cover letter email career change

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Career Planning
• Finding a Job
• Cover Letters

Sample Career Change Cover Letter and Writing Tips

• Writing a Career Change Cover Letter

Career Change Cover Letter Sample

How to send an email cover letter.

• Refocus Your Resume to Match

The Balance / Chelsea Damraksa

Are you considering a career change? If you are looking for a position in a different industry or career field, your cover letter or  letter of intent  is an important factor in the likelihood of your getting the job.

Since your resume may not contain the relevant experience that hiring managers are looking for, it's important to use your cover letter as an opportunity to demonstrate why you are a good fit despite lacking that specific employment history.

A well-written and strong cover letter will convince the reader that your work experience is a strength rather than a weakness.

Before you start writing, though, be sure you're clear on your goals for transitioning careers and that you're  positioned for a successful career change job search .

Tips for Writing a Career Change Cover Letter

Any good cover letter explains why you are qualified for the specific job. However, a cover letter written during a  career change  needs to go beyond that.

Be sure to thoroughly  research the company  before writing your cover letter so you can convince the employer that you understand the company and can demonstrate why you want to be a part of it.

You must touch on three important points. This will help you rise above candidates who have more direct experience in the industry. You don’t necessarily have to cover all of these topics in order or in distinct paragraphs. The aim is to make sure you communicate these points somewhere in your letter.

1. Emphasize Your Transferable Skills

Most importantly, focus on the  transferable skills  you have that you can use in the new position rather than on the skills you have that are only related to your current role. Analyze the job description for the position you’re applying to, and look at the skills that the position calls for.

Choose the  ones that best match your own skills or experience . Then, if possible, use specific anecdotes from your work or academic history to illustrate some of these strengths in action. 

2. Highlight Your Superior Performance in Previous Positions

Other applicants may have the relevant experience, but if their experience is mediocre and cannot be backed up by strong references or tangible achievements, you may actually be a more desirable candidate for the job than they are.

In your letter, do your best to explain how you succeeded in previous roles, and connect that to a summary of how you would also add value in this new position.

Make sure your references will corroborate your statements.

3. Express Your Passion for the Company

Mention your passion for the company. This is another way to stand out from qualified candidates. Employers may be more interested in someone who is especially excited about their organization and the job opportunity than they are in someone who just wants a job and doesn’t care about much beyond that. In your cover letter, make it clear that you’re familiar with the organization and enthusiastic about the opportunity to be a part of it.

Read the sample cover letter below, which you can use as a framework for writing your own career change cover letter. However, be sure to edit the sample to fit your personal experiences and the job for which you are applying.

Download the career change cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online).

Sample Career Change Cover Letter (Text Version)

William Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 111-111-1111 william.applicant@email.com

July 21, 2020

Michael Lee Director XYZ Company 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321 

Dear Ms. Lee:

This letter is to express my special interest in discussing the Senior Customer Service Manager position posted on the XYZ Company web site. The opportunity presented in this listing is very appealing, and I believe that my experience and education will make me a competitive candidate for this role.

Although I have been working primarily as an Operations Manager, in this capacity I have interfaced frequently with customers, in addition to vendors and staff. This has instilled multi-dimensional communication skills and an ability to recognize, act upon, and fulfill customer wishes and needs in order to ensure their continued, and positive, relationship with the business.

In fact, in my most recent job as Operations Manager for ABC Company, I received an ‘Excellence in Customer Service’ recognition due to my ability to coordinate complex logistics in order to keep customers happy even when issues arose that were beyond the control of the organization. Again, this involved not only managing operations but also communicating directly with customers. As a result, I believe my combined ability to successfully manage operations while also effectively interfacing with customers makes me a prime candidate for this role.

The key strengths that I possess for success in this position include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Provide exceptional contributions to customer service for all customers. 
• Strive for continued excellence.
• Strong communication skills.
• Eager to learn new things.

You will find me to be well-spoken, energetic, confident, and personable, the type of person on whom your customers will rely. I also have a wide breadth of experience of the type that will allow you the versatility to place me in a number of contexts with confidence that the level of excellence you expect will be met. Please see my resume for additional information on my experience.

I hope that you'll find my experience and interests intriguing enough to warrant a face-to-face meeting, as I am confident that I could provide value to you and your customers as a member of your team. I am very excited about this opportunity to work for XYZ Company. I connect with your mission to “deliver the ‘five star’ factor” to both your staff and your customers. This tenet is reflected in my own professional and personal values, and I believe this alignment strongly supports my candidacy for this role.

I can be reached anytime via my cell phone, 555-555-5555. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you about this employment opportunity.

William Applicant (signature hard copy letter)

William Applicant

If you're sending your  cover letter via email,  list your name and the job title in the subject line of the  email message . Include your contact information in your email signature, but don't list the employer's contact information. Simply start your email message with the salutation.

Refocus Your Resume to Reflect Your New Goals

When you're seeking a career change, it's important to refocus your resume to reflect your new goals. That way, your resume and cover letter will both show that you're well qualified for a change in roles. Here are six tips for  writing a powerful career change resume  that will help you get started.

Get Ready to Interview

Be prepared, as well, to discuss in job interviews why you're transitioning and what  skills you will bring to prospective employers . It's important to have a comprehensive and professional pitch that will impress the employer and convince them that you're a strong candidate for the job.

How it works

Transform your enterprise with the scalable mindsets, skills, & behavior change that drive performance.

Explore how BetterUp connects to your core business systems.

We pair AI with the latest in human-centered coaching to drive powerful, lasting learning and behavior change.

Build leaders that accelerate team performance and engagement.

Unlock performance potential at scale with AI-powered curated growth journeys.

Build resilience, well-being and agility to drive performance across your entire enterprise.

Transform your business, starting with your sales leaders.

Unlock business impact from the top with executive coaching.

Foster a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Accelerate the performance and potential of your agencies and employees.

See how innovative organizations use BetterUp to build a thriving workforce.

Discover how BetterUp measurably impacts key business outcomes for organizations like yours.

A demo is the first step to transforming your business. Meet with us to develop a plan for attaining your goals.

• What is coaching?

Learn how 1:1 coaching works, who its for, and if it's right for you.

Accelerate your personal and professional growth with the expert guidance of a BetterUp Coach.

Types of Coaching

Navigate career transitions, accelerate your professional growth, and achieve your career goals with expert coaching.

Enhance your communication skills for better personal and professional relationships, with tailored coaching that focuses on your needs.

Find balance, resilience, and well-being in all areas of your life with holistic coaching designed to empower you.

Discover your perfect match : Take our 5-minute assessment and let us pair you with one of our top Coaches tailored just for you.

Best practices, research, and tools to fuel individual and business growth.

View on-demand BetterUp events and learn about upcoming live discussions.

The latest insights and ideas for building a high-performing workplace.

• BetterUp Briefing

The online magazine that helps you understand tomorrow's workforce trends, today.

Innovative research featured in peer-reviewed journals, press, and more.

Founded in 2022 to deepen the understanding of the intersection of well-being, purpose, and performance

We're on a mission to help everyone live with clarity, purpose, and passion.

Join us and create impactful change.

Read the buzz about BetterUp.

Meet the leadership that's passionate about empowering your workforce.

For Business

For Individuals

How to write an impactful cover letter for a career change

Understand Yourself Better:

Big 5 Personality Test

Jump to section

How to write a cover letter for a career change

Career change cover letter examples.

8 tips to write a successful career change cover letter

Learning to navigate career changes

As a job seeker, your primary objective is to stand out from every other candidate — and writing a strong cover letter is a great way to do this.

But if you’re trying to change careers, it might seem more complicated. Crafting a compelling letter for a career change needs to put your best foot forward while explaining how your experience and transferable skills make you the best fit. 

