What Dieter and Andrew say is the same in my experience.

I got the job I have with no Petrochem exp and no fulltime planning exp. I had, however, been ni the building trade (as PM / P-coord) for over 10 years and so was able to sell to them on the basis that I know how construction jobs are run and do know something about planning, even if only from doing it as a part of my job rather than full time.

The main selling point though was that they couldn’t get anyone with more direct exp. They had my CV for 4 moths before they called, I’m sure they were holding out to get someone who fitted the mould better, but when they couldn’t, well, they stretched the mould to fit.

I have just been appointed a "Junior planner" who had in fact applied for an E&I engineer’s position. They told him "we don’t need any E&I engineers, ever fancied being a planner?".

Work out what you can bring to the position.

- Construction experience. Building is building is building, I don’t care what anyone says.
- Software skills. Ability with Access is a good one to have for P3, and one that often impresses because so few people actually use it. Knowledge of VBA is another
- Language skills (planning is 70% communication)
- Demonstrate a track record of flexibility and ability to learn (a cheesy one but can be made to work for you, if you are honestly good)

above all be patient. Of course a company would prefer to hire someone experienced who can "hit the ground running", and they will spend time looking to fill the role that way. When they can’t find someone (and increasingly, they can’t) your phone will start to ring.

Hi Ash
Member of a recruiting company means to be at the source for good jobs. Very frankly spoken: In the current situation it is not a matter being junior, but what you sell to employers. To hire a junior is an investment: People will have to invest working time, trainings.. So your focus may be: If you invest in me you’ll get back! What is your business’ education? In Germany many companies have trainee programs for people just after their professional degree - it should be the same in UK. In the recruiting agency should be an expert to support you with your cv - especially show what you have, not what you don’t have.
Good luck
Dieter

Ash,

Oliver is right on the money, planners are in very short supply. Take a look at the Jobs Page, here on Planning Planet, be objective about your knowledge and experience, and if you find something, then go for it.

Don’t just confine yourself to Planning Planet, check your trade press for planning jobs, get your name down with the recruitment agencies. If you really want to, you can do it.

Chris Oggham