Going from public to private sector?

Question

I have working at my local council as an administration officer for the last 10 years. I would now like to have a change, and do a similar job role in the private sector, because I have been told that the wages in the private sector are a lot higher than the public sector.

Do you think that would be a good idea? Is working for the private sector a lot different to working for the pubilc sector?

Answer 1

1. You will need to sell yourself well as a brand. Everyone has transferrable skills, which can be used in different working environments. This is a truth, but unfortunately it is relegated to theory, because of the reality of the labour market.

2. You will have noticed a number of responses from people who have transferred from private to public sector. This move is much more common, than that of public to private. The reason for this is that the public sector (local authorities, the NHS and central government) has been attempting to transform its culture, from bureaucracies to a more businesslike environment, for some years now. It is still behind industry and commerce in this (hence the complaints from those who have made the move into the public sector), but improvements have been made. For that reason there is a willingness on the part of public employers to select applicants from the private sector.

3. In commerce and industry, there is the 1970s view that the public sector is a slow, plodding, bureaucracy, prevented from making efficient decisions and taking effective action by masses of red tape. In consequence all public sector employees will be considered lethargic, lacklustre candidates deficient in any of the dynamism, charisma, and energy needed to succeed in the private sector. It's pigeon-holing, and whilst this view is a sweeping generalisation, and not applicable to many impressive, self-motivated individuals who are public employees, it is a generally-held belief, and an obstacle in the way of your ambition.

4. That is why you have to think of ways to sell yourself as a vibrant go-getter. You will need to show how you have been involved in change e.g. suggesting new ways of achieving results, implementing new procedures, being proactive in your work, looking outside the box etc. You should show how you have taken on responsibility, how you continually acquire new skills, and how you relish job growth. You will have to appear to be the right person, but currently in the wrong job.

5. If you do transfer, remember there will some things you may lose - the backing of a strong trade union, collective bargaining on salaries, flexible working arrangements, special leave, generous sickness absence, final salary pension scheme, continuous service etc. What you potentially stand to gain is an enhanced salary, and working in more pleasant offices. However, you will have to work hard to prove yourself, you will be in a less secure working relationship with your employer, you may not get so much leave, and you may have to negotiate your own pay rise. Think about all the pros and cons before you start looking for a different job, please.

Answer 2

I've worked in both and have found the environment very different. You might face a bit of a culture shock at first.

You will have to be more commercially-minded. Profit is the purpose of all private companies so you have to really earn your salary. I'd say you have to work harder in private companies. Also, working conditions may not be as good. Also, they are not as 'collaborative' or 'consultative' with the staff - there are more likely to say 'this is the situation, like it or lump it'. Less job security.
On the plus side, it can be a more dynamic workplace and things happen faster. If you have a good idea and your boss says 'yes' you can go ahead without it having to go through umpteem comittees etc for approval. The company can pay bonuses to employees.

Answer 3

I would love to be able to answer your question as I am studying this at college at the moment. Unfortunately I'm having a bit of trouble with it as you've got Public Limited Companies and Private Limited Companies in both the Public and Private Sector! Very confusing!

Answer 4

Depends on the company but not much different if the company is large. In a small company you can expect anything - from one happy family to a tyrranical, abusive, patriarchal mess. Be careful if its a small co. The salary thing is often a myth and you may be shocked at what some employers pay and expect. Don't expect normal rules of behaviour to apply either - employment legislation and even human rights legislation could well be ignored.

Answer 5

I think it's a brilliant idea. Well done you ! I moved from private to public and was horrified at the pace (or lack of it) of work. So be prepared to have a work ethic that reflects a business with its eye on the bottom line - as opposed to a lumbering bureaucracy with little regard for shareholders.

Answer 6

Well you will have to work harder for a start!!! but the rewards are better. Most public services need a kick up the bottom, as poor council tax bills soar year after year!!

Answer 7

I changed from Private to public and it is very different, there is a lot more hipocracy and polotics and red tape in public, private is much better, better paid etc etc go for it!!

Answer 8

You will have to forego your protected Local Govt Final Salary Pension - you can also be sacked VERY easily in private industry. Think carefully - 'grass is always greener,' etc.