Luckily, like any application, cover letters give you a unique opportunity to make a strong first impression on a prospective employer. They’re your opportunity to spin a perceived drawback into a valuable asset, showing hiring managers your unique perspective and ability to make a change.

Let’s start with the basics. Like any other professional communication, every word of your career change cover letter counts. Your relevant skill set, work experience, and communication style let a recruiter, hiring manager, or potential supervisor know what it’ll be like to work with you. 

Here’s how to use your cover letter to make an impact: 

1. Start with a powerful introduction

The first few lines of your cover letter set the tone and pique your reader's interest (or spur disinterest). Skip generic introductions and aim for an opening line that quickly encapsulates the value you can bring to the new job. It can also reflect your unique personality, within reason.

Don’t be shy about identifying yourself as a career changer. It’s an opportunity to showcase important soft skills — such as courage, intellectual curiosity , and a resilient mindset — and connect relevant experiences with valuable transferable skills . With the right framing, it may be the key to standing out as an interesting candidate.

Here’s an example: “As a seasoned journalist, I’m eager to transition into public relations. I've spent the last 20 years sharpening my critical-thinking, research, and copywriting skills, which will serve me well in this new role.”

2. Develop your full character

Your opening paragraph should include your previous role and new career ambition. Next, it’s time to offer a glimpse of your professional drive and explain in more detail what you bring to a career switch, especially if you’ve been upskilling, taking classes, or attending trainings. This is an opportunity to blend your established reputation with your new career goals. If you’re making the change to pursue your passion or do more meaningful work, putting that fact on diisplay creates a fuller image of your personal values , mission, and vision for the future. 

For example: “I currently manage a team of 50 sales representatives in the constantly evolving healthcare sector. The most fascinating and fulfilling part of my job has always been developing a deep understanding of my client’s needs. Acting as a bridge to better service, consulting with them about updating their tools and training to focus on providing excellent treatment to their patients is so rewarding. I’m excited by the prospect of leveraging my social skills and years of experience working directly with healthcare providers to move into software development for the healthcare sector.” 

3. Show some emotion

Carefully placed action verbs and feelings help make your experience jump off the page. Potential employers aren’t just looking for a list of key skills — they want to imagine the person behind them. Choose language that conveys enthusiasm, drive, and work motivation , like “I’ve always been passionate about problem-solving and teamwork” or “I immediately connected with your company’s vision and commitment to sustainability.” 

4. Describe your past performance

Your successes in previous roles are the best predictor of the meaningful work you’ll accomplish in the next one — even if you’re moving to a new industry. Focus on accomplishments that demonstrate flexibility and a learning mindset to help the hiring manager envision a successful transition. You need to make the most out of your letter of interest , portfolio , and resume, so put the highlights on your resume and tell the story in your cover letter. 

For instance: “I oversaw a project to automate sales tracking systems, working with our tech team to evaluate the best strategies for the sales department. The project improved efficiency by 25% and decreased overhead costs by 15%.” 

Metrics quantify the value of your growth mindset and show off important skills like team collaboration , project management , and adaptability. 

5. Align your skills with the job description

Even if you’re at the height of your career, a hiring manager needs to know you can bridge the gap between your current role and the new position. Pay careful attention to the soft and hard skills they mention in the job posting and work them into your career transition cover letter. Don’t embellish for the sake of standing out, but do highlight the skills you can back up with valuable, direct experience. 

6. Write a memorable closing

Your closing is your opportunity to reiterate your excitement about the job opening. Adjectives like “eager,” “excited,” and “thrilled” demonstrate you’re ready to hit the ground running. 

Additionally, your cover letter for switching careers should invite further dialogue with a call to action. For example: “I’m eager to learn more about the role and look forward to sharing how I can bring my unique perspective and years of experience in [industry] to your organization.” 

Before digging into your resume or cover letter, a potential employer may peruse your job application or LinkedIn profile to understand your value as a candidate. Your cover letter is your first opportunity to turn a list of skills and experiences into a well-rounded picture of your character. 

The best cover letters balance highlighting your unique personality and perspective with proving you have what it takes to fill the job description. While your letter should represent you, you don’t have to start from scratch. Instead, build your own using a basic structure and templates for inspiration. You can also ask ChatGPT to generate a first draft for you with strategic prompts .

Here’s a general career change cover letter sample to consider:

Dear [hiring manager’s name], 

Thank you for considering my application for [ prospective job title] at [company name]. 

I’ve spent the last [years of experience] learning the ins and outs of [current industry], where I currently work as a [most recent job title]. I gravitated toward [industry] because of my passion for [the factors that pushed you to your current career]. The most fulfilling part of my career has been [transferable skills relevant to the new job posting]. I’ve built my expertise around [relevant skills], which were instrumental in accomplishing [a notable achievement or project]. 

I’m excited to transition into a new career chapter and follow my calling in [new field]. Reading about your company, I immediately connected with [core value]. I’m thrilled by the prospect of contributing [your vision or skills] and am eager to apply my unique perspective as a [current job title] in a new context. 

Attached is my resume. I’m eager to learn more about the company and how my background aligns with your needs.

I look forward to the opportunity to continue the conversation. 

Sincerely, 

[Your name]

When changing careers, you may feel worried about potential red flags in your resume, like career gaps or lack of direct experience . While your technical abilities are important, many recruiters and hiring managers prioritize soft skills , like leadership, critical thinking, and communication. Here’s a cover letter that balances proven soft skills and highlights your excitement to fill the gaps: 

Thank you for the opportunity to apply for [prospective job title] at [company name]. While I’ve developed my career in [industry], my enthusiasm for [relevant interest] combined with my proven [relevant transferable skills] has prepared me for this career path. 

Over the last [years of experience], I’ve cultivated a solid foundation in [relevant skills], which mirror the dynamic demands of [new industry]. 

I’m attracted to [new industry] because of [your interest or inspiration to switch to a new field]. The [specific aspect of your new field] that [company name] embodies deeply resonates with my personal values and professional aspirations. I’ve spent the last [months or years] learning [valuable technical skills or industry knowledge] through [examples of learning experiences, such as a class, seminar, or networking opportunity]. 

Attached is my resume, which underscores my transferable skills and [relevant coursework or certifications]. 

I’m confident that my adaptability, dedication to quality work, and passion for learning position me to hit the ground running and become a strong asset to your team. I look forward to discussing how my excitement and skill set align with your objectives. 

8 tips to write a successful career change cover letter 

Now that you have some cover letter examples for changing careers, let’s get into the fine print. Here are eight tips to help your career change cover letter lead to an interview: 

• Address the letter to the right person: General salutations — like “Dear hiring manager” — may give the impression you’re copying and pasting the same cover letter across several job postings. Likewise, it signals to the reader that you lacked the initiative and dedication to find out more about the role and the hiring team beyond what’s in a brief job posting. Take the time to learn the hiring manager's name and use it to kick off communications. 
• Keep things short: The objective of your cover letter is to spark a hiring manager’s interest and encourage them to read your resume . Keep your cover letter to a few well-curated paragraphs that balance your unique value with the requisites for the job role. 
• Research, research, research: The company’s website, social media, and other branded materials can provide insight into the organization’s mission and core values. Aligning your vision with the company’s is a great way to capture a hiring manager’s attention and let them know you fit the company culture .
• Explain your reasons for changing careers: The courage to take a chance on yourself and switch careers speaks volumes about your character. It’s nothing to shy away from. Highlight the reasons you decided to make the difficult career decision —  your resilience, fortitude, and decisiveness can provide a competitive advantage over more traditional candidates. 
• Mention new skills: Highlight how you’ve learned about your new industry, acquired technical skills, and prepared for the career switch. Whether it’s a one-day seminar or several months with a career coach , your drive for personal and professional development helps make your case for a smooth transition into a new industry. 
• Source references: Having a list of professional references and their contact information ready to send to a hiring manager is always a good idea. Carefully choose colleagues who can speak to your passion for your new industry and ability to adapt to change.
• Align all your communications: Consistency and clarity are important to hiring managers. When your LinkedIn profile, letter of intent , and resume have mismatched skills and work experience, the person reading them may pass you over for a candidate with a profile that’s easier to understand and imagine in the role. Double-check that all your information is up-to-date and consistent across all platforms and lines of communication. 
• Proofread : An enthralling story about your decision to dive into a new field can be thwarted by a misspelled word or poorly placed comma. Spelling and grammar errors can jeopardize your chances of an interview — hiring managers may worry that a lack of attention to detail could show up in more important areas of your work performance. If you’re not a natural copy editor, double-check your work with a proofreading app like Grammarly.

