To you, changing careers feels like a huge deal. You’re soul searching, upskilling, and braving new industries. But in the grand scheme of the workforce, changing careers is relatively common. Most people will explore at least more than one career in their lifetime, and more than 70 percent of women say they want to change careers. You’re in good company.
Yet standing out as a career changer takes tact. You need to understand your transferable skills and your soft skills—those traits like communication, time management, organization, and adaptability that make every job run more smoothly. And you need to know how to pitch all of it to an employer that isn’t necessarily looking for someone from your previous field.
Sound daunting? Here’s something to make the task a whole lot easier: For our Ask an Employer series, we asked six hiring experts to share their best advice for career changers during the job search. Read their best advice below.
How should career changers frame their skill set in applications and interviews?
1. Hone your skills and your network
“Highlight why your experience would be valuable for the position you are applying to and how your unique skills match what they are searching for. Explain clearly to the interviewer why you are interested in making a career change and why you are interested in the role. It is also helpful to take training courses for the profession you are trying to get into. Building your network of women that are currently in the profession is very beneficial as well. Make connections through networking events, courses, or family and friends.” —Alex Stock, Recruiter, Ping Identity
2. Embrace your unique path
“Women changing careers bring a unique perspective and diverse background to the role. Highlight how your different experiences and viewpoints can bring value to the organization and contribute to a diverse and inclusive workplace culture. In your cover letter, showcase your transferable skills, relevant experiences, and excitement for the new career path! During the interview, ask thoughtful questions that demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and the role. Overall, approach the career change with confidence and a positive attitude.” —Dayna Jesus, Talent Acquisition Recruitment Partner, KinderCare Learning Companies
3. Align your application to the position
“While we get many, many applications for our positions, the ones that stand out are applications that highlight specific skills and experiences as they relate to the position for which the person is applying. Generic applications and resumes might be overlooked if recruiters or hiring managers don't see the skills and experiences needed for the role!” —Vicky Gibson, Head of Talent Acquisition, Sunbelt Rentals
4. Become fluent in your chosen industry’s language
“When transitioning careers, articulate your transferable skills using industry-specific terms. Analyze the job description to match the required skills and demonstrate how your current abilities align with the new role's objectives. Utilize available tools to map out your skillset effectively. Speaking in industry language during interviews showcases your readiness and ability to apply your skills in the new career path, impressing interviewers.” —Charlie Alfarah, Associate Director, DE&I, Mediaocean
5. Ask good questions
“In an interview, when it comes time for the interviewee to ask questions, I find most of the time the person doesn't have any. Do your homework and ask questions that are relevant to the position you are applying for. A great question to ask (you'll have to be feeling bold) is, 'Do you have any concerns about our interview that might prevent you from moving me on to the next phase in the hiring process?' This will show you are assertive, open to feedback, and will give you a chance to possibly better answer a question.” —Amanda McBroom, Regional Manager, Mill Creek Residential Trust
6. Be confident
“Don’t be afraid to boldly and transparently tell your story including the reasons why you are switching careers and what you are hoping to achieve in the future. Stay positive, be honest, and avoid apologizing, making excuses, or sounding defensive. Project confidence in yourself and your choices. Be prepared to talk about what motivates you, the challenges you’ve faced, and what you have learned along the way that will help you on this new path. It’s your story, your choices, and your future—own it loud and proud girl!” —Amanda Gissel, Director People Services, Bandwidth
