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How to write an impactful cover letter for a career change

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How to write a cover letter for a career change

Career change cover letter examples.

8 tips to write a successful career change cover letter

Learning to navigate career changes

As a job seeker, your primary objective is to stand out from every other candidate — and writing a strong cover letter is a great way to do this.

But if you’re trying to change careers, it might seem more complicated. Crafting a compelling letter for a career change needs to put your best foot forward while explaining how your experience and transferable skills make you the best fit. 

Luckily, like any application, cover letters give you a unique opportunity to make a strong first impression on a prospective employer. They’re your opportunity to spin a perceived drawback into a valuable asset, showing hiring managers your unique perspective and ability to make a change.

Let’s start with the basics. Like any other professional communication, every word of your career change cover letter counts. Your relevant skill set, work experience, and communication style let a recruiter, hiring manager, or potential supervisor know what it’ll be like to work with you. 

Here’s how to use your cover letter to make an impact: 

1. Start with a powerful introduction

The first few lines of your cover letter set the tone and pique your reader's interest (or spur disinterest). Skip generic introductions and aim for an opening line that quickly encapsulates the value you can bring to the new job. It can also reflect your unique personality, within reason.

Don’t be shy about identifying yourself as a career changer. It’s an opportunity to showcase important soft skills — such as courage, intellectual curiosity , and a resilient mindset — and connect relevant experiences with valuable transferable skills . With the right framing, it may be the key to standing out as an interesting candidate.

Here’s an example: “As a seasoned journalist, I’m eager to transition into public relations. I've spent the last 20 years sharpening my critical-thinking, research, and copywriting skills, which will serve me well in this new role.”

2. Develop your full character

Your opening paragraph should include your previous role and new career ambition. Next, it’s time to offer a glimpse of your professional drive and explain in more detail what you bring to a career switch, especially if you’ve been upskilling, taking classes, or attending trainings. This is an opportunity to blend your established reputation with your new career goals. If you’re making the change to pursue your passion or do more meaningful work, putting that fact on diisplay creates a fuller image of your personal values , mission, and vision for the future. 

For example: “I currently manage a team of 50 sales representatives in the constantly evolving healthcare sector. The most fascinating and fulfilling part of my job has always been developing a deep understanding of my client’s needs. Acting as a bridge to better service, consulting with them about updating their tools and training to focus on providing excellent treatment to their patients is so rewarding. I’m excited by the prospect of leveraging my social skills and years of experience working directly with healthcare providers to move into software development for the healthcare sector.” 

3. Show some emotion

Carefully placed action verbs and feelings help make your experience jump off the page. Potential employers aren’t just looking for a list of key skills — they want to imagine the person behind them. Choose language that conveys enthusiasm, drive, and work motivation , like “I’ve always been passionate about problem-solving and teamwork” or “I immediately connected with your company’s vision and commitment to sustainability.” 

4. Describe your past performance

Your successes in previous roles are the best predictor of the meaningful work you’ll accomplish in the next one — even if you’re moving to a new industry. Focus on accomplishments that demonstrate flexibility and a learning mindset to help the hiring manager envision a successful transition. You need to make the most out of your letter of interest , portfolio , and resume, so put the highlights on your resume and tell the story in your cover letter. 

For instance: “I oversaw a project to automate sales tracking systems, working with our tech team to evaluate the best strategies for the sales department. The project improved efficiency by 25% and decreased overhead costs by 15%.” 

Metrics quantify the value of your growth mindset and show off important skills like team collaboration , project management , and adaptability. 

5. Align your skills with the job description

Even if you’re at the height of your career, a hiring manager needs to know you can bridge the gap between your current role and the new position. Pay careful attention to the soft and hard skills they mention in the job posting and work them into your career transition cover letter. Don’t embellish for the sake of standing out, but do highlight the skills you can back up with valuable, direct experience. 

6. Write a memorable closing

Your closing is your opportunity to reiterate your excitement about the job opening. Adjectives like “eager,” “excited,” and “thrilled” demonstrate you’re ready to hit the ground running. 

Additionally, your cover letter for switching careers should invite further dialogue with a call to action. For example: “I’m eager to learn more about the role and look forward to sharing how I can bring my unique perspective and years of experience in [industry] to your organization.” 

Before digging into your resume or cover letter, a potential employer may peruse your job application or LinkedIn profile to understand your value as a candidate. Your cover letter is your first opportunity to turn a list of skills and experiences into a well-rounded picture of your character. 

The best cover letters balance highlighting your unique personality and perspective with proving you have what it takes to fill the job description. While your letter should represent you, you don’t have to start from scratch. Instead, build your own using a basic structure and templates for inspiration. You can also ask ChatGPT to generate a first draft for you with strategic prompts .

Here’s a general career change cover letter sample to consider:

Dear [hiring manager’s name], 

Thank you for considering my application for [ prospective job title] at [company name]. 

I’ve spent the last [years of experience] learning the ins and outs of [current industry], where I currently work as a [most recent job title]. I gravitated toward [industry] because of my passion for [the factors that pushed you to your current career]. The most fulfilling part of my career has been [transferable skills relevant to the new job posting]. I’ve built my expertise around [relevant skills], which were instrumental in accomplishing [a notable achievement or project]. 

I’m excited to transition into a new career chapter and follow my calling in [new field]. Reading about your company, I immediately connected with [core value]. I’m thrilled by the prospect of contributing [your vision or skills] and am eager to apply my unique perspective as a [current job title] in a new context. 

Attached is my resume. I’m eager to learn more about the company and how my background aligns with your needs.

I look forward to the opportunity to continue the conversation. 

Sincerely, 

[Your name]

When changing careers, you may feel worried about potential red flags in your resume, like career gaps or lack of direct experience . While your technical abilities are important, many recruiters and hiring managers prioritize soft skills , like leadership, critical thinking, and communication. Here’s a cover letter that balances proven soft skills and highlights your excitement to fill the gaps: 

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for [prospective job title] at [company name]. While I’ve developed my career in [industry], my enthusiasm for [relevant interest] combined with my proven [relevant transferable skills] has prepared me for this career path. 

Over the last [years of experience], I’ve cultivated a solid foundation in [relevant skills], which mirror the dynamic demands of [new industry]. 

I’m attracted to [new industry] because of [your interest or inspiration to switch to a new field]. The [specific aspect of your new field] that [company name] embodies deeply resonates with my personal values and professional aspirations. I’ve spent the last [months or years] learning [valuable technical skills or industry knowledge] through [examples of learning experiences, such as a class, seminar, or networking opportunity]. 

Attached is my resume, which underscores my transferable skills and [relevant coursework or certifications]. 

I’m confident that my adaptability, dedication to quality work, and passion for learning position me to hit the ground running and become a strong asset to your team. I look forward to discussing how my excitement and skill set align with your objectives. 

8 tips to write a successful career change cover letter 

Now that you have some cover letter examples for changing careers, let’s get into the fine print. Here are eight tips to help your career change cover letter lead to an interview: 

• Address the letter to the right person: General salutations — like “Dear hiring manager” — may give the impression you’re copying and pasting the same cover letter across several job postings. Likewise, it signals to the reader that you lacked the initiative and dedication to find out more about the role and the hiring team beyond what’s in a brief job posting. Take the time to learn the hiring manager's name and use it to kick off communications. 
• Keep things short: The objective of your cover letter is to spark a hiring manager’s interest and encourage them to read your resume . Keep your cover letter to a few well-curated paragraphs that balance your unique value with the requisites for the job role. 
• Research, research, research: The company’s website, social media, and other branded materials can provide insight into the organization’s mission and core values. Aligning your vision with the company’s is a great way to capture a hiring manager’s attention and let them know you fit the company culture .
• Explain your reasons for changing careers: The courage to take a chance on yourself and switch careers speaks volumes about your character. It’s nothing to shy away from. Highlight the reasons you decided to make the difficult career decision —  your resilience, fortitude, and decisiveness can provide a competitive advantage over more traditional candidates. 
• Mention new skills: Highlight how you’ve learned about your new industry, acquired technical skills, and prepared for the career switch. Whether it’s a one-day seminar or several months with a career coach , your drive for personal and professional development helps make your case for a smooth transition into a new industry. 
• Source references: Having a list of professional references and their contact information ready to send to a hiring manager is always a good idea. Carefully choose colleagues who can speak to your passion for your new industry and ability to adapt to change.
• Align all your communications: Consistency and clarity are important to hiring managers. When your LinkedIn profile, letter of intent , and resume have mismatched skills and work experience, the person reading them may pass you over for a candidate with a profile that’s easier to understand and imagine in the role. Double-check that all your information is up-to-date and consistent across all platforms and lines of communication. 
• Proofread : An enthralling story about your decision to dive into a new field can be thwarted by a misspelled word or poorly placed comma. Spelling and grammar errors can jeopardize your chances of an interview — hiring managers may worry that a lack of attention to detail could show up in more important areas of your work performance. If you’re not a natural copy editor, double-check your work with a proofreading app like Grammarly.

Learning to navigate career changes 

A career change is a big life decision , no matter where you are in your professional journey. After you’ve settled into your niche, shaking things up at 30, changing careers at 40 or following a new calling in your 50s might feel increasingly overwhelming. 

But it’s never too late to embrace change. Your professional life occupies a big part of your time, energy, and personal identity. You deserve to feel fulfilled — even if that means choosing a road less traveled. Carefully crafting a cover letter for a career change is an effective way to capture a hiring manager's attention from the jump and move one step closer to an exciting new opportunity. 

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Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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How To Write the Best Career Change Cover Letter

Switching careers can feel like embarking on a journey into uncharted territory — this is particularly true in the tech industry , where a career change often means navigating an entirely different set of digital tools, work processes, responsibilities, and skills. 

You may have prepared yourself for the challenges ahead, furthered your education, and even identified job postings you believe to be a great fit. But without an excellent career change cover letter, your new professional journey could be stalled before it even begins!

Hiring managers only look at resumes for seven seconds before deciding whether to proceed with the application. So, your cover letter has to make an immediate and lasting impression. 

To help you land the job you’ve been dreaming of, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on career change cover letters.

Here are the topics we’ll explore —feel free to skip around to the sections that interest you most:

• What makes it a career change cover letter?
• How to write a career change cover letter in 8 steps

Career change cover letter example: UX design

• Career change cover letter example: Frontend development
• Key takeaways

1. What makes it a career change cover letter?

Before we look at the format and structure of the cover letter, let’s clarify something: it may seem obvious, but what distinguishes traditional cover letters from those written by career changers?

