Career change from publishing (editorial) to (NHS) communication roles. Any advice?

[punkhairbrush]

Hi all, hoping for some honest advice as I’m considering a bit of a career shift.

I’ve worked in editorial publishing for around 20 years across magazines, books and digital content. My experience includes writing, editing and proofreading, as well as planning and delivering content across different formats and audiences.

Alongside that, I’ve also project managed publications, worked closely with brands and stakeholders and collaborated with marketing and sales teams to deliver content and campaigns.

I’ve seen a mid-level communications role (Band 6 level) and I’m trying to work out if I’d realistically stand a chance, or if I’d be out of my depth.

From what I can gather, the role involves things like:
– writing and editing content for internal and external audiences
– supporting communications campaigns and plans
– working with different teams and stakeholders
– managing newsletters, website or intranet content and possibly social media
– helping with events and general comms activity
– juggling multiple projects in a fast-paced environment

I haven’t directly led digital campaigns or social media channels myself, but I have supported this kind of work and worked closely with teams who do.

I don’t have direct NHS or formal comms or PR experience, but a lot of this feels quite similar to what I already do, just in a different setting.

Be honest – would someone with a strong editorial background plus project and stakeholder experience be considered for something like this, or do they usually want people with specific comms experience?

Any insight really appreciated.

I don’t see why not, if you look at the JD and person spec and can demonstrate experience in the essential criteria (not all but majority of) then they will short list you.
I always reccomend contacting the recruiting manager for informal chat regarding a role even for internal NHS candidates, but I’d especially reccomend in your position. Arrange an informal chat about the role, introduce yourself and set out your experience as they have here and ask any questions you have about suitability etc. no prep needed, you’ll find out if it’s for you, if you’d be short listed, and they have a chance to get excited about you, or you know whether to swerve it.

if you apply, make sure you write the supporting statement using the JD and person spec to demonstrate your experience. Ie: this role calls for stake holder management, in my last role I did x y z.
NHS short listers love the “STAR” method

best of luck