Learning to navigate career changes 

A career change is a big life decision , no matter where you are in your professional journey. After you’ve settled into your niche, shaking things up at 30, changing careers at 40 or following a new calling in your 50s might feel increasingly overwhelming. 

But it’s never too late to embrace change. Your professional life occupies a big part of your time, energy, and personal identity. You deserve to feel fulfilled — even if that means choosing a road less traveled. Carefully crafting a cover letter for a career change is an effective way to capture a hiring manager's attention from the jump and move one step closer to an exciting new opportunity. 

Elizabeth Perry

Content Marketing Manager, ACC

What is gig work and does it make the dream work?

How to answer 8 phone interview questions to ace your interview, why is there a labor shortage 5 ways it could impact you, use severance package negotiation to ask for the compensation you deserve, how to quit a part-time job: 5 tips to leave on good terms, understanding what commission pay is and how it affects a salary, is personal time off paid how to navigate employer pto plans, how to introduce yourself in an interview: examples & tips, go mom 10 best work-from-home jobs for moms, similar articles, 3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention, how to ask for a letter of recommendation (with examples), how to write a great cover letter in 2024: tips and structure, a guide on how to pick a new career, what is a letter of intent examples on how to write one, wondering how to change careers 12 steps to switch it up, tips and tricks for writing a letter of interest (with examples), perfect is the enemy of the good: 4 ways to thrive in ambiguity, chatgpt cover letters: how to use this tool the right way, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

3100 E 5th Street, Suite 350 Austin, TX 78702

• Platform Overview
• Integrations
• Powered by AI
• BetterUp Lead
• BetterUp Manage™
• BetterUp Care™
• Sales Performance
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Case Studies
• Why BetterUp?
• About Coaching
• Find your Coach
• Career Coaching
• Communication Coaching
• Life Coaching
• News and Press
• Leadership Team
• Become a BetterUp Coach
• BetterUp Labs
• Center for Purpose & Performance
• Leadership Training
• Business Coaching
• Contact Support
• Contact Sales
• Privacy Policy
• Acceptable Use Policy
• Trust & Security
• Cookie Preferences

How To Write the Best Career Change Cover Letter

Switching careers can feel like embarking on a journey into uncharted territory — this is particularly true in the tech industry , where a career change often means navigating an entirely different set of digital tools, work processes, responsibilities, and skills. 

You may have prepared yourself for the challenges ahead, furthered your education, and even identified job postings you believe to be a great fit. But without an excellent career change cover letter, your new professional journey could be stalled before it even begins!

Hiring managers only look at resumes for seven seconds before deciding whether to proceed with the application. So, your cover letter has to make an immediate and lasting impression. 

To help you land the job you’ve been dreaming of, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on career change cover letters.

Here are the topics we’ll explore —feel free to skip around to the sections that interest you most:

• What makes it a career change cover letter?
• How to write a career change cover letter in 8 steps

Career change cover letter example: UX design

• Career change cover letter example: Frontend development
• Key takeaways

1. What makes it a career change cover letter?

Before we look at the format and structure of the cover letter, let’s clarify something: it may seem obvious, but what distinguishes traditional cover letters from those written by career changers?

The key difference lies in the way you present yourself and the story you tell. A career change cover letter must demonstrate three main things:

• Your understanding of the job and industry,
• your existing skills and experience, and
• how those can be applied to the new position.

This can be done in several ways, but the most effective cover letters strike a balance between emphasizing transferable skills , demonstrating adaptability, and highlighting your motivation for the career transition. 

Unlike traditional cover letters, they can also address potential concerns about your experience, showcasing your ability to transcend the boundaries of one professional field and excel in another.

2. How to write a career change cover letter in 8 steps

Writing winning cover letters is an art that requires practice, and career-change-specific cover letters are even trickier to tackle. But thankfully, you can follow a few best practices to create a compelling document that will make it easier for potential employers to imagine you in the new role.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of writing an effective cover letter for your career switch, from the opening line to the closing paragraph. So, grab a pen or open up your favorite word processor and write that first draft using the following tips:

1. Address the right person

To avoid using the impersonal salutation, “Dear hiring manager,” take the time to research who will be reading your cover letter. 

If the job ad doesn’t include a name, try searching for the company’s website or LinkedIn page and go to the employees’ section to track down the right person and job title. For example, if you’re applying for a UX designer role , search for “Director of UX Design,” “Creative Director,” or similar.

2. Introduce yourself with a hook

Begin your cover letter with an engaging opening that captures the reader’s attention. 

This could be a statement of your intent, a specific project you’ve recently completed, or a personal connection to the industry that demonstrates your passion and motivation for the career switch. This will set you apart from other candidates and create a memorable first impression.

3. Explain why you’re changing careers

To address your career change head-on, provide a clear rationale for the shift by sharing your personal career change story. For example, you could highlight your enthusiasm for the new field, noting what attracted you to it and any relevant experiences or interests supporting your decision. 

Then, use the power of personal branding to infuse the letter with your unique voice, personality, and vision, focusing on the value you can bring to the new sector. This transparency shows employers you’ve thoughtfully considered the move.

4. Demonstrate understanding of the company

Demonstrate your genuine interest in the organization by showing that you’ve thoroughly researched the company. You can achieve this by discussing its mission statement, values, and recent accomplishments. 

Align your skills, background, and career goals with the company’s objectives to showcase your potential fit within its corporate culture. Doing so will convey your enthusiasm for the role and the organization, increasing your chances of standing out as a suitable candidate.

5. Detail why you’re a great match

A personalized cover letter should also explain why you’re a strong candidate for the position in question. This means identifying the unique qualities that set you apart from other candidates, whether that’s your adaptability, problem-solving abilities, or valuable soft skills that can be applied across various industries. 

Use real-world examples to demonstrate how your skills and past experiences align with the job requirements, and mention how these traits can benefit the company in the long run.

6. Showcase transferable skills

One of the key objectives of your career change cover letter is to demonstrate your value to potential employers in your new field. To do this effectively, pinpoint the skills you’ve acquired in your previous career that are transferable to the new role. 

Use specific examples to illustrate how you’ve applied these skills in different contexts and how they are relevant to your new position. By showcasing your relevant skills and experience, you can effectively demonstrate to employers that you have what it takes to excel in your new career path.

7. Mention relevant professional development

List any skills and knowledge you’ve gained through relevant courses, certifications, or training to showcase your commitment to learning and willingness to invest in your career transition. 

This will set you apart from other aspiring career changers, prove your enthusiasm for the role and help paint a picture of what you can bring to the new position. Doing due diligence upfront will make it easier for potential employers to imagine you in the new role and increase the chances of securing an interview.

8. Conclude on a positive note

When concluding your career change cover letter, it’s essential to end it enthusiastically. For example, name one way you can add value to the company and link it to your overall career vision. 