The key difference lies in the way you present yourself and the story you tell. A career change cover letter must demonstrate three main things:

• Your understanding of the job and industry,
• your existing skills and experience, and
• how those can be applied to the new position.

This can be done in several ways, but the most effective cover letters strike a balance between emphasizing transferable skills , demonstrating adaptability, and highlighting your motivation for the career transition. 

Unlike traditional cover letters, they can also address potential concerns about your experience, showcasing your ability to transcend the boundaries of one professional field and excel in another.

2. How to write a career change cover letter in 8 steps

Writing winning cover letters is an art that requires practice, and career-change-specific cover letters are even trickier to tackle. But thankfully, you can follow a few best practices to create a compelling document that will make it easier for potential employers to imagine you in the new role.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of writing an effective cover letter for your career switch, from the opening line to the closing paragraph. So, grab a pen or open up your favorite word processor and write that first draft using the following tips:

1. Address the right person

To avoid using the impersonal salutation, “Dear hiring manager,” take the time to research who will be reading your cover letter. 

If the job ad doesn’t include a name, try searching for the company’s website or LinkedIn page and go to the employees’ section to track down the right person and job title. For example, if you’re applying for a UX designer role , search for “Director of UX Design,” “Creative Director,” or similar.

2. Introduce yourself with a hook

Begin your cover letter with an engaging opening that captures the reader’s attention. 

This could be a statement of your intent, a specific project you’ve recently completed, or a personal connection to the industry that demonstrates your passion and motivation for the career switch. This will set you apart from other candidates and create a memorable first impression.

3. Explain why you’re changing careers

To address your career change head-on, provide a clear rationale for the shift by sharing your personal career change story. For example, you could highlight your enthusiasm for the new field, noting what attracted you to it and any relevant experiences or interests supporting your decision. 

Then, use the power of personal branding to infuse the letter with your unique voice, personality, and vision, focusing on the value you can bring to the new sector. This transparency shows employers you’ve thoughtfully considered the move.

4. Demonstrate understanding of the company

Demonstrate your genuine interest in the organization by showing that you’ve thoroughly researched the company. You can achieve this by discussing its mission statement, values, and recent accomplishments. 

Align your skills, background, and career goals with the company’s objectives to showcase your potential fit within its corporate culture. Doing so will convey your enthusiasm for the role and the organization, increasing your chances of standing out as a suitable candidate.

5. Detail why you’re a great match

A personalized cover letter should also explain why you’re a strong candidate for the position in question. This means identifying the unique qualities that set you apart from other candidates, whether that’s your adaptability, problem-solving abilities, or valuable soft skills that can be applied across various industries. 

Use real-world examples to demonstrate how your skills and past experiences align with the job requirements, and mention how these traits can benefit the company in the long run.

6. Showcase transferable skills

One of the key objectives of your career change cover letter is to demonstrate your value to potential employers in your new field. To do this effectively, pinpoint the skills you’ve acquired in your previous career that are transferable to the new role. 

Use specific examples to illustrate how you’ve applied these skills in different contexts and how they are relevant to your new position. By showcasing your relevant skills and experience, you can effectively demonstrate to employers that you have what it takes to excel in your new career path.

7. Mention relevant professional development

List any skills and knowledge you’ve gained through relevant courses, certifications, or training to showcase your commitment to learning and willingness to invest in your career transition. 

This will set you apart from other aspiring career changers, prove your enthusiasm for the role and help paint a picture of what you can bring to the new position. Doing due diligence upfront will make it easier for potential employers to imagine you in the new role and increase the chances of securing an interview.

8. Conclude on a positive note

When concluding your career change cover letter, it’s essential to end it enthusiastically. For example, name one way you can add value to the company and link it to your overall career vision. 

Finally, thank the hiring manager for considering your application and express your excitement about joining the team. Doing so will show you’re committed to the role and motivated to make a success of your career transition.

3. Career change cover letters example

Want to see cover letter examples that nail these key points? Check out these two samples, written specifically for career changers in the tech sector. Best practice for the email subject line? Put the job title from the job ad along with your full name. 

Career change cover letter: Frontend development

4. key takeaways.

Writing a convincing cover letter that highlights your skills for a role you’re hoping to transition into is an essential step in the job application process. 

A thoughtfully crafted career change cover letter can be the reason why employers take a second look at your resume, despite your limited experience in the new field.

In this article, we’ve gone through the basics of what makes a career change cover letter unique and how to write one tailored to your experience and goals. We’ve also looked at practical tips for structuring your letter and provided examples for your inspiration. 

We hope this guide will give you the confidence to write a standout cover letter and put your best foot forward when applying for jobs.

Looking for more tech-specific application support? Check out our practical guide to crafting the best tech resume , complete with valuable tips and real-world examples.

For further education support on your career change journey, try our free tech short courses ,  or speak directly with a program advisor.

With the help of expert instructors, personalized feedback, and a wealth of learning resources, you’ll soon be ready to tackle even the most complex challenges future employers might throw at you. 

Enjoyed this blog post? We think you’ll like these, too:

• How To Successfully Change Careers in 2024: Your Step-by-Step Guide
• The Top 5 Transferable Skills and How They Can Help You
• How to Build a Personal Brand for Your Tech Career

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Sample Career Change Cover Letter and Writing Tips

• Writing a Career Change Cover Letter

Career Change Cover Letter Sample

How to send an email cover letter.

• Refocus Your Resume to Match

The Balance / Chelsea Damraksa

Are you considering a career change? If you are looking for a position in a different industry or career field, your cover letter or  letter of intent  is an important factor in the likelihood of your getting the job.

Since your resume may not contain the relevant experience that hiring managers are looking for, it's important to use your cover letter as an opportunity to demonstrate why you are a good fit despite lacking that specific employment history.

A well-written and strong cover letter will convince the reader that your work experience is a strength rather than a weakness.

Before you start writing, though, be sure you're clear on your goals for transitioning careers and that you're  positioned for a successful career change job search .

Tips for Writing a Career Change Cover Letter

Any good cover letter explains why you are qualified for the specific job. However, a cover letter written during a  career change  needs to go beyond that.

Be sure to thoroughly  research the company  before writing your cover letter so you can convince the employer that you understand the company and can demonstrate why you want to be a part of it.

You must touch on three important points. This will help you rise above candidates who have more direct experience in the industry. You don’t necessarily have to cover all of these topics in order or in distinct paragraphs. The aim is to make sure you communicate these points somewhere in your letter.

1. Emphasize Your Transferable Skills

Most importantly, focus on the  transferable skills  you have that you can use in the new position rather than on the skills you have that are only related to your current role. Analyze the job description for the position you’re applying to, and look at the skills that the position calls for.

Choose the  ones that best match your own skills or experience . Then, if possible, use specific anecdotes from your work or academic history to illustrate some of these strengths in action. 

2. Highlight Your Superior Performance in Previous Positions

Other applicants may have the relevant experience, but if their experience is mediocre and cannot be backed up by strong references or tangible achievements, you may actually be a more desirable candidate for the job than they are.

In your letter, do your best to explain how you succeeded in previous roles, and connect that to a summary of how you would also add value in this new position.

Make sure your references will corroborate your statements.

3. Express Your Passion for the Company

Mention your passion for the company. This is another way to stand out from qualified candidates. Employers may be more interested in someone who is especially excited about their organization and the job opportunity than they are in someone who just wants a job and doesn’t care about much beyond that. In your cover letter, make it clear that you’re familiar with the organization and enthusiastic about the opportunity to be a part of it.

Read the sample cover letter below, which you can use as a framework for writing your own career change cover letter. However, be sure to edit the sample to fit your personal experiences and the job for which you are applying.

Download the career change cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online).

Sample Career Change Cover Letter (Text Version)

William Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 111-111-1111 william.applicant@email.com

July 21, 2020

Michael Lee Director XYZ Company 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321 

Dear Ms. Lee:

This letter is to express my special interest in discussing the Senior Customer Service Manager position posted on the XYZ Company web site. The opportunity presented in this listing is very appealing, and I believe that my experience and education will make me a competitive candidate for this role.

Although I have been working primarily as an Operations Manager, in this capacity I have interfaced frequently with customers, in addition to vendors and staff. This has instilled multi-dimensional communication skills and an ability to recognize, act upon, and fulfill customer wishes and needs in order to ensure their continued, and positive, relationship with the business.

In fact, in my most recent job as Operations Manager for ABC Company, I received an ‘Excellence in Customer Service’ recognition due to my ability to coordinate complex logistics in order to keep customers happy even when issues arose that were beyond the control of the organization. Again, this involved not only managing operations but also communicating directly with customers. As a result, I believe my combined ability to successfully manage operations while also effectively interfacing with customers makes me a prime candidate for this role.

The key strengths that I possess for success in this position include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Provide exceptional contributions to customer service for all customers. 
• Strive for continued excellence.
• Strong communication skills.
• Eager to learn new things.

You will find me to be well-spoken, energetic, confident, and personable, the type of person on whom your customers will rely. I also have a wide breadth of experience of the type that will allow you the versatility to place me in a number of contexts with confidence that the level of excellence you expect will be met. Please see my resume for additional information on my experience.

I hope that you'll find my experience and interests intriguing enough to warrant a face-to-face meeting, as I am confident that I could provide value to you and your customers as a member of your team. I am very excited about this opportunity to work for XYZ Company. I connect with your mission to “deliver the ‘five star’ factor” to both your staff and your customers. This tenet is reflected in my own professional and personal values, and I believe this alignment strongly supports my candidacy for this role.

I can be reached anytime via my cell phone, 555-555-5555. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this employment opportunity.

William Applicant (signature hard copy letter)

William Applicant

If you're sending your  cover letter via email,  list your name and the job title in the subject line of the  email message . Include your contact information in your email signature, but don't list the employer's contact information. Simply start your email message with the salutation.

Refocus Your Resume to Reflect Your New Goals

When you're seeking a career change, it's important to refocus your resume to reflect your new goals. That way, your resume and cover letter will both show that you're well qualified for a change in roles. Here are six tips for  writing a powerful career change resume  that will help you get started.

Get Ready to Interview

Be prepared, as well, to discuss in job interviews why you're transitioning and what  skills you will bring to prospective employers . It's important to have a comprehensive and professional pitch that will impress the employer and convince them that you're a strong candidate for the job.

