to companies how you’re the best fit for the role, even when you don’t have formal experience! The problem is, trying to change careers on your own on top of your busy teaching schedule isn’t producing results. We believe former teachers are some of the most qualified candidates, but we understand how difficult the job search process can be with limited time, which is why we’ve built the Teacher Career Coach Course. This self-paced course filled with step-by-step support, time-saving templates, and printable guides was designed to help you transition into a new role outside of the classroom – without all the stress of doing it by yourself. Get support picking your next path, rewriting your resume, and standing out in interviews with advice directly from former teachers, hiring managers, and career experts.
Lets delve into the key themes and insights from Brandon’s journey transitioning from teaching to sales, offering actionable advice for teachers considering a similar transition out of the classroom.
Brandon’s Journey into Education
Inspiration and Early Career
Brandon’s entry into education was inspired by his father’s late career change to teaching. After spending time in retail management, he decided to pivot into teaching, driven by a desire to help develop others and foster meaningful relationships. He taught high school students in grades nine through twelve for about five and a half years, covering subjects like personal finance, accounting, marketing, and video production. His passion for teaching was particularly evident in his personal finance class, where he witnessed the positive impact of financial literacy on his students’ lives.
The Decision to Leave Teaching
Financial Considerations
Despite his love for teaching, Brandon faced financial challenges that led him to consider leaving the profession. With a growing family and a desire for greater financial stability, he realized that a teacher’s salary was not sufficient to support his family’s needs. He explored various side gigs, including starting a social media company, but found them unsustainable. Ultimately, he decided to seek opportunities outside of education that would provide better financial rewards and allow his wife to pursue her career part-time.
Emotional Challenges
Brandon acknowledges the emotional challenges of leaving teaching. He emphasizes the importance of separating emotions from decision-making when considering a career change and that teachers should focus on positioning themselves for success in their next roles, rather than being held back by emotional attachments to their current profession.
Transitioning From Teaching to Sales
Upskilling and Education
Brandon’s interest in technology grew during his teaching career, especially as he leveraged various tech tools in the classroom. He discovered a tech sales course through Aspireship, which he pursued with enthusiasm, treating it like a full-time job. This course not only equipped him with the necessary skills but also changed his perception of sales from a manipulative practice to a problem-solving endeavor focused on customer education.
Job Searching and Interview Process
While still employed as a teacher, Brandon dedicated time to upskilling and job searching. He found the process of applying for tech-related positions challenging, as his resume did not initially reflect his capabilities in that field. However, the support from Aspireship made a significant difference, connecting him with potential employers and streamlining the job search process. Brandon’s interview experience was eye-opening; he found the sales interview process to be more direct and urgent compared to the softer, more nurturing environment of teaching. He emphasized the importance of preparation, particularly for cold calling, which was a new challenge for him.
Career Advancement in Tech
Startup Environment
Transitioning from teaching to sales was not just a career change but a pivot into a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable industry. He initially worked in a startup environment, where he faced the realities of product-market fit and the challenges of a rapidly changing landscape. Despite the uncertainties, he embraced the opportunity to build and grow within the tech space. He eventually took on a regional sales lead role in cybersecurity, where he found himself wearing multiple hats, from marketing to operations, reflecting the multifaceted nature of startup life.
Work-Life Balance
Brandon contrasts his experience as a teacher with his current role in sales. He recalls how teaching often consumed his personal time, with lesson planning and classroom management issues lingering in his mind even during breaks. In contrast, his sales position offers him a flexible schedule, allowing him to prioritize family time and engage in work that excites him. He notes that he can dedicate time to his daughter in the mornings and still be responsive to customer needs without feeling overwhelmed.
Networking and Local Opportunities
Building Relationships
Brandon shared valuable insights on how to navigate the local job market. He emphasized the importance of building relationships within the community, attending local events, and leveraging platforms like LinkedIn to showcase one’s skills and knowledge. He encouraged teachers to engage with local businesses and chambers of commerce, as these connections can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Strategic Upskilling
Brandon advised against waiting until one is in a desperate situation to seek new employment. Instead, teachers should strategically upskill while maintaining their current positions. This proactive approach allows for a smoother transition and better preparation for new opportunities.
Advice for Teachers Considering a Career Change
Explore Interests and Network
Brandon strongly recommends taking the Aspireship course, which he credits for helping him break into sales without a formal business degree. He encourages teachers to explore their interests in sales, read relevant literature, and connect with sales professionals to gain insights into the field.
Content Creation and Self-Discovery
Brandon emphasizes the importance of building a network and becoming a content creator. Documenting one’s journey in sales can showcase a willingness to learn and grow, which is highly valued in the industry. He also cautions that while sales can be competitive, it is essential for individuals to assess their passion for the field before making a leap.
Final Thoughts
Brandon’s journey illustrates the potential for teachers to transition into new careers, particularly in the tech industry. While the shift may come with challenges, the rewards can be significant, both financially and professionally. He encouraged educators to remain proactive, invest in their skills, and build a network that can support their career aspirations. Ultimately, Brandon’s story serves as an inspiration for teachers contemplating a career change, highlighting the importance of preparation, adaptability, and the willingness to embrace new challenges.
