How to secure your first green role in 10 simple steps

With society’s increased awareness of the current climate crisis, now more than ever there is a push for positive change. While a “green job” may sound daunting (and perhaps vague) to those currently working in other industries, green roles present a huge opportunity for jobseekers who are looking for greater environmental and social purpose in their work.

 

Our recent LinkedIn poll suggests many people are interested in pursuing a job that helps tackle climate change, with 81% of over 25,000 respondents expressing an interest in working in a green role. This enthusiasm for the green economy at an individual level is also reflected at a governing level, with the UK government announcing its Ten Point Plan to invest £12 billion into creating and supporting 250,000 highly-skilled green jobs by 2030. Some of the professionals required for these roles will include those currently working in engineering, construction, and property, due to the focus on large-scale projects like renewable energy generation and green retrofitting.

 

Since 80% of 2030’s workforce is already in the world of work, upskilling the current workforce with the skills needed to excel in green jobs will be necessary for the UK’s Net Zero Strategy. So how should you go about securing your first green job?

 

1. Choose the industry pathway that interests you the most

Think about the topics that interest you the most, whether they be related to environmental management, circular economy, sustainable buildings, or corporate sustainability, and chances are there’s a role focused on this area. Research current opportunities in the wider green economy that match your strengths and interests.
 

2. Expand your perception of what a green job is 

Sustainability is a lot more than simply planting trees and recycling. Organisations can enact environmental change through implementing a huge variety of strategies and policies. It’s possible to contribute to the sustainable development of a business without being an environmental expert since there’s no set career path in sustainability.
 

 

3. Research organisations that spearhead sustainable change 

In the pursuit of your first green job, it’s important to do your research into which organisations are leading the way in corporate sustainability and are proactive in tackling issues like plastic waste. Increasingly, jobseekers are interested in working for organisations that have demonstrated their credentials in sustainability and this is even more important if you are looking for a green role.
 

4. Look out for greenwashing in corporate communications 

While it’s great to see more companies making sustainability commitments in light of the climate crisis, there are also those willing to exaggerate their environmental efforts in corporate communications. The term ‘greenwashing’ refers to companies who portray themselves as being environmentally conscious, without backing up their claims.
An organisation that’s misleading the public about their commitment to sustainability isn’t likely to be the best fit for your first green job. Look out for vague language and buzzwords on company websites that aren’t backed up with examples of relevant action.
 

5. Seek opportunities to develop green skills in your current organisation 

It might be the case that you don’t need to look far for your first green job. Enquire about opportunities within your organisation to develop your green skills and get involved with sustainability initiatives. Even if your company isn’t hiring a designated green professional at the moment, by demonstrating your interest in sustainability you put yourself in the best position for when an opening becomes available.

6. Take the time to think about the skills you already have and want to develop 

Don’t let a lack of experience in the green economy stop you from applying for your first green job. Many transferable skills that you’ve developed in previous roles, such as creativity, analytical thinking, teamwork, problem-solving, risk management and communication skills, will be crucial to securing a role in the green economy and will add value to your future organisation.
 

7. Network with other like-minded individuals working in the green economy 

Never underestimate the importance of a good network when it comes to searching for your first green job. By reaching out to existing and new connections on sites like LinkedIn and by attending industry events, you’ll build a network of like-minded and forward-thinking professionals working in the green economy.
 

8. Keep an eye out for opportunities to enhance your knowledge 

Sustainability is a fast-evolving area and it’s essential to stay up to date with the latest research and climate issues if you want to impress when interviewing for your first green job. Make sure you are in-the-know by regularly reading industry blogs, as well as signing up for newsletter updates from consultancies like McKinsey.
 

9. Gain practical experience through volunteering 

If you are struggling to secure your first green role due to a lack of relevant experience, then volunteering could be a way to gain practical experience and develop your green skills.
 

10. Trust the process and be patient in your job search 

Securing your first green job will not happen overnight and it will inevitably take time to find the right opportunity to suit your skills and interests. Try not to be disheartened if you are not successful straight away. As organisations are becoming increasingly aware of the central role that sustainability will play in all industries going forwards, a wider range of green roles will be created as a result.

In September 2022, we spoke with policy makers, education experts and stakeholders at Tomorrow’s Net Zero Conference to discuss how organisations and educational institutions can work together to ensure we meet the growing demand for highly-skilled professionals in the green economy.

Do you want to be part of this exciting journey towards our country’s net zero future? There’s no better time to make the move into a green role, take a look at our ground-breaking opportunities in sustainability today.