Finally, thank the hiring manager for considering your application and express your excitement about joining the team. Doing so will show you’re committed to the role and motivated to make a success of your career transition.

3. Career change cover letters example

Want to see cover letter examples that nail these key points? Check out these two samples, written specifically for career changers in the tech sector. Best practice for the email subject line? Put the job title from the job ad along with your full name. 

Career change cover letter: Frontend development

4. key takeaways.

Writing a convincing cover letter that highlights your skills for a role you’re hoping to transition into is an essential step in the job application process. 

A thoughtfully crafted career change cover letter can be the reason why employers take a second look at your resume, despite your limited experience in the new field.

In this article, we’ve gone through the basics of what makes a career change cover letter unique and how to write one tailored to your experience and goals. We’ve also looked at practical tips for structuring your letter and provided examples for your inspiration. 

We hope this guide will give you the confidence to write a standout cover letter and put your best foot forward when applying for jobs.

Looking for more tech-specific application support? Check out our practical guide to crafting the best tech resume , complete with valuable tips and real-world examples.

For further education support on your career change journey, try our free tech short courses ,  or speak directly with a program advisor.

With the help of expert instructors, personalized feedback, and a wealth of learning resources, you’ll soon be ready to tackle even the most complex challenges future employers might throw at you. 

Enjoyed this blog post? We think you’ll like these, too:

• How To Successfully Change Careers in 2024: Your Step-by-Step Guide
• The Top 5 Transferable Skills and How They Can Help You
• How to Build a Personal Brand for Your Tech Career

Explore your training options in 10 minutes Get Started

• Graduate Stories
• Partner Spotlights
• Bootcamp Prep
• Bootcamp Admissions
• University Bootcamps
• Coding Tools
• Software Engineering
• Web Development
• Data Science
• Tech Guides
• Tech Resources
• Career Advice
• Online Learning
• Internships
• Apprenticeships
• Tech Salaries
• Associate Degree
• Bachelor's Degree
• Master's Degree
• University Admissions
• Best Schools

Certifications

• Bootcamp Financing
• Higher Ed Financing
• Scholarships
• Financial Aid
• Best Coding Bootcamps
• Best Online Bootcamps
• Best Web Design Bootcamps
• Best Data Science Bootcamps
• Best Technology Sales Bootcamps
• Best Data Analytics Bootcamps
• Best Cybersecurity Bootcamps
• Best Digital Marketing Bootcamps
• Los Angeles
• San Francisco
• Browse All Locations
• Digital Marketing
• Machine Learning
• See All Subjects
• Bootcamps 101
• Full-Stack Development
• Career Changes
• View all Career Discussions
• Mobile App Development
• Cybersecurity
• Product Management
• UX/UI Design
• What is a Coding Bootcamp?
• Are Coding Bootcamps Worth It?
• How to Choose a Coding Bootcamp
• Best Online Coding Bootcamps and Courses
• Best Free Bootcamps and Coding Training
• Coding Bootcamp vs. Community College
• Coding Bootcamp vs. Self-Learning
• Bootcamps vs. Certifications: Compared
• What Is a Coding Bootcamp Job Guarantee?
• How to Pay for Coding Bootcamp
• Ultimate Guide to Coding Bootcamp Loans
• Best Coding Bootcamp Scholarships and Grants
• Education Stipends for Coding Bootcamps
• Get Your Coding Bootcamp Sponsored by Your Employer
• GI Bill and Coding Bootcamps
• Tech Intevriews
• Our Enterprise Solution
• Connect With Us
• Publication
• Reskill America
• Partner With Us

• Resource Center
• Bachelor’s Degree
• Master’s Degree

How to Write an Effective Career Change Cover Letter and Resume

Getting a new job, especially when you just went through a tech career change , is challenging. Since you are new in the industry, you need more than your current experience to secure a job for yourself. To be successful during the job search, you have to craft a compelling career change cover letter and a career change resume.

With little or no experience in the new field, you are already disadvantaged. Employers typically consider professionals who have been working in the field before they examine career changers like yourself. 

Find your bootcamp match

To increase your chances of being hired, we have prepared this guide to take you through the entire process of writing an effective career change letter and resume. By applying the principles in this article, you too can become the ideal candidate and kickstart a successful career at 45 in this new industry.

Career Change Cover Letter Guide

The cover letter is your avenue to express the value you will bring to an organization regardless of the absence of relevant experience. Your potential employer will notice that you lack direct experience in the industry. Still, you must demonstrate that you can perform excellently through a career change cover letter.

Changing careers can be a liberating experience—you’ll be able to take on a new set of challenges, and spend your time exploring a new field. You might even be able to land a high-paying job for people over 50 . If you are passionate about changing to a different career, you may be wondering “how can I effectively communicate my value to an employer, even if I am not directly qualified for a job?”

That’s where the cover letter comes in. Cover letters are an opportunity for you to craft a narrative about your past experience and why you, specifically, are the right fit for a job. Whereas resumes are a list of your past experiences and skills, cover letters can be used to explain how certain experiences have prepared you for the role for which you are applying.

In this guide, we’re going to discuss how you can write a career change cover letter that will clearly showcase your value to an employer. We’ll also walk through an example career change cover letter you can use as inspiration for your letter.

Why Does Your Career Change Cover Letter Matter? 

Your career change cover letter matters because it will show why you are perfect for the job opportunity, despite not having direct experience. When employers review applications, they look to see if candidates have the necessary qualifications. 

Upon screening your resume, it will become clear that you don’t have experience for the job. This is where you need a cover letter to help the employer understand why you are changing careers.

While the reasons for a career transition can include many things, your letter helps express your passion for the job and draws a connection between your previous positions and your new field of interest. It can be a difficult feat to achieve, but your aim should be to draw your prospective employers’ attention to your transferable skills.

Your cover letter is the perfect opportunity to expatiate your proficiency in any soft skills or technical skills. Without knowing how to write a well-crafted career change cover letter , you likely won’t make it very far in the job application process.

Essential Components of Your Career Change Cover Letter

As a career changer at 35 , your letter has to be exceptional to make a difference. It should have a good structure and include the following components. They are essential to developing your letter and determining the flow of its content.

• Header. In this section, you will provide personal information like your phone number and email address in case the employer needs to contact you. Aside from your contact details, you should also include the date.
• Opening salutation. By addressing the letter directly to the recruiter, you are showing intentionality and effort. The safest option is to use the salutation “Dear” followed by the person’s last name with title. If you can’t find the recruiter’s name, address your cover letter to the head of the department that you are applying to. 
• Opening paragraph. This is the introduction to your letter. In one paragraph, you should express your enthusiasm and excitement for the job, mention any important referrals, and briefly address why you are a strong candidate. Your introduction should be strong enough to compel the recruiter to read on. 
• Body. This section requires great care and attention as it is the heart of your letter. In two or three paragraphs, give the reader an insight into your work history, linking your previous experience with the position you are applying for. Make sure to discuss any interpersonal skills that are relevant such as being a team player. 
• Closing paragraph. Take a moment to restate your interest and show appreciation to the recruiter for considering your letter. Include a call to action and mention the best way of contacting you. 
• Closing salutation. The way you close your career transition cover letter also matters. A formal salutation like “Kind regards” or “Respectfully” would be perfect to close your letter. End with your name and include your signature if you are submitting a hard copy.

5 Tips for Writing a Strong Career Change Cover Letter

When writing a cover letter, there are a few best practices that you can’t ignore, including staying within one page, using a professional font, and proofreading the copy before submitting the document. However, because this is a career change cover letter, there are a few more steps we recommend. Use these cover letter writing tips to bolster your candidacy.