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5 Career Change Cover Letter Examples Made for 2024

• Career Change Cover Letter
• Career Change No Experience
• HR Career Change
• Teacher Career Change
• RN Career Change Cover Letter
• Write Your Career Change Cover Letter

Switching careers can be equal parts exciting and daunting. You’re stepping into a whole new path, facing unknown challenges, and rebuilding your personal brand from scratch. There’s a lot at stake here, and to fight this battle and come out on top, you need to pick the right set of weapons.

Step one: a stellar  career change resume  tailored to match the job. Step two, however, is more challenging because you must write a cover letter to wow recruiters and express your excitement at a career change and for the company.

We’re here to help you navigate these murky waters and set the course for the career of your dreams. Our career change  cover letter examples  and free cover letter builder will help you craft a memorable job application.

Career Change Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Why this cover letter works

• For instance, this cover letter points to ways the candidate took initiative to connect sales and marketing. This evidences both interest and experience in the target role.

Pair Your Cover Letter with a Matching Career Change Resume

or download as PDF

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Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifting to write your cover letter in seconds.

Career Change No Experience Cover Letter Example

• Take, for instance, how Aria tells the story of her expertise—meticulous data analysis, project management, and problem-solving and convincingly discusses how these can be valuable assets for the new role. So, extract and communicate those transferable skills.

Human Resources Career Change Cover Letter Example

• Such competencies demonstrate that although it’s a career change, you aren’t a stranger to the environment. If the past stints involved the hiring company’s competitor, emphasize that for bonus familiarity points.

Teacher Career Change Cover Letter Example

• If you’ve earned professional certifications that don’t match your current role but align with your target career, your cover letter is the place to highlight them.

Registered Nurse (RN) Career Change Cover Letter Example

• Look for unlikely connections between your work experience and target role, then put the pieces together for recruiters in your cover letter.

Related cover letter examples

• Graphic designer

How to Write a Fantastic Career Change Cover Letter

You may think that you’re at a disadvantage when you’re applying outside of your previous career, but when it comes to cover letters, that’s not true. Treat this as an excellent opportunity to be creative and stand out from the crowd.

Here’s the trick: give that job description a good read, then whip your cover letter into shape to mirror it. Try to decipher the company’s core values, be it from the job listing or from its website, and highlight that this mission is important to you too. 

Pinpoint similarities across your past and future roles for this. For instance, if you’re switching from teaching to programming, emphasize your ability to explain complex topics to all kinds of audiences.

Writing a winning cover letter intro

The perfect cover letter begins with a personalized greeting that addresses the hiring manager by name. However, if you absolutely cannot find the recipient (try LinkedIn), you can use “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [Company Name] Team.” Refrain from using “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Sir/Madam,” as those can be a little outdated by today’s standards.

Avoid generic starters and instead showcase why your past experience is valuable. For instance, if you previously worked in sales and you’re moving to customer service, highlight your ability to forge lasting relationships with clients.

Check out this example of what not to do below. This opening line is definitely on the uninteresting side—the hiring manager might skim your cover letter if it lacks a proper hook.

No, thank you!

“I am writing to apply for the project manager position I saw on your website. I believe this role is a great fit for me.”

Now, the example below is a huge improvement. The applicant immediately makes it clear that they used to have a different career, but they use this to their advantage by highlighting how their background in working with people can have a deep impact on their new career.

Hooked from the start!

I was inspired to transition my career from nursing into sales when I discovered the impact I could make by connecting people with the right product solutions. I am eager to bring my RN background, where relationship-building is paramount, and my skill set in sales forecasting to American Express as a sales manager.

Writing the main part of your cover letter

Roll up your sleeves because we’re diving into the main part of your cover letter—the body. Use this space as an extension of your resume that elaborates on your skills and the way they can make an impact on the company. 

Find common ground and share some of your greatest achievements that translate well to your new role. For example, if you’re a marketer transitioning into sales, discuss how spearheading a social media campaign increased your company’s revenue by 18%. 

Use metrics to support your accomplishments. Things like revenue, ROI, click-through rates, open rates, customer satisfaction ratings, budget savings, or efficiency improvements all apply to most industries. Much like in the intro, connect your background to match the company.

Here’s a body paragraph for inspiration:

In addition to teaching high school math, I have taught myself web and mobile development, database management, and the version control system Git. I am certified in AWS and Google Cloud, and built an educational app that streamlined school communication, improving homework submission rates by 23%.

Ending your cover letter on a strong note

The closing paragraph is the ribbon that you tie on top of a cohesive whole. It serves to reinforce the sentiments you talked about above—but without repeating yourself.

Emphasize your excitement at joining this particular company, and make sure to mention it by name. Pick one or two of your core skills or qualifications and flex a little—express how you will use these abilities to achieve positive outcomes at your new company.

You’re changing industries, so own it, and explain how, for instance, your knowledge of math can help you write complex code.

Lastly, thank the hiring manager for their consideration—you can do this either in the closing paragraph or in your final sign-off. Dot your i’s and cross your t’s with a respectful “Sincerely, [Your Name].”

It’s important to keep this final part respectful. Don’t assume you’ll be hired—instead of showing confidence, it can come off as presumptuous.

“I’m not experienced but I’m a quick learner, so I can’t wait to start growing my career at your company next month.”

This next example has it all—it reiterates your interest in the role, talks about transferable skills, and thanks the recruiter for taking the time to read your cover letter.

This is the way!

I would be thrilled to meet and discuss how my transition from sales to marketing can drive impactful strategies at Comcast. Thank you for considering my application.

When transitioning careers, it’s important to build credibility out of the gate by addressing the right person. Check the job listing and the company website. If that fails, try identifying the hiring manager via LinkedIn.

If all else fails, talk mostly about your education and preparation for the career change, but there are skills that apply to most jobs, too. For instance, working as a programmer and a travel agent means dealing with data and interacting with people.

While you may rely on transferable skills you used in nursing in your future sales role, avoid assuming this new job will have a similar company culture as your last one. Instead, adjust your tone to match the company. For instance, if the job ad and the website are written with humor, you can afford to crack a small joke or write less formally.

• Cover Letter Tips

How To Write the Best Career Change Cover Letter (+ Examples) 

So, you want to try something completely new? When you’re thinking about a career change, your cover letter is an essential tool. Your resume will tell the hiring manager about your experience, but you’ll use the cover letter to fill in the blanks.

Frankly, when you're changing careers, you have to work just a bit harder than any other applicants with a more intuitive work history. That means showing that the experience you have is an asset and that it can be transferred to this new role. Luckily, you can do all of this (and more!) by writing a well-thought-out career change cover letter. 

A career change cover letter is an opportunity to start a conversation to explain exactly why you're applying for a job outside of your current field. Get this right, and you will convince any hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the job. But how do you get started?

Here at ZipJob, we give you the resources you need to supercharge your job search. In the following guide, we’ll share seven tips from our professional resume writers on how to write the best career change cover letter. We've also got a career change cover letter example for you to check out.

More common than you might think

First, a word of encouragement: In our fast-paced and rapidly changing economy, people are changing careers at rates that would have been unthinkable just a few short generations ago. In fact, recent statistics show that people have an average of 12 jobs in their lifetime. 

That can create problems for many applicants, however, and you may not be sure how you can use your resume to properly convey the right experience needed for your new career. The good news is that you can take care of that concern by using that other vital application tool: the cover letter.

7 tips for your career change cover letter

Ready to put pen to paper? When you're writing a career change cover letter, it's important to stay on task. This isn't the place to write a heart-to-heart that reads more like a journal entry than a professional document. Instead, focus on what makes you a great applicant. 

To help you along the way, we have some expert-backed tips below:

1. Make sure you use the right words

Changing careers is a big deal. While your resume will have covered your skills and experience, you can use this letter to really sell yourself to the hiring manager. What you lack in experience, you may be able to make up for in the willingness to learn.

While you can use your cover letter to explain why you want a new career, it doesn’t start and end there. This is also an opportunity to share why you are ready to switch things up. With that in mind, use words that excite the hiring manager and show your desire to work in your chosen field. The more creative you are with the language you use, the better here.

2. Be honest about your career change

The biggest mistake you could make here is trying to sneak your way into a new sector. The hiring manager already has your resume, so they know that you don’t have experience in this field. You should never try to bamboozle them into interviewing you on the basis of faux experience. Even if you do make it to the interview level, you will soon get found out. 

Instead, you need to be 100% honest about your career change. Direct your cover letter to the hiring manager and be clear about why you are switching industries. For example, you may have reached the highest heights in your current sector and feel it’s time for a change. On the other hand, you may have a real passion for this new field and want to pursue it. 

Whatever your reason is, now is the time to talk about it. You don’t need to write a short memoir. The hiring manager will ask you more in-depth questions at the interview stage. However, it’s smart to outline your reasoning here so that you fill in the blanks. State that you are looking to move sectors and try to give a compelling reason to the reader now.

3. Emphasize your transferable skills

When you’re writing a career change cover letter, this is vital. Transferable skills are your current talents that would help you succeed in a different position. These skills are often soft skills but may also be technical or analytical skills from your previous profession. Identify what your strengths are. How might those help you in another industry?

You can also approach this from the other side by spending some time analyzing the company’s needs. Look at the job description, the company website, and recent media coverage to identify the core skills that this company requires. Once you’ve honed in on those needs, you can determine which of your skills can help to make you a great candidate for the job.

Of course, you should heavily feature your transferable skills on your resume. Once you've noted them, you can offer more of an explanation in your cover letter about how each skill will apply to this new job. 

Emphasize your relevant skills within the body of the career change cover letter too. That means including specific examples of how they have helped you to achieve certain results and goals in the past. Show the hiring manager what you have to bring to the table. You can do this by identifying the overlap between your two fields and highlighting it clearly. Be brief, but be sure to answer why you're applying and why you're worth interviewing.

Key Takeaway

The key to a career change cover letter is to identify and highlight related and transferable skills.

4. Focus on your results

Results matter more than you think. The number one thing that will push you ahead of your competition are fantastic accomplishments on your resume . Your accomplishments are still valid, even when changing careers: awards, honors, and other results that show you're a high-achieving employee will make you look like a winner. 

Your career change cover letter gives you a chance to explain why it's so impressive that you accomplished something. Try to figure out numbers or metrics – these really stand out on resumes and cover letters. Quantifying your results will show the hiring manager that your hard work achieves big things. This fact will surely grab their attention. 

