Is it realistic to move from retail to another field in the current job market? Any advice?
Brief summary:
•Some college, no degree
•Worked non-traditional/alternative retail for 10 years (mostly mid-tier jewelry sales and nice-ish piercing shops)
•Some assistant manager experience
•Have been unemployed as of January 2026 with surprisingly no luck finding anything new despite living in a metroplex
I've never been unemployed and have luckily never struggled to find a job until now, so I'm assuming it's due to the type of places I've worked. I had it nice and was making $70k at my last job before downsizing but I'm ready to transition out of retail, despite it not feeling realistic right now.
I've been focusing on applying to call center sales/customer service and receptionist positions since I don't really have any other skills, but I haven't had any luck yet. I would ideally love to find something I can do remotely for health reasons but that definitely feels wayyyy more out of reach.
I never see anyone mention anything like piercing or other alternative jobs here but I'd love to have any input! :)