When you are considering applying to work in a role in an unfamiliar industry, it is natural to have some trepidation over whether it is the right step for you. It could be that someone has recommended that you apply for a role in the fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry, or you are simply looking to switch up your career, but if you are going to make the change, you need to understand the sector.
There are many reasons that working in FMCG can be fantastic. This is a dynamic industry with fantastic opportunities for those who have the skills and are willing to put in hard work. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons that you might fit perfectly into a career in FMCG.
1. An industry full of big name brands
Have you ever wanted to work with some of the most renowned and popular brands in the world? The FMCG sector is the place to do it. Some of the world’s most famous names reside in the industry including Coca-Cola, Heinz, Unilever, and Nestle. There is a real prestige in working for a brand that is known across the world and it can provide you with amazing job satisfaction to see your work affecting the lives of so many people.
Of course, the big names are not the only companies in the industry, so it may be that you have a specific business that you would love to work for. When you truly believe in a product because you use it every day, there is a strong incentive for you to succeed in your work.
2. A wide variety of employment prospects
If you are looking for a job in a secure sector, there aren’t many safer options than FMCG. This is an industry that will always be popular because it involves the selling of goods that people use every day.
Additionally, the FMCG industry is often associated with sales roles, so you might assume these are the only options available. It is undoubtedly the case that sales are a hugely important factor for any business operating in the sector, but it is also worth noting that there are many varied opportunities available that could suit your skillset. FMCG companies are driven by sales, but these sales cannot happen without stellar work from those in marketing, analysis and management positions.
3. Fast career progression
Due to the nature of FMCG and the fact that hard workers can have instant success, it is possible to progress your career very quickly. As the name suggests, things happen quickly in FMCG so if you have got a product that is selling well then you can have a huge success that can look fantastic on your CV.
4. A fast-paced and innovative industry
FMCG thrives on innovation, so if you would like to work in an industry where new ideas and different ways of thinking can make a huge difference, this could be perfect for you. Think about how often packaging for products changes or new advertising campaigns catches the public’s imagination.
If you are highly creative and you want to bring it into your work, there are many opportunities to do so in FMCG.
5. Succeed on your skills, not your qualifications
An aspect that can frustrate people in many industries is that they are required to have specific academic or working qualifications in order to apply for a role or progress in their career. In FMCG this isn’t a problem. This is very much a results-based industry, and if you are successful in your job then you can advance quickly.
This is perhaps the ultimate example of a job where it is far more important to prove what you can do on a practical basis than it is to have the correct qualifications. It also means that working hard can reap real rewards. The key is that you need to be able to think fast, work hard and be good at your job, and the sky is the limit for your success.
About the author: Mike James is an experienced business writer specializing in HR, tech, and cybersecurity. On the latter, he has contributed to many of the leading publications both online and in print – such as StaySafeOnline, GlobalSign, Tech London and more.