To showcase those results, you need to emphasize the success that you’ve enjoyed in prior jobs, providing details that help to connect those successes to your transferable skills. From there, you only need to complete the picture by explaining how your prior achievements and transferable skills can offer tangible benefits to the new company.

Always use the STAR method

Showcasing your results and quantifying them doesn’t have to be hard. Make your statements stand out by using the STAR method throughout your cover letter. 

5. Demonstrate genuine passion

Let your passion for the company be on full display so that the hiring manager knows you care about getting the position. Mention something new or interesting the company has accomplished, or relate to the company's core values. You can add your personality to your cover letter – as long as it stays relevant!

Take the time to do your homework so that you have a firm understanding of what the company does and how it hopes to achieve its goal. It’s also worth trying to understand the company culture ahead of time. That will enable you to properly convey your passion for the position in the body of your cover letter. In short, figure out what the vibe is and match it.

6. Tailor your resume to reflect your career change goals

If this is your first time creating a career change cover letter, be sure to review your resume when you’re done so that everything is properly coordinated. It all needs to match up. You don’t want any inconsistencies between those two important documents: your cover letter should only talk about experiences that are also mentioned on your resume.

To keep your message clear, make any resume changes that are needed to keep it aligned with the message on your cover letter. Remember, it’s the little things that often make the difference between success and failure. 

If your resume isn't tailored for your career transition goals, check out this article next: How To Tailor Your Resume For Different Positions

7. End with a strong conclusion 

When you’ve done all of the above, it’s time to sign off. The end of your cover letter is a good chance to reaffirm why you want to take this step. You may also want to add that you will help the business in question meet its goals. One of the more critical things you can do with your career change cover letter is insert some type of call to action – encouraging the reader to reach out to you. 

Remember, the hiring manager will naturally slow their reading pace down as they reach the bottom of the page. For that reason, it is vital that you end on a strong and clear note.

Career change cover letter example

This example is to the point and easy to scan through. It has several examples of how the applicant has added value in the past, using numbers that are easy for the reader to translate to a different industry.

Notice also that this letter – like all good cover letters – includes a professional heading and uses a business letter format. It is highly specific, a quick but clear message that you've put some thought into tailoring your cover letter. 

The letter does not use a generic "to whom it may concern" greeting; ideally, you can find the name of the hiring manager. When in doubt, addressing your letter to a "hiring team" is a good alternative.

The heading with your own information was borrowed from the updated resume format we used to share 200+ resume examples written by our professional resume writers. Using the same format for your resume and cover letter is another instance of details that stand out.

Focus on value; win the day 

As you can see, the cover letter for a career change is similar to many others. You still want to focus on the value you can add to the company. By emphasizing your transferable skills, focusing on past achievements, and demonstrating your interest in the new company, you should be able to leverage your existing skill set in a way that sets you apart from the crowd.

Ready to take the leap and start that new career? Use the ZipJob free resume review now to get the insights that you need to perfect your next application and get ahead of the competition. 

Recommended reading: 

9 Cover Letter Mistakes That Cost You Interviews - ZipJob

7 Signs It's Time To Quit Your Job

How to Ask for a Job Referral + 5 Examples

Charlotte Grainger, Editor & Content Writer, Charlotte Grainger, Editor & Content Writer

Charlotte Grainger is a freelance writer living and working in Sheffield, UK. She has a passion for career development and loves sharing tips and advice. Follow her on Twitter

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How to Write a Career Change Cover Letter in 7 Steps (+3 Cover Letter Examples)

• Julia Mlcuchova , 
• Updated April 17, 2024 14 min read

How do you write a career change cover letter ? You write it well, of course! After all, the cover letter can make or break your chances at successfully completing a career switch. 

Not that career change is easy to begin with. It can often feel like trying to make your way through an obstacle course — no matter where you turn, new challenges just keep popping out of nowhere. And yet, a staggering 58% of workers are thinking about changing careers , according to a FlexJobs survey .

But inevitably, there comes a moment when you'll need to justify your choice to a new employer and prove that you're more than well-equipped to handle the new responsibilities.  

And what better way to do that than via a cover letter! 

So, if you want to change careers this year, keep reading to discover:

• What is a cover letter;
• Whether you should write a cover letter for career change;
• How to write a cover letter for a career change in just 7 steps;
• And, 3 career change cover letter examples.

Table of Contents

Click on a section to skip

What is a cover letter?

Should you write a cover letter for career change, how to write a cover letter for a career change in 7 steps, career change cover letter examples, key takeaways: career change cover letter.

A cover letter is a formal document which, together with a resume, makes up the core of any well-rounded job application. 

It serves as the first point of contact between you and the recruiters. And for that reason, it's responsible for making the first impression (good or bad).

Unlike a resume, a cover letter allows you to:

• share a bit of your personality, 
• provide context for your background, 
• and present your career aspirations. 

It's your chance to make a compelling case for why you should be considered for the role, beyond just the bullet points on your resume. 

Yes, you absolutely should!

Let us explain: A resume is great for presenting the numbers and objective facts. But it doesn't offer you much space for creating a compelling narrative . 

When you're applying for a job as a career changer , you're already at a disadvantage - you're missing one of the crucial ingredients for the ideal job candidate.

An average recruiter needs only 6 seconds to look at your resume and recognize your lack of experience as a problem. And that's reason enough to move your application from the list of potential candidates to the bin.  

But it's all about perspective. And perspectives can change based on how you frame it — is your career change really a shortcoming? Or is it a testimony to your passion, dedication, and willingness to leave the comforts of your old job for a new one? 

Changing careers but don't feel like writing your cover letter?

Let our AI Cover Letter Writer handle it for you. Your first draft will be ready in seconds!

Although there isn't any definitive or universal manual on how to write the perfect career change cover letter, following these 7 steps will allow you to craft one which hits all the marks that matter.

Place your contact information ( including: your name; professional email address; phone number; link to your web page/portfolio/social media accounts if relevant) in the top section of your cover letter.

If you can find the name of the hiring manager, simply greet them with “Dear [full name],” or “Dear Mrs/Mr [last name],” . If not, you can address the letter more generally to “Dear Hiring Manager,” or “Dear Recruitment Office,” .

Capture the hiring manager's attention by making your goals and motivation for the new job position known. For example, you can share a personal story or an anecdote that shows your passion for the job in a unique way. 

Despite any possible discomfort, you have to be transparent about the fact that you don't have any previous work experience in the given job position. Any attempt at camouflaging could reflect badly on your professionalism and integrity. 

You must prove that despite not having previous work experience in this particular position, you're still able to handle the responsibilities and duties that define it. For this purpose, use transferable skills that you've picked up in your former profession, during volunteering, through courses, or thanks to your lifelong interest in the job position.

Additionally, establish a sentimental connection between yourself and the potential employer. You can reference, for example, the company's mission, values, recent projects, or any charities/non-profit organization the company promotes.

Finally, in the closing statement you should: 1. Reiterate your desire to work for the company, 2. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration, 3. Include a call for action, 4. Sign off professionally.

Now, we'll look at each of these steps in more detail.

Step 1: Start with your contact information

First of all, you need to deal with the basic conventions. After all, a cover letter is still a formal letter, though in digital form. And every formal letter needs to contain details about its sender. 

These include:

• professional email address,
• current phone number,
• link to online portfolio/web page/ social media accounts (if relevant) .

Make sure that all your contact information is updated and spelled correctly . This may seem obvious, but you'd be surprised how easily these small mistakes can creep in. 

Place your contact information at the top of your career change cover letter so that they draw the attention of recruiters immediately. 

Don't forget to also mention the company's contact information or that of its hiring manager. This isn't all that necessary but again…formalities.

Step 2: Open with a polite greeting

If you're lucky, the name of the hiring manager (or recruiter) will be mentioned somewhere in the job posting you're responding to. Unfortunately, that's not always the case. 

But with the power of the internet by your side, this shouldn't be much of a problem. Try to dig up the addressee's name from the company's official website or their LinkedIn profile .

It's always better to address the hiring manager by their name — it helps establish a personal connection between you two. 

But don't overthink it! A simple “Dear [first name] [last name],” or “Dear Mrs/Mr [last name],”  will do just fine. 

In case the hiring manager's name is nowhere to be found, you can use one of these 5 email salutations . 

Step 3: Kick off with a strong introductory paragraph

The purpose of your cover letter's introductory paragraph is to give the reader a little something to make them interested in the rest of your cover letter. 

Normally, you'd try to hook the reader by pointing out that you fulfill the main candidate requirements. Like so:

Opening paragraph example

“As a seasoned professional with a Master’s Degree in Business Economics , I bring four years of comprehensive experience in the finance sector, highlighted by leading a team that successfully increased our portfolio’s annual growth by 20%.”

But since you're switching careers, this formula won't work for you. Instead, you could charm the recruiters with your:

• motivation,
• passion, 
• or purpose. 

These are the cards you need to play when writing a career change cover letter! 

So, don't be afraid to get personal here — share a story that depicts the workings behind your decision to switch careers. Just remember to stay professional! It's a fine line, we know, but you must tread it expertly. 

For example, your introduction could look something like this: 

Opening paragraph for career change cover letter example

“My journey into the world of business finance began unexpectedly, over coffee chats and spreadsheets helping my family’s small business navigate tough financial waters. This experience wasn’t just eye-opening; it became a calling. I realized my knack for numbers and strategic planning could make a real difference beyond the classroom. That’s why I’m thrilled about the opportunity to bring my passion and fresh perspective to [Company Name] as part of your finance team.”

Step 4: Address your career change

And now it's time to acknowledge the elephant in the room!

While it may be tempting to conceal the fact that you're trying to enter a new profession, don't hide it. In the end, it could cause you more harm than good. 

Because the recruiters will know just by taking a single glance at your career change resume . 

Fail to address this, and you're running the risk of giving the impression that you're unprofessional. Or that you're being dishonest. And either of the two can leave a really bad taste. 

So, when writing about your career switch, be upfront, be direct, but don't be apologetic! Remember, you need to persuade the recruiters that you're confident in your abilities.

Step 5: Showcase your potential with transferable skills

Basically, this part of your career change cover letter is all about closing the gap between what you used to do and what you want to do. 

In other words, you must show that you have more to offer besides your unrivaled motivation. 

And the best way to do this is by talking about any relevant transferable skills you've picked up along the way. The keyword being relevant! 

