How to Write a Resume for a Career Change

Whatever reason you have for changing your career path, it can be a difficult and daunting task. When you’re applying for a job you have little experience in due to a career shift, you have to make sure that your resume properly highlights and addresses your skills and not your lack of experience. Here are some tips from career consulting professionals who know how to best position your resume for a career change.

Tips from Career Consulting Professionals

Professional resume services specialize in helping you position your resume best for the job in which you are applying for. Here are some of the tips they suggest you follow:

• Research the Position. When you find a job you’re interested in you should make sure to take the time to read the job ad thoroughly. You can also do research online to find out what people with that job title typically do. If you’re still lacking the information you need, you could reach out to the human resources department and ask them for more information about the position. This will help you tailor your resume to meet the company’s requirements.
• Compare and Contrast. When you understand the requirements of the job and the qualifications desired in an applicant, examine your resume to determine what skills your current and prospective jobs have in common. These are the skills you want to make sure you highlight on your resume. All irrelevant skills should be left off of your final resume.
• Play up Your Strengths. Make sure that your resume mentions all of the skills you have that relate to the position you are applying for. This includes your education, internships, volunteer work, hobbies and any other experience that relates to the job.
• Reiterate Your Qualifications in Your Cover Letter. No matter what job you are applying for, you should always include a cover letter. This lets employers know why you are qualified for the job. You should briefly introduce yourself and let the reader know why you are interested in the position. Next, talk about your specific qualifications as they relate to the job and indicate your willingness to learn.

When you are seeking a career change and need to address that in your resume, it’s best to make sure you custom tailor your resume to each job you apply for. Make sure you communicate the skills you have as they relate to the job you are applying for.