• Conduct in-depth research . Before you begin your application, you should research the company, its values, business model, and operations. This will help you tailor your letter to the company’s needs. In addition, you will find out if your values align with those of the company.
• Use the right keywords . If you want your letter to resonate with the recruiter, write it with keywords from the job description in mind. If the company is looking for an individual with “organizational skills” and “experience in sales,” include these exact terms in your letter. 
• Describe why you decided to change careers . Explain to your prospective employer the reasons for your career switch, describing your passion for the new career path and your enthusiasm to embark on this new journey. Discuss your eagerness to learn and take on challenges.
• Highlight your transferable skills . Be clear about your key skills and connect your main competencies to this specific job. If you are a technical writer switching to data analysis , highlight how your communication skills and research abilities can aid you in the process of extracting and analyzing data as well as conveying your findings in simple language. Your core strengths are still relevant even if they are not directly related to the new job.
• Quantify your accomplishments . In the main body of your letter, you should mention a few of your most notable accomplishments in previous roles. Providing concrete figures to measure these achievements will lend more credibility to your candidacy.

Career Change Cover Letter Example

The following sample cover letter illustrates some of the main points we have addressed so far in this article. If you use this letter as a guide, developing your career transition cover letter will be a walk in the park. 

Career Change Cover Letter Sample

Marc Grey 

San Francisco, CA 75550

(+1) 324-7293

[email protected]

December 21, 2021

John Tarantino 

Hiring Manager

ABC Company

16 Milky Way New York City, NY 

Dear Mr Tarantino, 

I am excited to be applying for the data analyst position at ABC Company. With my five years of experience in research and technical writing, I believe I have what it takes to pursue a new career analyzing and communicating findings from financial audits as a data analyst in your company.

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"

Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot

In my previous position, I was responsible for reporting annual profit margins and employee turnover rates. This position exposed me to the techniques involved in data extraction, analysis, and reporting. With the implementation of various strategies to analyze findings, I gained the invaluable skill of providing intangible, actionable insights for business operations.

Maintaining an impeccable track record, I gained recognition from senior managers and received numerous Employee of the Month awards. My achievements came from my dedication to providing authentic and reliable reports to enhance business decisions.

I believe I would be a perfect addition to your data analytics team as I can employ my skillset and knowledge from my background to achieve company objectives. I am an enthusiastic learner that appreciates teamwork and performs optimally in a positive working environment.

I hope my skills and expertise are sufficient for you to consider me as a candidate for the data analyst position at ABC Company. I appreciate your consideration, and I hope to meet with you soon. You can contact me by phone or email. 

Sincerely, 

How to Write a Career Change Cover Letter

The goal of writing any cover letter is to explain why you’re qualified for a particular job. However, when you’re writing a career change cover letter, you’ll need to go further. You’ll need to make sure that you draw clear links between your past experience and how that has prepared you for the new career you want to enter.

To help you write a career change cover letter, we’ve compiled a list of top tips that will help you communicate your value to an employer.

#1: Talk about why you are changing careers

If an employer is reading a cover letter from someone who is changing careers, they will likely be asking themselves: why is this person changing careers? Understanding why you are changing careers will help an employer better evaluate your motivation, and whether or not you are a good fit for the job.

Are you changing careers because you want a new challenge? Has a specific career always been interesting to you? Did you discover that you love practicing a certain skill after working on a side project? Whatever the reason, make it clear why you are changing careers in your cover letter.

#2: Talk about your good performance in other jobs

The goal of a cover letter is to communicate your value to a business, and there is no better way to accomplish this goal than by talking about your past successes.

In your career change cover letter, you should spend time talking about how you have succeeded in jobs you’ve held in the past. For instance, if you’ve won an employee of the month award, or exceeded sales targets, or managed other employees, these are all things you can mention in your cover letter.

While your prior experience may not be directly related to the position for which you are applying, it will help an employer get to know you better. In addition, the information you share about your past accomplishments will illustrate your work ethic to an employer, which is a soft skill you’ll need to successfully transition to a new job.

#3: Explain your transferable skills

Transferable skills, also known as “soft skills,” are the skills that can be applied to any job, no matter what your title is or what industry you work in.

Throughout your professional career, you will have accrued transferable skills. For instance, if you managed employees in your last job, you will have built up management experience. If you coordinated the schedule of your boss in your last job, you will have had to utilize your organizational skills.

In your cover letter, you should mention a few of the transferable skills you have that you think will relate to the position for which you are applying. Are you applying for a job where time management skills will be crucial? You may want to mention a time when you used your time management skills at your last job.

#4: Discuss why you are passionate about a company

When an employer is reading your cover letter, they should feel that you are excited about the opportunity. Employers want to hire people who are motivated to do a good job, even if it means working in a position that may not have as many responsibilities as they are used to.

In your cover letter, be sure to mention why you are applying for a job with the company. Do you think their vision is particularly interesting? Do they sell a product that you use and love? 

Writing a career change cover letter can feel intimidating, especially if the career path you want to follow is significantly different from the one you have been following in the past.

In your cover letter, you should focus on discussing your unique talents and how your past experiences have prepared you for a role in your new career. When you can, make links between the skills that you learned in your old career, and how you think those skills could be applied in the context of your new career.

By following the tips we covered in this article, you’ll be on your way to writing an effective career change cover letter that conveys your value to an employer, even if you don’t have all of the qualifications necessary for a position. A strong cover letter may be what encourages an employer to reach out to schedule an interview, so make it count.

Career Change Resume Guide

While the cover letter provides relevant details about your skills and how they apply to your current industry, your career change resume summarizes your work and education history. It gives the employer an overview of your career progression and the relevant skills you have picked up along the way. Your resume also showcases your main competencies by detailing your previous roles.  

Why Does Your Career Change Resume Matter?

Because you are switching careers, your previous resume is no longer valid. You need to focus on creating a brand new resume that targets the position you are applying for and that follows the structure and tips we highlight below.

Because you have minimal or no experience in the new field, you must put together a strong resume that showcases your transferable skills and your relevant education and work experience. This is the perfect opportunity to highlight specific duties and responsibilities that you have carried out in the past and that are relevant to this position. You should also include your most notable achievements in previous jobs.

Essential Components of Your Career Change Resume

There are essential components that serve as the building blocks of a solid resume. We take a look at the main sections that every resume should include.

• Header. Much like your cover letter, your resume also has a header with your contact information. In addition to your name, address, phone number, and email, you should also add a link to your LinkedIn profile. 
• Professional summary. This section comes after the header. It is a short description of your personal profile. To write a strong professional summary , make sure that is tailored to the position you are applying for and that it is only a few lines in length.
• Skills. As a career changer, you lack industry experience, so this section should be the main focus of your resume. List abilities that transfer well to the job at hand. You can never go wrong with customer service, marketing, and leadership skills.
• Experience. You probably don’t have much work experience in the industry, so use this section to highlight any responsibilities you have undertaken in the past that could apply to this job. Likewise, list your most important achievements for every role using concrete figures whenever possible.
• Certifications. Add any certificates, certifications, or diplomas that you believe add weight to your candidacy, even if they are not directly related to the advertised position. Adding a certification, even if it is not completely relevant, shows the employer that you are committed to professional development.
• Education. Use this section to list academic degrees and training programs. If you are applying for a tech role, make sure to include any coding bootcamp you have attended.
• References . Add at least a couple of referees that can vouch for you as a professional. These can be previous employers, colleagues, or even college professors.

5 Tips for Writing a Strong Career Change Resume

Employers need to see that you are a qualified candidate, and it is your responsibility to ensure that your resume is up to the task. Here we give you the top tips to create a winning career change resume.