For example, the project manager skills you developed while working in marketing may translate well into leading teams in pretty much any industry. Or the insights into SEO that you've gained as a copywriter can become valuable in your new PR position.

In short, your transferable skills can be anything from hard skills like computer proficiencies , to soft skills like problem-solving , leadership, communication, team management, and so on.  

Besides abilities you've gained from a previous employment, you can also focus on those you've acquired thanks to: 

• volunteering,
• lifelong interest in a specific profession,
• personal projects and ventures,
• and training/certifications/ courses .

But don't just list them! 

Instead, you need to clearly demonstrate how your new employers would benefit from your skills despite coming from a different background. 

Here's a brief how-to:

• Firstly, you need to brainstorm about what skills you possess that might be useful in your new job position. 
• Then, align them with the requirements outlined in the job posting. 
• Out of the bunch pick 2-3 skills that are essential for succeeding in the new position. 
• Finally, provide a proof that you have these skills by giving examples of how you utilized them in your previous job (back your claims by quantifiable data if possible).

Transferable skills on a cover letter example

“In my role as a Project Manager, I led a team of 10 in developing and executing a marketing campaign that resulted in a 25% increase in customer engagement over six months. This experience honed my skills in strategic planning , c ross-functional team leadership , and data-driven decision-making . I am excited to apply these skills to the role of [New Position], where I can contribute to [Company’s] success.”

Step 6: Highlight your interest in the company

And don't just say that you want to work for them because they pay more. In fact, don't mention salary at all! 

In this section of your career change cover letter, you need to show your affinity to this particular company that goes beyond mere financial gain. Why them?

But before you jump into it headfirst, do these three things: research, research, and more research! 

Read their website, stalk their social accounts, go through their quarterly reports, pull up any news articles, look at their LinkedIn page — and do all that without reservations. And try to find answers to the following questions:  

• What is the company culture like?
• What are the company values/mission?
• What projects did they work on? 
• What events did they organize?
• Do they support any non-profit organizations? 

Let the information you learn be your pointers. And then, all you need to do is try to be as honest as you can. 

For your inspiration, consider this example:

Showing affinity with company example

“I’ve always admired the Neverwas Company for not just what you do, but how you do it—especially your support for the Environment Institution in cleaning up local beaches last summer. It’s this kind of work that inspires me. In my last job, I organized community clean-up events, and I see a lot of overlap in our values. I’m excited about the chance to bring my passion and skills to a team that cares so much about making a difference.”

Step 7: Bow out with a strong closing paragraph

And now, all that's left to do is apply a few finishing touches. 

The final paragraph of your career change cover letter should include: 

• A reiteration of your desire to work for the company. But only briefly. 
• An expression of gratitude. Thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.
• A call for action. Such as expressing your wish for a personal meeting. 
• An appropriate sign-off. Depending on how you greeted the recipient of your cover letter, you can sign off with either “Yours sincerely,” or “Best regards,”. If you addressed the recruiter by their name, sign off with the former; if not, use the latter. 

In case you'd like to see how to close the curtain with finesse, these 8 great cover letter endings are just waiting to be read. 

And now, let's put all these steps together and look at 3 complete cover letters, made with our cover letter templates .

#1 Career change cover letter example

This cover letter was written by our experienced resume writers specifically for this profession.

Why does it work?

• This example does a great job of making the text digestible and easy to follow . Because the last thing you want is to have your cover letter looking cluttered and disorganized. 
• Another interesting element is the inclusion of bullet points . It’s yet another way of making you cover letter visually distinct.

#2 Career change cover letter example

This cover letter was made using Kickresume templates.

What’s good about this example?

• The candidate’s contact information stands apart from the rest of the text, making it easy to spot. 
• Also, this person manages to bridge the gap between marketing and UX design by identifying a principle common for both - customer satisfaction. This motive is then repeated throughout the whole cover letter. 
• Another thing worth pointing out is the detailed description of the candidate's most relevant achievements .

#3 Career change cover letter example

What can you take away.

• This cover letter example opens with a bang ! The candidate communicates his passion for the new job load and clear. From his writing, it's obvious that his career change was inspired by a genuine desire to facilitate memorable events for his clients. 
• Despite the fact that accountancy and event organization have very little in common, Robert was able to draw transferable skills from his volunteering experience . 
• And, to better illustrate the scope of his skills, Bob provided quantifiable data to bolster his competencies. 

For more cover letter samples, feel free to browse our cover letter database .

To sum it all up, a compelling career change cover letter is your best bet at persuading hiring managers to give you a chance. 

As a career changer, you probably have little to no work experience that directly relates to the profession you want to transition to. That's why you should focus your cover letter on: 

• your passion and dedication to the job
• any relevant transferable skills 
• explaining your reasons for the professional pivot

To craft an effective cover letter that addresses all three themes mentioned above, we recommend following these simple 7 steps:  

• Start with your contact information
• Open with a polite greeting
• Kick off with a strong introductory paragraph
• Address your career change
• Showcase your potential with transferable skills
• Highlight your interest in the company
• Bow out with closing paragraph

Finally, if you've just started looking into a career change because you're unhappy in your current job but don't know what profession to focus on, feel free to explore how to become:

• an architect ,
• a real estate agent ,
• a psychologist ,
• a human resources manager ,
• a chiropractor ,
• or a Scrum Master .

As a rule, your cover letter shouldnt exceed one page! Anything longer than that and you're risking discouraging the hiring manager from ever reading it. Your cover letter should recount the best parts of your professional life and your motivation, not the whole story.

By far the biggest mistake you can make is NOT customizing your cover letter to fit specific requirements of the job posting you're responding to. Other minor, but no less significant, mistakes include: spelling errors, grammar mistakes, and typos. So make sure you proofread your cover letter before hitting send. 

Although your cover letter is still a formal document, it's also your chance to establish a connection with the recruiter on a personal level. And your tone of voice should reflect both of these realities. Be professional, but not too stiff; confident but not arrogant; friendly, but not too nonchalant.

That depends.You can name-drop your previous employer if you feel like it will give you more professional credit. But don't dwell on this for too long. And never EVER speak badly about your past employer, colleagues, or team. Such behaviour reflects negatively on your professionalism and integrity.

When you're looking for a new job, every moment is precious. That's why you should consider trying an AI tool that helps you create the first draft of your cover letter. Simply enter your most recent job title, press the “Use AI Writer” button and the AI writer will generate a cover letter for you. And the best thing is, you can try it for free .

Julia has recently joined Kickresume as a career writer. From helping people with their English to get admitted to the uni of their dreams to advising them on how to succeed in the job market. It would seem that her career is on a steadfast trajectory. Julia holds a degree in Anglophone studies from Metropolitan University in Prague, where she also resides. Apart from creative writing and languages, she takes a keen interest in literature and theatre.

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How to Write a Career Change Cover Letter [Examples]

By Status.net Editorial Team on August 31, 2023 — 21 minutes to read

• Key Elements of a Career Change Cover Letter Part 1
• How to Highlight Your Transferable Skills Part 2
• Relating Your Career Change to Your New Role Part 3
• Using Accomplishments to Sell Your Skills Part 4
• How to Target Your Cover Letter to the Company Part 5
• How to Format Your Career Change Cover Letter Part 6
• Template of a Career Change Cover Letter Part 7
• Examples of Career Change Cover Letters Part 8
• How to Write an Effective Opening and Closing Paragraph Part 9
• Best Practices Part 10

Part 1 Key Elements of a Career Change Cover Letter

Opening paragraph.

Begin your career change cover letter with a strong opening paragraph to grab the reader’s attention. Clearly state your intention to change careers and specify the job you’re applying for. Mention how you came across the opportunity (e.g., through a job ad or company website). Briefly highlight your passion for the new role and the company.

“As a seasoned marketing professional with over 10 years of experience, I am excited to apply for the position of Human Resources Manager. After careful consideration and self-reflection, I have come to the realization that my true passion lies in helping organizations build and develop their most valuable asset: their people. When I saw the job posting for this role, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to pursue my passion for HR.”

“I am writing to express my interest in the position of Junior Software Engineer at ABC Tech. Although my background is in finance and accounting, I have always been fascinated by the world of technology and have been teaching myself to code in my spare time.”

“I am thrilled to apply for the position of Interior Designer at DEF Design. As a former teacher, I have always had a passion for creating inspiring and functional spaces that promote learning and creativity. After years of helping my friends and family with their home decor projects, I have decided to make a career change and pursue my dream of becoming an interior designer. When I saw the job posting for this role, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to take the leap and start a new chapter in my career.”

In the body of your cover letter, focus on showcasing your transferable skills and achievements that make you a strong fit for the new role. Discuss your relevant skills and experience you’ve gained from your current or previous jobs. Emphasize your soft skills and communication skills that can be applied across industries. For example:

• Transferable skills : Outline skills that can be applied to the new role, such as project management, problem-solving, and collaboration.
• Achievements : Describe your accomplishments from your current position and how they relate to the new job.
• Relevant experience : Explain any relevant experience or training you’ve had that supports your career change.

Try to connect your skills and experience to the specific job ad, highlighting how you can add value to the company.

“As a marketing professional, I have developed a range of transferable skills that I believe would make me an excellent fit for the Human Resources Manager position at XYZ Company. In my current role, I have honed my project management skills by leading cross-functional teams to execute successful marketing campaigns. I am also skilled at problem-solving, having navigated complex challenges such as budget constraints and shifting market trends. Additionally, my experience collaborating with internal and external stakeholders has taught me the importance of clear communication and building strong relationships. I am confident that these skills will translate well to the HR function and allow me to excel in this new role.”

“Although my background is in finance and accounting, I have gained a wealth of relevant experience that would enable me to thrive as a Junior Software Engineer at ABC Tech. In my current position, I have honed my attention to detail and ability to work independently, both of which are crucial in a technical role. I have taken several online coding courses and have completed a coding bootcamp to further develop my technical skills. I am excited to apply these skills to a new industry and to continue learning and growing as a software engineer.”

“As a former teacher, I have developed a range of soft skills that I believe would make me an excellent fit for the Interior Designer position at DEF Design. In my previous role, I honed my creativity and attention to detail by designing lesson plans and classroom materials that engaged and inspired my students. I also developed strong communication and collaboration skills by working closely with colleagues and parents to support student learning. Additionally, I have taken several interior design courses and have completed a certification program to gain the technical skills necessary for this role. I am eager to apply my passion for design and my transferable skills to a new industry and to contribute to the success of DEF Design.”

