Pushing experience is key for career transition

Three months ago, David Daniels' insurance company job was eliminated. Far from being directionless, Daniels, 38, of Elmont, had already been planning a career change to accounting, for which he already has a degree.

A former senior claims examiner, he's started volunteering as a tax coach with the city. He hears from contacts that, even though he's willing to start at entry level, "those jobs go to kids coming out of college."

Daniels is one of the job hunters who submitted questions to be answered in Newsday and on newsday.com through Friday. Here's what he asked:

"I have retail management and insurance claims processing experience, as well as recent degrees in accounting and business administration. Is it possible to break into the accounting field when you are fast approaching 40?"

Advice for him from Maggie Mistal, Manhattan career coach and radio show host, who made a career change from accounting:

"Based solely on a resume, most employers might opt for the recent college grad. It's whom they are used to hiring. . . . But you have two assets [new grads] don't. Experience and the fact you want to be an accountant. (Most college graduates just look for jobs.) You need to work those to your advantage. Have the confidence to know that you are a valuable contribution to any organization and you won't have any trouble having a productive conversation with the higher-ups. Few college grads are in a position to compete with that."

Advice for him from Dana Terzian, corporate recruiter with Adecco in Melville:

"A candidate should position their experience as an asset, and show their value as opposed to a recent grad. Work ethic, experience and overall knowledge of the business world should be key points of emphasis. An employer is getting much more than they pay for when they hire a career changer."

Advice for him from Susan Eckert, former career coach in Brightwaters:

"I don't know that older career transitioners are routinely overlooked. If they are willing to accept the going salary (which may be lower than what they're used to); if they pitch themselves accordingly (showing study/internships, willingness to learn and start from the bottom) then they've got a shot.