• Choose a functional format . There are three main types of resume formats: functional, reverse-chronological, and combination. For a career changer, a functional resume is the clear best option as it puts the emphasis on your skills as opposed to your experience. To create a winning functional resume , use the template we have provided below.
• Include keywords . Before your resume ever gets to the hands of the recruiter, it will likely go through an applicant tracking system (ATS). If your document contains the right keywords, which you can find in the job posting, it stands a much greater chance of making it to the recruiter.
• Highlight transferable skills . Your resume, much like the cover letter, should emphasize your transferable skills. Choose the most relevant hard and soft skills you bring to the table and mention them in both the professional summary and skills section. 
• Gather strong references . Your referees lend credibility to you as a professional. You want to choose people that you have worked with in the past and that can attest to your professionalism and hard work. Supervisors, colleagues, mentors, and professors are all good options but make sure you notify them so that they are ready in case the company calls them. 
• Proofread your resume . Carefully check for grammatical errors before submitting your resume. A small mistake can be enough for a potential employer to disqualify you, so edit and proofread your resume several times before sending it.

Career Change Resume Examples

Hopefully, the tips above will help you create a strong resume that you can use to change industries. To show you exactly how to implement these tips, we have included some samples below. First, you’ll find an example of a professional summary for a career change resume. Below that, there is a career change template in which you can plug in your own information.

Career Change Resume Sample: The Professional Summary Section

Systematic and seasoned researcher proficient in data extraction, analysis, and technical writing. Seeks to utilize five years of experience and technical skills in a data analyst position to provide actionable insights for business operations in a target-driven financial institution.

Sample Career Change Resume Template

[ Your Name ]

[Email, phone number]

[LinkedIn link]

[Professional summary]

Work Experience

[ Position title ], [Employment dates]

[Company], [Location]

• [Accomplishment]
• [Certification], [Provider]

[ Degree or training program ], [Dates of attendance]

[Institution]

• [Distinction]

[Title], [Company]

[Phone number]

Career Change Resume Template Resources

SampleTemplates : This site contains a wide array of resumes that you can customize. With many options available, you can create a career transition resume for your target industry or field. 

Novoresume : Here, you will find templates for each type of resume format. They are easy to customize and you can easily add your own personal touch.

ResumeGenius: Using this powerful resume builder powered by artificial intelligence, it is easy to create a functional resume that meets the needs of a career changer.

Importance of a Career Change Cover Letter and Resume 

If your goal is to successfully enter a new field, crafting your application documents with care and attention is of utmost importance. Even if you lack extensive experience in this new industry, a well-written career change cover letter and resume will give you a good shot at the position, even if this is a highly competitive opening.

Career Change Cover Letter and Resume FAQ 

Both documents should contain similar information. The main difference is that in your cover letter you can go into more detail about your key competencies. Never use the same exact wording in both documents as this will come off as lazy. Both documents should be consistent in terms of style and font.

No, it is best to use your resume to prepare a standard cover letter. Take inspiration from the content of your resume to craft your letter. Essentially, your letter is the last document you should work on during the application process.

Going with a functional resume is safe because it helps to draw attention to your skills and abilities rather than relevant work experience. As a job seeker who is switching industries, you can’t go wrong with a functional resume.

Since you are applying for a job, be professional when writing your cover letter. Avoid personal details that are irrelevant to the position such as your spouse, age, or religion. Instead, focus on relevant details about your qualifications for the position.

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

What's Next?

Get matched with top bootcamps

Ask a question to our community, take our careers quiz.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Explore Jobs

• Jobs Near Me
• Remote Jobs
• Full Time Jobs
• Part Time Jobs
• Entry Level Jobs
• Work From Home Jobs

Find Specific Jobs

• $15 Per Hour Jobs
• $20 Per Hour Jobs
• Hiring Immediately Jobs
• High School Jobs
• H1b Visa Jobs

Explore Careers

• Business And Financial
• Architecture And Engineering
• Computer And Mathematical

Explore Professions

• What They Do
• Certifications
• Demographics

Best Companies

• Health Care
• Fortune 500

Explore Companies

• CEO And Executies
• Resume Builder
• Career Advice
• Explore Majors
• Questions And Answers
• Interview Questions

How To Write A Career Change Cover Letter (With Examples)

• Cover Letter Examples
• Best Cover Letters
• Cover Letter For Internship
• General Cover Letter Templates
• Career Change Cover Letter
• Promotion Cover Letter
• College Student Cover Letter
• Entry Level Cover Letter
• Legal Cover Letter
• Creative Cover Letter
• Cover Letter For Government Job
• Cover Letter With No Experience
• Short Cover Letter Examples
• How To Send An Email Cover Letter
• How To Write A Cover Letter For A Job With No Experience In That Field

Find a Job You Really Want In

Summary. To write a career change cover letter you should first start with a professional header with your information as well as the hiring managers information. Be sure to find the hiring managers name to address the letter but if you are unable to, use their position title. Your opening line should be captivating and catch the readers attention.

Even though changing your career may feel dramatic or drastic, the reality is that it isn’t an unusual step to take. The key, however, is to explain your reasons for the change to the hiring managers in your industry of choice, and your cover letter is one of the best places to do this.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to write a cover letter for this situation and show you some examples you can use as a reference.

Key Takeaways

Your cover letter should be concise (200-400 words), so you’ll need to grab the reader’s attention and get to the point quickly.

Explain both why you decided to leave your old career and why you chose this particular new one in your cover letter.

Show that you understand the position and company you’re applying to and explain why you’d be a good fit in your cover letter.

How to Write a Career Change Cover Letter

Career change cover letter example, email cover letter example, tips for writing a career change cover letter, career change cover letter faq, ask the experts.

• Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs

Chances are you have researched several different cover letter examples and are still trying to settle on the perfect one. The good news is that all great cover letter templates will have a relatively similar structure. It should formatted in the normal business letter layout .

Remember that cover letters should be short; about half a page long, with 200-400 words (shorter is usually better), and 3-4 paragraphs.

Include the following sections in your cover letter:

Header (only for physical copies of your cover letter)

Opening paragraph

Body paragraph(s)

Closing lines

Sign-off and signature

You should think of a cover letter as a way to sell yourself to potential employers. That means expressing your qualifications, showing that you’ve been researching the company , and detailing why you would be perfect for the new job.

You never want to have just another generic cover letter, so here’s more on the specifics to craft your perfect cover letter :

Cover Letter Header

If you’re sending a physical copy of your cover letter, you should start with a professional header. Include the following information, formatted in the same way:

[Your name] [Your address] [Phone number] [Email] [Current date] [Hiring Manager name] [Title] [Company address]

Tom Timmins 34 Apple St., New York, NY (555)-555-5555 [email protected] 4/28/2021 Sara Bilson Director of Sales New Company 55 New Road, New York, NY

Cover Letter Greeting

Always do your best to find the name of the hiring manager . Check the job posting, the company’s website, and their LinkedIn page. If you strike out online, try calling the company and ask who the cover letter for your desired position should be sent to.

If you’re unable to find the hiring manager’s name, you can use “Dear Hiring Manager” or one of its better alternatives .

Dear Ms. Tanner, Dear Alix Sims, Dear Software Engineer Hiring Team,

Cover Letter Opening Lines

When writing a stellar cover letter, one of the “don’ts” is to open with a mundane sentence. Simply stating “I am reaching out to apply for [role] at [Company name]” will not set you apart from other job applicants or make a memorable first impression.

You want the opening line to be captivating while also remaining relevant to the position. Easy ways to do this are by sharing an experience that relates to the new job or expressing genuine enthusiasm for the role right away and why.

Remember, as a career changer, you want to highlight transferable skills and experiences. So, let’s say you’re trying to move from customer service to sales. A cover letter opening might look something like this:

Helping customers have positive experiences is a passion I’ve developed in over 4 years of customer service. With a proven track record of high customer engagement and retention, I’m ready to take my career to the next level by generating leads and sharing exciting opportunities with new and existing clients as a Sales Representative for XYZ Corp.