Closing Statement

The closing statement of your cover letter should reiterate your interest in the job and the company. Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and convey your belief in being a great fit for the role. Politely mention your attached resume and request an interview to further discuss how your skills and experiences align with the company’s needs.

“Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my transferable skills and passion for HR to your team. I am confident that my experience in project management, problem-solving, and collaboration, combined with my enthusiasm for this new role, make me a strong fit for the position. Please find my attached resume for your review and do not hesitate to contact me to schedule an interview. I look forward to discussing my qualifications in more detail and learning more about the company.”

“I appreciate the opportunity to apply for the Junior Software Engineer position at ABC Tech. I am excited about the prospect of applying my financial background and technical skills to a new industry and contributing to the success of your team. I believe that my experience in analytical thinking, attention to detail, and independent work, combined with my passion for software development, make me a great fit for the role. My resume is attached for your review, and I would welcome the chance to discuss my qualifications further in an interview. Thank you for your consideration.”

“Thank you for considering my application for the Interior Designer position at DEF Design. I am thrilled about the opportunity to pursue my passion for design and to contribute to your team’s success. My experience as a teacher has honed my creativity, attention to detail, and communication skills, all of which I believe would be valuable in this role. I am confident that my transferable skills and my technical training in interior design make me a strong candidate. Please find my attached resume for your review, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications with you further in an interview.”

Part 2 Highlighting Your Transferable Skills and Qualifications

• Start by identifying your key transferable skills. Consider the skills you’ve mastered in your current role, such as technical skills like programming or proficiency in tools like R, or interpersonal skills like strong communication and leadership abilities. Think about how these skills can contribute to your success in your desired position.
• Next, provide specific examples of how you’ve used these transferable skills in your work experience. Write about instances when you’ve demonstrated your strengths, focusing on what is most relevant to the new position. For instance, if you’re applying for a role where programming is a vital component, discuss a project where you used R or another programming language to solve a problem or streamline a process.
• Make sure to also mention any relevant qualifications or certifications you’ve achieved to strengthen your case. This could be a professional certification in your skillset, such as a programming bootcamp or a project management course, or even a specific degree that might be advantageous to the new role.

Transferable Skill – Communication

“In my current role as a customer service representative, I have honed my communication skills by handling a wide range of customer inquiries and complaints. I am confident in my ability to effectively communicate with clients and colleagues, both verbally and in writing. I believe this skill will be valuable in a new role where clear communication is essential.”

Transferable Skill – Leadership

“As a team leader in my current role, I have successfully managed a team of 10 employees, delegating tasks and providing guidance as needed. I have also implemented new processes and procedures that have improved team productivity and efficiency. I believe that my leadership skills will be an asset in a new role where I can help guide and motivate a team towards success.”

Relevant Qualification (Specific Degree)

“I hold a degree in marketing and have extensive experience developing and executing marketing campaigns for a variety of clients. I believe that my degree and experience in marketing will be valuable in a new role where I can use my skills to help promote and grow the organization.”

Relevant Qualification (Professional Certification)

“I recently completed a project management course through the Project Management Institute and received my PMP certification. This certification has provided me with a strong foundation in project management principles and best practices.”

Part 3 Relating Your Career Change to Your New Role

When writing a career change cover letter, it’s crucial to connect the dots for the hiring manager between your past experience and the new role you’re pursuing. Your letter should highlight your transferable skills, demonstrate your enthusiasm for the new career path, and provide evidence of your competence.

• First, take the time to thoroughly research the role and learn about the company’s values. This understanding will help you craft a focused cover letter that shows you’re not only aligned with the new job opportunity, but also could bring incredible value to the organization.
• Next, identify your transferable skills from your current and previous positions. These skills may include project management, problem-solving, or interpersonal abilities. Emphasize how these skills will be an asset in your new role. For example, if you’re moving from sales to marketing, your ability to build relationships with clients can be a great advantage in creating strategic marketing campaigns.
• Additionally, showcase how taking on new responsibilities or specific projects in your current job can be directly related to the desired role. This demonstrates that you’re proactive and eager to learn new skills. For example, if you’re transitioning from a graphic design role to a UX design role, mention that you participated in user experience workshops or studied user-centered design on your own.
• Don’t forget to include any relevant volunteer work, online courses, or certifications that align with your new career path. These experiences show your commitment to meaningful work and self-improvement. Make sure to mention any achievements or endorsements from your peers, as this will strengthen your credibility.
• Lastly, express your excitement about the new career opportunity. Let the hiring manager know that you’re dedicated, enthusiastic, and determined in your pursuit of this career change. Convey your passion for contributing to the new industry and explain how your background and values can help achieve the company’s goals.

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name] and achieve the company’s goals. My background and values align with the organization’s mission, and I am eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to the team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications with you.

Part 4 Using Accomplishments to Sell Your Skills

When writing a career change cover letter, it’s essential to highlight your accomplishments to showcase your skills. By doing so, you can demonstrate to the employer that you can bring value to their organization, even if your experience is in a different field.

Start by listing your most relevant achievements. Think about the tangible outcomes you’ve produced in your previous roles. These could be increasing sales numbers, creating efficient processes, or implementing cost-saving measures. Focus on positive results that have had a notable impact on your past employers.

Next, identify the transferable skills you used to achieve these successes. Some common transferable skills include communication, problem-solving, leadership, and project management. In your cover letter, describe how these skills have contributed to your accomplishments and how they will be applicable in the new role.

To make your points clear and concise, consider using bullet points to highlight your past accomplishments and the skills you used to achieve them. For example:

• Increased revenue by 20% through improved customer engagement by leveraging my strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Streamlined project workflows, reducing completion times by 30%, which highlights my excellent problem-solving and organizational capabilities.

Part 5 How to Target Your Cover Letter to the Company

When writing a career change cover letter, try to tailor it to the specific company and job role that you’re applying for. Start by researching the company to understand its mission, values, and culture. This will help you craft a personalized cover letter that speaks directly to the hiring manager and demonstrates your knowledge and enthusiasm for the position.

Don’t just focus on your transferable skills, but also show how your experiences and values align with the company’s mission. For example, if the company is dedicated to promoting environmental awareness, highlight any relevant experience or passion you have in this area.

As you research the company, dig deeper into how it’s involved in the community and any ongoing projects that match your interests or skills. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to highlight how your expertise can contribute to the company’s goals. It will also help you stand out from other applicants who might not be as familiar with the organization.

When addressing your cover letter, avoid using generic greetings like “To Whom It May Concern.” Instead, try to find the name of the hiring manager or human resources representative responsible for reviewing job applications. A personalized greeting shows that you’ve made an effort to learn more about the company and its team members.

Part 6 How to Format Your Career Change Cover Letter

Before starting your career change cover letter, make sure you have researched the company you’re applying to. Having a clear understanding of their mission, values, and products or services will help you tailor your cover letter to their needs.

To begin formatting your career change cover letter, start with the basic structure. Align everything to the left and use a professional font like Arial or Times New Roman with a font size of 11 or 12. Be conscious of your margins and spacing, as you’ll want your letter visually appealing and easy to read.

When addressing the recipient, use their name if you have it and “Dear Hiring Manager” if you don’t.

In the body of your cover letter, aim for three paragraphs. The first paragraph is where you’ll highlight the specific job you’re applying for and briefly mention why you’re interested in the position and the company. Next, use the second paragraph to showcase your transferable skills and relevant experience to the new position. You may refer to your career change resume here. Be sure to provide specific examples to demonstrate your capabilities. The third paragraph is where you express your enthusiasm for the opportunity and show how your skills can benefit the company. It’s also an excellent place to mention any connections you may have within the company or any other commonalities between you and the hiring manager.

As you wrap up your letter, use a closing phrase such as “Sincerely” followed by your full name. Do not forget to proofread your cover letter for any grammar, spelling, or formatting errors.

Feel free to utilize cover letter templates to help with formatting and structure, but remember to inject your personality and make it unique to your situation.

Part 7 Template of a Career Change Cover Letter

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Position] role at [Company Name]. Although my professional background has been primarily focused on [Current Industry or Job], I am excited about the opportunity to transition into a new career path and bring my skills and experience to [New Industry or Job].

In my current role as [Current Job Title], I have developed strong skills in [Skill 1], [Skill 2], and [Skill 3]. These skills are transferable and would be valuable in the [New Industry or Job] field. Additionally, I have always been passionate about [New Industry or Job] and have taken steps to gain experience in this field through [Volunteer Work, Courses, or Projects].

I am confident that my skills, experience, and passion make me a strong candidate for the [Position] role at [Company Name]. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Part 8 Examples of Career Change Cover Letters

When writing a career change cover letter, it’s essential to show your passion for the new industry and emphasize the transferable skills you possess. Here are a few examples for different roles to help you get started.

Example 1: Marketing to Customer Service

Subject: Application for Customer Service Manager position

Dear Hiring Manager,

As a marketing professional with over five years of experience, I’ve honed my communication and problem-solving skills, making me an excellent candidate for the Customer Service Manager position at your company. I am eager to apply my strong organization and time management abilities to the customer service field.

At my current job as a Marketing Coordinator, I am responsible for resolving clients’ concerns and ensuring their satisfaction with our services. My ability to empathize and effectively address client needs will serve me well in serving your valued customers.

I am excited for the opportunity to further develop my skills in customer service and contribute to your organization’s success.

[Your Name]

Example 2: Executive Assistant to Graphic Designer

Subject: Application for Graphic Designer position

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Graphic Designer role at your esteemed company. With over six years of experience as an Executive Assistant, I have acquired strong design skills through the creation of visually appealing presentations, reports, and marketing materials.

My expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, coupled with a keen eye for design, has enabled me to develop innovative graphics for various projects. My work as an Executive Assistant has also enhanced my attention to detail, ability to prioritize tasks, and meet tight deadlines.

I am excited to make a successful career change and look forward to contributing my creativity and passion for design to your team.

Best regards,

Example 3: Software Engineer to Public Relations

Subject: Application for Public Relations Specialist position

I am writing to apply for the Public Relations Specialist position at your company. As a software engineer with over four years of experience in the tech industry, I have developed exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to tailor messages for diverse audiences.

In addition to my technical background, I have volunteered at local non-profit organizations, helping to promote their missions through social media and email campaigns. I believe my technical expertise and passion for storytelling make me a strong candidate for the Public Relations Specialist role.

