A career transition can feel like stepping into the unknown. Yet, career pivots have become more common — especially following the pandemic. The growing interest in exploring new career paths is primarily the result of more people reevaluating their values and priorities. In fact, a survey conducted by iHire revealed that 66% of respondents considered changing career paths in the past year. Yet, career transitions can be challenging. In the same study, the biggest roadblocks to changing careers included financial risks, a lack of clarity and not knowing how to write a career change résumé, among others.
Crafting a compelling résumé is critical to a successful career change. The best format will effectively show future employers why you want to pivot and what makes you the best candidate. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, a hybrid (also known as combination) résumé format lets you combine the best parts of a functional and chronological résumé. While a hybrid format highlights your skills at the top, it also allows you to include a work summary that is easily skimmed.
Once you identify your career goal, positioning yourself as a strong candidate is the next step. If you’re concerned about transitioning into a new field, these tips will help you create a résumé that gets you noticed.
Your career transition résumé should start with a personal statement. This is a short paragraph explaining why you want to make a career change, how your previous experience is transferable and why you are the best person for the role. Think of this section as being similar to an elevator pitch. It’s a brief way to explain your credentials and motivation while establishing a connection with the reader.
Here’s an example:
Excellence-driven finance professional with 15+ years of experience looking to transfer my quantitative and problem-solving skills to the accounting industry. Eager to make an immediate impact by using my disciplined approach to meet the challenges facing Company XYZ’s clients.
The skills section is found below the summary paragraph. Keep in mind that AI is being used to match the language in your CV to the language in the job description. So, be sure to weave those keywords into your résumé. Focus on the transferable skills that are relevant to the new role. Most likely, they will be soft skills like leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving. If there are technical skills you possess that are relevant to the position, you’ll want to include them here as well, just as an experienced accountants in Chicago would highlight their expertise in financial analysis and tax planning. Demonstrating these skills not only showcases your qualifications but also sets you apart as a well-rounded candidate who can handle complex and dynamic challenges effectively. Find high-paying tax accounting jobs at recruitment sites.
This is an example of a skills section:
If you have space, you could also expand on each skill by using examples:
Problem-solving
Below the skills section, highlight your work history. Try to incorporate only the professional experiences that are truly relevant to the new role. Also, don’t simply list your day-to-day tasks. Instead, emphasize quantifiable achievements—preferably in bullet point format. By including compelling metrics, you show a future employer that you will add immediate value to their organization. Finally, don’t forget to explain any career breaks or employment gaps. By being open and honest, you will be seen as a trusted professional.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Marketing Manager, Company XYZ, January 2022-Present
If you have hands-on experience, include details regarding any personal or professional projects. Some examples include a side gig, a freelance project or an assignment from a class you attended. Include a brief description, what you did and the outcome or results. Then, conclude with a summary of the skills that you used.
PERSONAL PROJECTS
MyWebsite.com, July 1018-present
If you’ve obtained certifications or taken classes specific to your new career, showcase them here. This section is essential if you don't have direct experience in the field. By highlighting training or relevant coursework, it shows employers you’ve taken steps to educate yourself.
EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
Leadership Principles Certificate, Harvard Business School Online, March 2024
Bachelor of Science in Marketing, University of Illinois, May 2003
While managing a career transition is challenging, a powerful résumé can help you stand out from your peers. On average, recruiters take approximately seven seconds or less to scan a résumé. By putting in the work, you’ll be able to prove your value and take that next big step with confidence.