Cover Letter Body Paragraph(s)

In your cover letter’s body paragraph(s), you want to show recruiters that there is more than meets the eye when it comes to your skills.

There are your easily measurable hard skills , such as certifications, computer programs that you are proficient in, etc.

Then come your soft skills , which are character-based traits such as being detail-oriented, having superior time management skills, or being able to work in high-pressure environments. Speak to these soft skills that may not be as apparent within your resume and emphasize how they would be valuable in the new position.

A pro tip for choosing which transferable skills to focus on within your cover letter is to take a look at the job description. There you will find certain keywords that should definitely be featured within your letter.

ABC Inc. needs a Sales Representative who understands clients’ needs and can demonstrate unique value propositions to build trust and credibility. In my time as Customer Service Representative with XYZ Corp., I provided a high level of client service that earned me 99.7% positive customer reviews. I also worked closely with a team, mentoring and training new members to help achieve corporate goals and quotas. XYZ Corp. recognized my contributions by naming me “Customer Success Employee of the Month” in June 2020. I achieved this by maintaining spotless organizational skills to schedule calls, meetings, and client appointments most efficiently. When raised to a supervisory position, I quickly adapted to the demands of the new role by meeting with management to make sure our goals were aligned. This ensured that my team stayed on high-priority tasks, leading to a 17% reduction in customer wait time.

Notice how the candidate outlines her performance in previous jobs while focusing on transferable skills and experiences. Candidates that are already within the industry that you are applying for will likely have concrete examples of how they previously excelled in a similar role.

Even though you are just entering into this new career pathway , you still want to tell recruiters about your previous accomplishments.

If you increased sales, secured client acquisitions, received certain awards for reaching benchmarks, these are all concrete performance indicators. Being able to show how you excelled in other roles can translate to potential successes you may have within the new company. The job title might be different, but a win is a win.

Cover Letter Closing Lines

Your closing statement is as important as your opening lines, since it’s what the reader will walk away remembering most clearly.

A good way to end your cover letter is with a positive statement expressing your enthusiasm for the job and thanking the hiring manager for their time. A brief overview of your work background and a call to action are also appropriate to include.

Here’s an example of what this could look like:

I believe I’d be a great fit for this role and that my background in customer service would serve me well as a Sales Representative. I’d love to further discuss this opportunity with you and share how my experience could serve ABC Inc. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Cover Letter Sign-off and Signature

After you wrap up your letter, close with a professional “Sincerely,” followed by your signature. Here’s what this would look like for a hard copy letter:

Sincerely, [Your handwritten signature] [Your typed name]

And for an email or digital copy:

Sincerely, [Your typed name] [Your address] [Your phone number] [Your email address]

Now that you have all the basics of writing cover letters, it is time to craft your own. Take a look at the professional cover letter examples below, but keep in mind that they should be altered to your liking. Every cover letter should be tailored to the actual position, so also make sure to change the template as needed for each and every potential employer.

[Your name] [Your address] [Phone number] [Email] [Current date] [Hiring Manager name] [Title] [Company address] Dear Mr. Smith, Over the course of the last few months, I have had the wonderful opportunity to begin organizing events within my community for those experiencing financial hardship during COVID. Being able to assist those in need has awakened a passion within me for being able to empower communities, which is why I found City of Lake County’s job requisition for Community Engagement Specialist very exciting. Although my previous experience is primarily within the sales industry, I believe that my professional experience still translates well into this new industry. While at Telco Sales Corp, I was able to achieve the following: Acquired 50 new partnerships in Q1 2020 Increased sales overall by 102% year-over-year Maintained a 98% customer retention rate As a Community Engagement Specialist, the goal is to cultivate relationships and secure funding for community programs. My sales background has proven that I am able to build and maintain relationships while driving revenue. I also won several awards during my tenure, including back-to-back Employee of the Year acknowledgment and Lead Customer Care Advocate. I am ready to make this career transition as I have found my calling when it comes to bettering my community. The analytical and customer service skills from my previous industry paired with my planning and management capabilities would make me the ideal Community Engagement Specialist with Lake County. I appreciate you taking the time to learn more about my qualifications and experiences, and I look forward to learning more about the opportunity. Sincerely, (Signature for hard copy letter) [Your name]

Email cover letters will be exactly the same as a standard career change cover letter. However, there are additional considerations to be made with the actual execution.

You will want to include your full name and the role you are applying for within the subject line. Some job postings will specifically state whether the cover letter should be sent as an email attachment or within the body of the email, so pay close attention to requisition details.

If there is no specification, you can simply put the salutation (skip the preceding contact information that is in a standard cover letter ) and paste your letter into the email. Here is a simple, email career change cover letter sample:

Subject line: Sports Content Writer — [Your name]

Dear [Hiring manager name], Nothing is better than being able to create content that readers love to consume. Last year, I launched my sports blog and quickly realized that what started out as a hobby was my true passion. That is why though I have been working as a Regulatory Specialist the last five years, the Sports Content Writer role at Sports Co. would offer the perfect career transition. With my website, I was able to average over 7,000 unique visitors a month without any paid search campaigns. I also launched a community of over 10,000 sports fans on Facebook where readers are able to engage and ask questions related to the industry. My YouTube channel also currently has over 2,000 subscribers and counting, with new videos produced on a weekly cadence. As a Regulatory Specialist, I had to review a large volume of applications on a daily basis and ensure accuracy. I also had to update applications and send out correspondence for any missing information. This has helped me become a skilled proofreader , meaning that my content is publication-ready and requires little time to edit. Additional achievements while in this role have included: Maintaining an 100% accuracy rate on approved applications Receiving multiple Processor of the Month awards for completing the most applications over a 30-day period Being named Quality Assurance Lead for consistently proofing and sending over 100+ pieces of correspondence within a 7-day period Sports Co. is a company built on providing fun and engaging sports information to fans. Being that your site averages 100,000 views per day and is considered an authority in the sports industry, I feel like my skill set would only help add to the overall readership. Unlike other companies, Sports Co. also caters to less popular sports such as darts and pool. I have experience writing about these sports and numerous others on my own blog, with a knowledge of just about every sport imaginable. I believe that being able to work in a fast-paced environment, familiarity producing high volumes of content, and having a wide breadth of sports knowledge make me an ideal candidate for the Sports Content Writer position. I appreciate your time in reviewing my qualifications and I look forward to learning more about the opportunity. Best, [Your name] [Address] [Phone number] [Email] [LinkedIn Profile URL (optional)]

Explain why you’re seeking a career change. This is a question that just about any applicant seeking a new career would likely receive in a job interview , so it’s great to disclose it in your cover letter.

Employers generally want to know why you left your last employer and making a complete career change naturally leaves questions. Your reason could be as wanting to try something new in a post-COVID job market . You may have a friend that is in the industry and you feel that your skill set more closely aligns with a role more similar to theirs.

There really is no right or wrong as far as your reasoning; just make sure to give the hiring manager an idea of why you want the position even though your experience is elsewhere.

Although I excel at customer service, I find that I’m most engaged and performing at my highest level when I’m helping a customer find a new solution rather than fix a problem with their current product. When my supervisor commented on how no customer service rep she had managed had higher conversion rates than me, it stuck with me.

Show passion for your new direction. This is where you can truly shine and completely differentiate yourself from other applicants. Why are you passionate about the industry, and more specifically, this particular role?

You want to explain why you are excited to be on this journey and how you would be an excellent fit for the team. Discuss where this passion comes from to add a personal touch, then explain why having this drive will help you succeed in the role.