I look forward to the opportunity to transition into the public relations field and contribute to the success of your organization.

Kind regards,

Part 9 How to Write an Effective Opening and Closing Paragraph

Writing a persuasive opening paragraph for your career change cover letter is essential. Your goal is to grab the reader’s attention and set the tone for the rest of the letter. Start by addressing the specific person or company you’re reaching out to. Avoid using generic greetings like “To Whom It May Concern.”

Show enthusiasm for the position right from the start. Use your communication skills to briefly demonstrate why you’re excited about the opportunity and the company’s values. You could also mention a recent achievement or news related to the company to create a connection.

• In your opening paragraph, express your confidence in your ability to excel in the new role. While you may lack direct experience in the field, highlight your relevant transferable skills – there’s often overlap between various professions. For instance, mention your project management, problem-solving, or negotiation skills, as these are valuable in many industries.
• Concisely explain the reason behind your career change, demonstrating your genuine interest in the new field. This is your opportunity to create a compelling narrative about your career journey and show your commitment to this new direction.
• Now, let’s focus on the closing paragraph. You should maintain the confident, knowledgeable tone you established earlier in your cover letter. Reiterate your excitement and interest in the position, summarizing key points from the rest of the letter.
• Don’t forget to include a call to action, where you politely request an opportunity for further discussion, like an interview. This shows a proactive attitude, which is important when making a career change.
• Finally, express gratitude for the reader’s time and consideration. A simple, sincere “Thank you” can leave a lasting impression and set the stage for future interactions.

Part 10 Best Practices

Here are some tips to help you create an effective cover letter that will impress hiring managers and increase your chances of getting the job:

• Research the organization and job description : Start by understanding the company’s values, culture, and specific needs. Tailor your cover letter to align with the job description and highlight your relevant qualifications and skills.
• Highlight your transferable skills : Emphasize the skills you’ve gained from your previous positions that can be applied to the new industry. For example, if you’re transitioning from a sales role to e-commerce, focus on your customer relations, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
• Show enthusiasm for the new opportunity : Mention the reasons why you’re passionate about transitioning into the new industry and how the job aligns with your long-term career goals. Be genuine and positive.
• Connect your previous experiences : Find ways to link your past positions, training activities, or volunteer work to the job you’re applying for. Demonstrate how your combination of experience and skills make you the perfect candidate for the new role.
• Don’t downplay your accomplishments : Just because you’re changing industries doesn’t mean your previous accomplishments don’t matter. Be confident when discussing your achievements and expertise.
• Proofread and format : Always proofread your cover letter for any grammar or spelling errors. Use appropriate formatting to make it visually appealing, easy to read, and professional-looking.
• Follow up : After sending your cover letter and resume, don’t hesitate to follow up with the hiring manager or recruiter. This expresses your interest in the job and can potentially lead to an interview.

Related: Interview Follow-up Email Examples (1-2-3 weeks)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key elements to include in a career change cover letter.

• A strong opening paragraph that grabs attention and mentions your reason for applying.
• A brief summary of your professional background and relevant experience.
• A detailed explanation of the transferable skills you possess that make you a suitable candidate.
• A customized approach that demonstrates your understanding of the company and position.
• A confident closing that expresses enthusiasm and requests an interview.

How can I highlight transferable skills in my cover letter?

• Identify the most relevant skills required for the new role.
• Provide concrete examples of how you’ve used these skills to achieve success in past positions.
• Explain why these skills will help you succeed in the new role and benefit the company.
• Make sure to mention any additional training or certifications that demonstrate your commitment to learning new skills.

What are some examples of strong career change statements?

• “As a dedicated customer service professional with over 10 years of experience, I believe my skills in relationship-building and problem-solving make me the right fit for the marketing specialist role at X company.”
• “While working as a sales representative, I developed a strong passion for digital marketing and have recently completed a digital marketing certificate. I’m excited to combine my sales and marketing skills to contribute to the success of X organization as a digital marketer.”

How can I tailor my cover letter for a specific job change?

• Research the company and learn about their values, culture, and goals.
• Understand the job requirements and mention how your skills align with them.
• Refer to the company’s specific needs and challenges, and explain how your background can help solve them.
• Use relevant keywords and phrases from the job description in your cover letter text.
• How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation [Examples]
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• How To Write a Cover Letter [Inspiring Examples]
• A Perfect Letter of Introduction [Examples]
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Career Change Cover Letter Sample

This career change cover letter sample can be used when you are applying for a job opportunity in a different career field.

Focus on those transferable skills and competencies you have that are relevant to the new career opportunity. Use the job posting to identify the required competencies and articulate these clearly in your cover letter.

Adapt this sample cover letter to meet the needs of your specific situation. Convince the employer that you are able to do the new job and to do it well.

SAMPLE CAREER CHANGE COVER LETTER

Your Name Your Address Your Contact details (phone and email) Date Contact Name Contact Job Title Company Name Company Address Company City, State, Zip Code

Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms Smith

It is with interest and enthusiasm that I respond to your job opening for position. I strongly believe that the skills and abilities I have gained during my career to date make me an excellent candidate for this opportunity. The key competencies I possess which relate directly to your job requirements include:

• Communication skills - successful in building strong co-operative relationships with key clients and decision-makers.
• Problem solving ability - regarded as a resourceful problem solver evident in the successful development and implementation of new policies and procedures.
• Planning and organizing - proven track record of effectively prioritizing multiple tasks and assignments in a fast-paced work environment to efficiently meet departmental and company objectives.
• Team player - a solid reputation as a competent team member who is always prepared to go the extra mile to achieve results.
• Self starter - considered a highly motivated employee with the capacity to learn quickly and take responsibility for my own development.

I  am convinced that my broad experience in previous career field has equipped me with a strong set of valuable competencies that meet your needs. I am eager to combine my previous experience with my passion for new career field in order to work hard and make a meaningful contribution to your organization.

I would welcome the opportunity for a personal interview to discuss this further. Please contact me at your earliest convenience to set up a time and date for us to meet.

Thank you for your time and consideration and I look forward to speaking with you soon.

Jack Jobseeker

How to write a persuasive career change cover letter

Your cover letter should come across as a strong endorsement of your ability to succeed in the new career field. This can be achieved by highlighting the following in your cover letter:

• your transferable skills and competencies that will make a direct and positive impact on successful job performance in your new career
• your workplace strengths
• your strong commitment to the new career and your passion for the job and the company

Find out more about how to develop a job-winning career change cover letter at Career Change Cover Letter Sample Tips

What to focus on in your career change cover letter

Focus on the skills needed for the job opportunity. To find out the skills and competencies required for different jobs and careers when writing a career change cover letter visit sample job descriptions .

The job skills list provides detailed information on the skills used in different career fields.

Know more about job-related competencies. View the 12 core competencies identified as critical for successful job performance across all career fields.

Find out how to identify your work-related strengths. Go to this comprehensive list of strengths.

How to write a career change resume objective

Writing an objective for your resume as a career changer can be a challenge. Use these career change resume objective examples to help you.

Find out what to say when changing careers  in your cover  letter and resume

CAREER CHANGE

Career Change Resume Objective

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View over 50 resume samples to get help with developing your own convincing resume.

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Need a new career? Use this career cover letter sample to help you secure a new challenge.

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Top 3 Transferable Skills For Your Next Career Move

Preparing to add that #OpentoWork label on LinkedIn? Perhaps you’ve been laid off or simply feel stuck and want to embark on something new.

Career transitions can be stressful, but they can also be overwhelmingly positive — offering a new beginning and a chance to evaluate, reset, and pivot to a more fulfilling career. 

At GA, we’re all about helping you reimagine your career in design , coding , data analytics , user experience , and more. But no matter what your next career move might be, as you inventory your priorities and assess your options, don’t forget to take stock of another critical element — your transferable skills. 

Regardless of career path, transferable skills are invaluable because you already have them. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what counts as a transferable skill, and how to uncover and articulate them to match the top skills employers look for today.

What Are Transferable Skills and Why Are They Important? 

Transferable skills are soft skills that you can use in any situation or career. Think of strengths like communication, critical thinking, and creativity. If you enter a new environment with those, you have the tools to adapt and succeed, regardless of your technical acumen.

Transferable skills are important because technology changes so quickly that most job functions won’t look the same in five or 10 years — if not sooner. A person who has technical skills but lacks transferable skills like problem-solving and adaptability may struggle to propose new solutions and pick up new skills required for the future of work. While those with transferable skills will be well positioned to adapt and succeed, even if it means learning new tech skills.

Consider artificial intelligence. The rapid rise of AI and other technologies is making some tech skills obsolete, while simultaneously creating new tech skill categories. Rather than making transferable skills irrelevant, all this ebb and flow makes them even more potent. Our most valuable skills are those that are uniquely human — intrinsic qualities that can’t be replicated by bots. 

What’s an Example of a Transferable Skill? 

Here are examples of common transferable skills:

• Adaptability
• Analytical thinking
• Attention to detail
• Communication
• Critical thinking
• Digital literacy
• Relationship-building
• Social influence
• Time management

Technical skills like Python, Excel, or social media competencies aren’t necessarily transferable, even though you can apply them in multiple jobs. Instead, consider broader competencies like problem-solving, analytics, or communication — skills that focus on the human element rather than the tool.

Transferable skills carry over between careers, from roles as different as supply chain coordinator to software developer . General Assembly alum Jaqueline Lemos Elizandro used her transferable skills, including problem-solving, creative thinking, and remote collaboration, to switch from the world of supply chains to a tech career in software development.  

What Are the 3 Top Transferable Job Skills? 

So, which transferable skills do employers look for in candidates today? 

1. Creativity: Thinking Outside the Box

Albert Einstein once said, “Creativity is seeing what others see and thinking what no one else thought.” No matter the industry, you need creativity for innovation and problem-solving. Its importance is obvious for careers like design , but is equally essential for coding, business development, and leadership roles. 

In 2023, the World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report identified creative thinking as the fastest-growing skill and the second most in-demand skill overall. 56% of companies believe creativity is a core skill for workers, and 73% say it’s growing in importance. 

Are you creative? Ask yourself these questions to find out: When did you last propose an unusual solution to a problem? How did you come up with the idea? Creativity is possible in any role and any industry. 

2. Adaptability: Thriving in Change and Discomfort

Adaptability means the ability to adjust to new conditions. Experts have found that 37% of the top 20 skills needed in the job market have changed since 2016. That means the job you’re hired for today may look substantially different in five years — and you’ll need to adapt and reskill to keep up. 

