For many, the idea of switching careers can feel like a big leap—especially when you’ve been with the same employer for years, or followed a steady path in finance, admin or customer services. Here on the island, where everyone knows someone who knows someone, making a change can feel daunting—but it’s far from impossible.
In fact, more and more islanders are taking that step—whether it's retraining, starting over in a new sector, or finally pursuing something that feels more "them."
Here’s what to keep in mind if you're thinking about changing careers in Guernsey.
1. You're Not Starting Over, You're Building on What You Already Know
Many people in Guernsey stay in the same career for 10, 15, even 20 years. But that doesn’t mean you’re locked in.
If you’ve worked in retail, you’ve built customer service and people management skills. If you’ve spent years in finance, you likely have a sharp eye for detail and regulatory awareness. Those strengths are valuable across many industries here—from HR and tech to compliance and office support.
It’s not about reinventing yourself—it’s about repositioning what you already bring to the table.
2. There’s More Variety in Guernsey’s Job Market Than You Might Think
While Guernsey is best known for its finance sector, there’s far more out there than just banks and trust companies. We’re seeing a rise in demand for:
Human Resources Management and Administration
Compliance and Risk
Reception and Secretarial
Marketing and Communications
Retail and Customer Services
Insurance, Pensions and Tax
Facilities
Family-run firms, growing fintech companies, and small local businesses are often open to people with the right attitude—even if they’re coming from a different background.
3. Local Employers Value Loyalty and Practicality
It’s true: many businesses in Guernsey prefer candidates with local ties, practical experience, and a sensible, down-to-earth approach.
If you’ve worked hard, stayed committed, and shown you’re willing to learn, that speaks volumes—even if your experience isn’t directly related to the role.
A local reference from someone you’ve worked with can carry just as much weight as a formal qualification.
4. Education and Training Are More Accessible Than Ever
You don’t need to fly off-island or take a year out to upskill. Courses are available through:
The Guernsey College of Further Education
Online platforms like Open University, FutureLearn, and BPP (used by many local employers)
Local employers, many of whom now offer on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or support for part-time study
Plenty of people in Guernsey retrain later in life. Whether it's bookkeeping, compliance, or IT support, learning something new doesn’t have to mean starting over.
5. A Friendly Chat Can Go a Long Way
In a community, connections matter. It’s worth speaking to someone who understands the Guernsey employment scene.
At AP Personnel, we’ve helped hundreds of locals make career transitions—many after years in the same job or sector. We know what employers are looking for, and more importantly, we know how to position your experience in a way that makes sense for them.
Even if you’re just testing the waters, we’re happy to have a quiet, no-pressure conversation about what might be possible.
Ready for Something New?
Changing careers in Guernsey doesn’t mean leaving everything behind. It’s about taking what you already know and applying it in a new direction—something more fulfilling, more balanced, or better suited to where you are in life now.
Whether you’re 25 or 55, there’s always room for a fresh start—especially here, where community, loyalty, and adaptability still count for something.
Thinking of making a change? Call AP Personnel for a confidential chat. We’re here to help.