How can you make your career change story stand out?

1 Identify your core message

Before you start writing your resume, cover letter, or LinkedIn profile, you need to have a clear idea of what your career change story is. What are the main reasons why you decided to switch careers? What are the skills and qualities that you have developed or transferred from your previous roles? How do they relate to your target industry or position? What are the benefits or outcomes that you can deliver to your potential employer? Your core message should be concise, consistent, and relevant to your career goals.

2 Use the STAR method

One of the most effective ways to structure your career change story is to use the STAR method . This stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. It helps you describe a specific example of how you applied your skills or solved a problem in a previous or current role. You can use the STAR method to highlight your achievements, challenges, or learnings in your resume bullet points, cover letter paragraphs, or interview answers. The STAR method helps you demonstrate your impact, skills, and fit for the new role.

3 Tailor your story to the audience

Your career change story is not one-size-fits-all. You need to tailor it to the specific needs, expectations, and values of your target employer. You can do this by researching the company, the industry, and the job description. Find out what are the main problems, goals, or priorities that they have. Then, align your story with how you can help them address those issues or achieve those objectives. Use keywords, phrases, or examples that match their language and culture. Show them that you understand their pain points and opportunities, and that you have the passion and potential to contribute to their success.

4 Showcase your learning and growth

Another way to make your career change story stand out is to showcase your learning and growth. Changing careers often requires acquiring new knowledge, skills, or credentials. You can highlight how you have invested in your professional development, such as taking courses, attending workshops, reading books, or joining networks. You can also share how you have applied or practiced what you have learned, such as working on projects, volunteering, or freelancing. Showing your learning and growth demonstrates your commitment, curiosity, and adaptability to the new career.

5 Be authentic and confident

Finally, the most important tip to make your career change story stand out is to be authentic and confident. Don't try to pretend that you have all the answers or experience that you don't have. Instead, focus on your strengths, value, and potential. Be honest about your motivations, challenges, and aspirations. Be confident about your abilities, achievements, and goals. Be authentic and confident about your career change story, and you will be more likely to connect with and impress your potential employer.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?