The World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report named “resilience, flexibility, and agility” the third most-valued skill by employers. The findings are particularly true of tech companies and startups. 

“Tech companies often experiment with new approaches and ideas in response to changes. The ability to navigate these turbulent waters quickly is crucial, as it reduces the risk of encountering obstacles,” shared Victoria Potapenko , General Recruiter at Jooble . 

“When it comes to startups, adaptability is paramount. Startups often serve as the starting point for career switchers and juniors. Adaptability enables employees to swiftly adjust their work approaches without sacrificing efficiency.”

Are you adaptable? Ask yourself these questions to find out: How have you responded to substantial change in your industry or job? Have you reskilled or adjusted your workflows to meet the changing environment? 

3. Digital Literacy: Evaluate, Create, Communicate

There are many names for digital literacy: computer literacy, technological literacy, or digital fluency. The American Library Association defines it as “the ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information, requiring both cognitive and technical skills.”

If this sounds broad, it’s because it is. Digital literacy applies to many scenarios used across the workforce. Digital literacy means you can extract meaning from digital information and data. It means you can differentiate between reliable and unreliable sources, understand the interdependence between sources, and navigate social factors online. 

Are you digitally literate? Ask yourself these questions to find out: When did you last source, synthesize, and share digital information? How did you communicate or visualize it using digital technology? 

How Do You Identify Transferable Skills for a Career Change? 

Research from TestGorilla found that more than half of workers can’t confidently identify their transferable skills and aren’t sure how to include them in a resume. To identify which transferable skills are your hidden superpowers, try one of these three activities:

• Read through the skills list above and highlight three to five skills that stand out to you.
• Write down three major accomplishments or projects from your most recent job. Identify which skills you used for each (e.g., communication, adaptability, or analytics). 
• Connect with an expert to narrow down your transferable skills — an outside perspective can identify something you don’t see in yourself. General Assembly’s team has experts to connect with career switchers to conduct a personalized skills audit . 

How Do You Highlight Transferable Skills in a Job Search? 

While recruiters and hiring managers value transferable skills, they can struggle to identify them in the interview process. But with these three steps, you can make their job easier and put yourself at the top of their candidate list. 

1. Add Transferable Skills to Your Resume

Adding your top transferable skills to the skills section of your resume will help you stand out in the early stages of candidate screening. You can also showcase them by weaving them into your summary statement. Here’s an example: Motivated, adaptive sales professional with a history of exceeding targets — an empathetic leader with a track record of fostering collaboration across teams. 

2. Include Key Transferable Skills in Your Cover Letter

“A cover letter is an excellent opportunity to stand out from other candidates,” shared Potopanko. “In it, you can specify your motivation and which transferable skills will help the company achieve its goals.”

Carefully read the job description for the job you’re applying for and extract the transferable skills listed. Emphasize these skills in your cover letter alongside your relevant background information and technical skills.

3. Use the STAR or PARLA Method in Interviews

Once you reach the interview stage, think about how you’ll demonstrate your transferable skills in an interview setting. “In my role as a recruiter, Potapanko shared, “I often work with career switchers and positions that require little to no prior work experience because the company offers fundamental training. In such cases, transferable skills are crucial during the interview process.”

Recruiters often use the STAR or PARLA methods to evaluate competencies in interview candidates. These techniques ask interviewees to demonstrate a skill by sharing a story about how they’ve used that skill in action. These questions usually start with a prompt like, “ Tell me about a time…”

Even though you don’t know the questions in advance, you can effectively prepare for interviews using the STAR method. Think back and write down at least three of your greatest accomplishments from your past job, school, or experience. Then, use the STAR framework to describe each accomplishment:

A specific situation in which you found yourself previously. This could be a problem, project, task, or any other condition that’s the basis for demonstrating a skill.

The mission or goal set before you in that situation. What were the objectives and requirements for completing the task?

The steps you took to address the task, including specific actions and reactions.

The outcomes of your actions and the goals achieved in that situation. It’s important to provide specific numerical or qualitative results to demonstrate how effective your approach was.

If the transferable skill you want to showcase is adaptability, you might share a story about how you had to change a major project mid-stream or reschedule an event you were planning.  

PARLA is a similar framework with the acronym standing for P roblem, A ction, R esult, L earned, A pplication. 

The specific problem you addressed to demonstrate a skill. 

The action you took to solve the problem and demonstrate a skill

The result you achieved by the action you took and the problem you solved.

The learning outcomes of your actions and results in your problem-solving situation. Remember — specific, quantifiable and qualifiable data works best here.

A pplication

How you can apply your demonstrated transferable skill moving forward.

Practice telling your STAR or PARLA stories until you’re comfortable telling them from memory. You’ll be surprised just how adaptable they are to multiple interview questions. 

Ready to make your next career move? You already have the transferable skills within you to land your dream job . You just need a little support and training . 

Contact us for a personalized skills audit to find which tech career could be the right fit for you.

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Browse top resume and cover letter examples by job, industry, format, and experience level. Every sample is created and approved by our team of Certified Professional Resume Writers. Resume categories include: Accounting/Finance, Art/Design, Computer Science, Career Changers, Education, Science, Health & Wellness, Management & Law.

What should I consider when weighing a new career? Career change tips. Ask HR

Johnny C. Taylor Jr. tackles your human resources questions as part of a series for USA TODAY. Taylor is president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management, the world's largest HR professional society and author of "Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval.”

Have a question? Submit it here .

Question: After 13 years in engineering, I’ve discovered a new passion in computer programming. I want to turn this hobby into my next career. However, my mechanical engineering degree is not necessarily relevant to computer programming. Should I invest the time to earn a new degree to get into the field I'm truly passionate about? – Freeman

Answer: After a successful career in engineering, finding a new passion in computer programming is commendable. Transitioning to a new field can be both exciting and challenging. Here are the key steps to consider when deciding if you should invest in earning a new degree to pursue your passion:

◾ Evaluate your skills. Assess the skills and knowledge you already have from your engineering background that might be transferable to computer programming. Analytical skills, problem-solving abilities and experience with technical projects can be invaluable in programming, for example.

◾ Research educational opportunities. Explore various educational programs tailored for career changers. Look for accelerated programs or boot camps offering intensive training over a shorter time frame. These programs often build on students' degrees and experience, potentially reducing the time required to earn a new qualification. Consider part-time, evening, weekend, or online courses that fit into your work schedule. This flexibility can help you transition without leaving your current job immediately.

◾ Assess financial and time investment. Review your financial situation to determine how much you can invest in further education. Look into scholarships, grants and other financial aid options. Your employer might also offer tuition reimbursement for continuing education, even if it’s in a different field. Check with your human resources department to see what opportunities are available.

◾ Practical experience and networking. Gain practical experience by working on personal projects, contributing to open-source projects, or taking on freelance work. This hands-on experience can be instrumental and sometimes even more valuable than formal education. Join programming communities, attend meetups and network with professionals in the field. Networking can open job opportunities and provide insights into what employers are looking for.

◾ Consider certification programs. Find certification programs specific to programming languages or technologies you’re interested in. Certifications can sometimes offer a quicker, more focused path to demonstrating your competence in programming.

◾ Understand the job market. Research the job market for computer programmers in your geographic area or the areas you’re willing to relocate to. Look at job postings to understand what qualifications employers are seeking and what the average salaries are. This can help you gauge whether investing in a new degree or other educational programs is worth it.

◾ Plan for transition. Be prepared for the possibility of starting at a lower level in your new field. This might mean a temporary pay cut, but with a strong background and the corresponding educational credentials, you can work your way up relatively quickly.

By carefully evaluating your situation, researching your options and planning your transition, you can determine whether to invest in a new degree or pursue other educational pathways. Your passion for computer programming, combined with a strategic approach to gaining the necessary skills and credentials, can lead you to a fulfilling new career.

I wish you great success in your transition!

Looking for a new job: Should I tell my current employer? Ask HR

I work as a logistics specialist and interact with various people. Unfortunately, I’m pretty introverted and find much of my work uncomfortable and draining. How can I reconcile my introversion with the interactive nature of my role? – Ping

Balancing your introversion with the interactive nature of your job is definitely possible with some strategic adjustments to how you work and live. Taking an intentional approach to your workday can turn your introversion from a hindrance into a superpower. Here are a few tips to help you reconcile your personality with your job’s demands:

• Assess and adjust your schedule. Evaluate your calendar and see if you can replace some meetings with emails. While phone calls and face-to-face meetings are essential for relationship-building, some interactions are more efficiently addressed via written communication. Even eliminating one meeting per week can make a difference. Try to schedule 15-minute breaks between meetings to give yourself time to decompress and prepare for the next interaction. If you don’t control your schedule, discuss this preference with your manager. Emphasize how these breaks will help you perform better by avoiding burnout and increasing productivity.
• Communicate your intentions. Have a respectful conversation with your manager about your need for more focused, uninterrupted work time. Suggest specific changes, such as batching administrative tasks together or setting aside certain hours for focused work. Frame these suggestions in terms of how they will help you be more effective in your role.
• Create personal space. Use physical or visual cues to signal when you need uninterrupted work time. If you have a private office, close the door. If you work in an open space, use earbuds to indicate you’re focusing on work. If possible, establish certain hours of the day as “quiet hours,” where you can concentrate on individual tasks without interruptions.
• Recharge during breaks. Use your lunch break as a time to recharge. Go for a walk, read a book, or listen to music – anything that helps you unwind and recharge. Throughout the day, take short breaks to step away from your desk. Even a five-minute walk or a few moments of deep breathing can help you reset.
• Prioritize self-care. Dedicate time after work to activities that help you relax and recharge. Whether reading, exercising, or spending quiet time alone, ensure you have downtime to recover from the day's interactions. Be mindful not to overcommit yourself socially after work. Allow yourself plenty of downtime to recharge.
• Leverage your strengths. Recognize how your introversion can be a strength. Introverts are often good listeners and thoughtful communicators, qualities that can be highly valuable in your role. Use these strengths to build deeper, more meaningful connections with colleagues and clients.

Ultimately, setting boundaries, communicating your needs and prioritizing self-care can help create a work environment that respects your introversion while accommodating the interactive demands of your job and allowing you to thrive personally and professionally.

Job hunting: How do I approach a former boss or co-worker for a job reference? Ask HR