There are a variety of reasons why you would choose to change careers. Whatever the cause, convincing Hiring Managers or recruiters that you’re the best candidate for a potential role – even though your past experience in the field is small – would be critical to your success.
We’ve already talked about how to write the right career change resume, as well as how to prepare an Australian cover letter, but your career change cover letter will help you translate some crucial transferrable skills.
Here’s a cover letter sample created especially for those looking for a career change.
Opening statement
Write a straightforward and simple opening statement. Describe the role you’re applying for and the company name.
Mention your previous experience and express your confidence that your skills are transferrable to the new role.
Example:
“This is to express my interest in the Client Engagement Officer role at ABC Company. Although I have spent most of my career in public accounting firms, I am confident that my achievements, competencies and skills can translate to this role and add exceptional value to ABC Company’s HR Team.”
Second paragraph – your reason why making a career change
It’s time to explain why you’re considering a career transition.
You want to convey to potential employers why you believe the role is the ideal job and perfect change for you.
Keep your reasons as short as possible. If the recruiter sees that your decision was well-considered, they would be far more likely to believe you while evaluating the rest of your submission.
Example:
“I started to consider this career change after receiving consistently positive feedback from my Manager in the past three years for my ability to sustain long-term client relationships. While I cannot dismiss what I have learned and accomplished as an Accountant, I have become more aware that a huge chunk of my responsibilities revolves around interacting with clients from all levels. I have always worked to build a positive relationship with customers and proactively meet their needs.”
Third paragraph – your suitability for the role
After describing your reasons for a career change, use concrete examples to emphasise what you can do for your potential employers.
Highlight the transferrable skills you’ve built in your previous roles, and try to apply them to the position you’re applying for.
Although not all skills will be transferable, you’ll be surprised how many of the same skills can still be applied in a variety of positions. Some examples include problem-solving, communications, relationship-building and adaptability.
If you’re having trouble coming up with ideas, the job description should be able to point you in the right direction. Choose up to 3 key skills from the job description and communicate how your abilities connect to each one.
Example:
“Here is what caught my attention about the role and how my experience could benefit ABC Company…
Capacity to deliver high-quality services: My work as a Public Accountant entails liaising with small- and medium-sized companies to provide information on a range of accounting services available, assisting them to identify the solutions relevant to their needs. As a trusted client adviser, I engage with clients on a 1-1 basis to uncover their requirements, ensuring that the company provides them with services that would add value to their business.
Highly developed written skills: Throughout my previous positions, I have prepared clear, logical and well-structured correspondence and reports, frequently tailoring my message to the needs of my audience.
Demonstrated ability to contribute actively as part of a team: While I am accountable for the accurate completion of my work within accounting timeframes and quality requirements, I work collaboratively with other team members, including assisting in other work areas during busy periods. I am equally responsive to changes and can make effective decisions within my area of responsibility, understanding when it is appropriate to escalate complex issues as needed.”
Closing statement
Thank the employer for their time in considering your application. Restate your interest in the role as well.
Example:
“I am excited about contributing to ABC Company’s objective of delivering consistent and innovative services to its clients. Thank you for your time in reviewing my application. I look forward to meeting with you to discuss my application further.
Yours sincerely,
John Doe”
In Summary
Changing jobs can be difficult. However, career change cover letters will go a long way towards helping you articulate how your talents can fit into a new industry or position.
Getting an interview within a new job sector all comes down to persuading Recruiters and Hiring Manager that your qualifications and expertise are transferrable. Since it’s impossible to do this with only your resume, you should always use a cover letter in your application.
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