Being able to help customers find quality solutions while maintaining brand loyalty is a real passion of mine. I hope to bring your company’s product and services to a wider audience because I truly believe that there’s no better POS service around than what you offer.

Prove you understand the company. Hiring managers want to hire people that have a genuine, vested interest in their organization. Do you have personal reasons as to why you want to join the company? Do they have a social impact team whose efforts and initiatives you admire?

Scrape beneath the surface and do research. Show the recruiter how your core values align with those of the company.

You can start with looking at the company’s website , but you should dig deeper by also visiting LinkedIn. Take a look at the different profiles of employees, paying close attention to those that might have a similar role to the one you are applying for. You can learn more about a company from the people that work there versus website boilerplate.

I notice that you have a corporate motto of “Listen First,” which really resonates with me. Sales, like customer service, is all about accurately identifying pain points and offering solutions that may not be apparent to the customer at first. I make it a point to allow clients free reign at the start of a discussion, so as to better inform my strategy for helping them.

How long should a career change cover letter be?

A career change cover letter should be about half a page or three and four paragraphs. Your letter should only be between 200 and 400 words so it’s important to be concise and to the point.

How do you state that you are changing a career in a cover letter?

You should explain to the reader why you are seeking a career change and show passion for your new direction when stating a career change in a cover letter.

A potential employer will want to know why you left your previous employer and they will wonder why you left the field completely. Explaining your reasons will help give them a better understanding.

What should be avoided when writing a cover letter?

You should avoid any spelling or grammar mistakes in your cover letter. It can be seen as unprofessional if you misspelled anything in your letter. You should also avoid making your letter generic because your recipient will be able to tell. Be sure to tailor it to each company that you are applying to and try to find the name of your recipient as well.

How To Write A Career Change Cover Letter

Nicole Ozburn Human Resources Director

Some things are industry specific but can be quickly learned due to your similar experience in another industry. For instance, if I were looking to change my career from Human Resources to Marketing, I would talk about my recruitment skills and how I have marketed jobs in the past. I would also advise to describe the reason for the change in career. If it is due to COVID-19, the economy, or recently acquiring additional skills through education, the employer may be compelled to give my resume some consideration.

Kevin Daniels Owner and Lead Copywriter

The idea of capturing the reader’s attention at the outset is an excellent one–that has proven to be effective.

You could even start with a quote from a known expert in the field of interest (or simply a famous person)–and use this as a jumping-off place for the content of your letter. Also, using a bulleted format for the body of the letter can be eye-catching (because it’s different)–and will provide structure for seamlessly popping tailored content in/out of your letter as needed.

Translatable skills are extremely important with transition cover letters (and resumes too). First, try Googling “Work Skills” and then “Work Traits.” You will get many, many examples of each (which will help you discern the difference)–and will help you choose ones that ring true for you; ones that are aligned with your professional brand.

Also, remember to avoid too much content (or any) content unique to the industry you’re leaving.

In my 14-year career with Boeing Commercial Airplanes, I became a noted expert in DfX and APQP methodologies…

In the recent decade-plus of my experience, I have achieved noteworthy SME status in Lean/Six Sigma and related compliance directives delivering millions of dollars of recurring savings to the business…

This uses the far more universal “Lean” and Six Sigma” references that will have meaning in any business or manufacturing environment, as opposed to pigeonholing yourself as Aerospace-centric.”

Harvard Extension School – Resume and Cover Letters

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

Recent Job Searches

• Registered Nurse Jobs Resume Location
• Truck Driver Jobs Resume Location
• Call Center Representative Jobs Resume Location
• Customer Service Representative Jobs Resume
• Delivery Driver Jobs Resume Location
• Warehouse Worker Jobs Resume Location
• Account Executive Jobs Resume Location
• Sales Associate Jobs Resume Location
• Licensed Practical Nurse Jobs Resume Location
• Company Driver Jobs Resume

Related posts

How To Include Salary Requirements In A Cover Letter (With Examples)

The Best Cover Letter Examples (And Tips)

Best Font For Cover Letter When Applying For A Job

Tips For Sending Email Cover Letters

• Career Advice >
• Cover Letter >

• Cover Letter Tips

How To Write the Best Career Change Cover Letter (+ Examples) 

So, you want to try something completely new? When you’re thinking about a career change, your cover letter is an essential tool. Your resume will tell the hiring manager about your experience, but you’ll use the cover letter to fill in the blanks.

Frankly, when you're changing careers, you have to work just a bit harder than any other applicants with a more intuitive work history. That means showing that the experience you have is an asset and that it can be transferred to this new role. Luckily, you can do all of this (and more!) by writing a well-thought-out career change cover letter. 

A career change cover letter is an opportunity to start a conversation to explain exactly why you're applying for a job outside of your current field. Get this right, and you will convince any hiring manager that you’re the best candidate for the job. But how do you get started?

Here at ZipJob, we give you the resources you need to supercharge your job search. In the following guide, we’ll share seven tips from our professional resume writers on how to write the best career change cover letter. We've also got a career change cover letter example for you to check out.

More common than you might think

First, a word of encouragement: In our fast-paced and rapidly changing economy, people are changing careers at rates that would have been unthinkable just a few short generations ago. In fact, recent statistics show that people have an average of 12 jobs in their lifetime. 

That can create problems for many applicants, however, and you may not be sure how you can use your resume to properly convey the right experience needed for your new career. The good news is that you can take care of that concern by using that other vital application tool: the cover letter.

7 tips for your career change cover letter

Ready to put pen to paper? When you're writing a career change cover letter, it's important to stay on task. This isn't the place to write a heart-to-heart that reads more like a journal entry than a professional document. Instead, focus on what makes you a great applicant. 

To help you along the way, we have some expert-backed tips below:

1. Make sure you use the right words

Changing careers is a big deal. While your resume will have covered your skills and experience, you can use this letter to really sell yourself to the hiring manager. What you lack in experience, you may be able to make up for in the willingness to learn.

While you can use your cover letter to explain why you want a new career, it doesn’t start and end there. This is also an opportunity to share why you are ready to switch things up. With that in mind, use words that excite the hiring manager and show your desire to work in your chosen field. The more creative you are with the language you use, the better here.

2. Be honest about your career change

The biggest mistake you could make here is trying to sneak your way into a new sector. The hiring manager already has your resume, so they know that you don’t have experience in this field. You should never try to bamboozle them into interviewing you on the basis of faux experience. Even if you do make it to the interview level, you will soon get found out. 

Instead, you need to be 100% honest about your career change. Direct your cover letter to the hiring manager and be clear about why you are switching industries. For example, you may have reached the highest heights in your current sector and feel it’s time for a change. On the other hand, you may have a real passion for this new field and want to pursue it. 

Whatever your reason is, now is the time to talk about it. You don’t need to write a short memoir. The hiring manager will ask you more in-depth questions at the interview stage. However, it’s smart to outline your reasoning here so that you fill in the blanks. State that you are looking to move sectors and try to give a compelling reason to the reader now.

3. Emphasize your transferable skills

When you’re writing a career change cover letter, this is vital. Transferable skills are your current talents that would help you succeed in a different position. These skills are often soft skills but may also be technical or analytical skills from your previous profession. Identify what your strengths are. How might those help you in another industry?

You can also approach this from the other side by spending some time analyzing the company’s needs. Look at the job description, the company website, and recent media coverage to identify the core skills that this company requires. Once you’ve honed in on those needs, you can determine which of your skills can help to make you a great candidate for the job.

Of course, you should heavily feature your transferable skills on your resume. Once you've noted them, you can offer more of an explanation in your cover letter about how each skill will apply to this new job. 

Emphasize your relevant skills within the body of the career change cover letter too. That means including specific examples of how they have helped you to achieve certain results and goals in the past. Show the hiring manager what you have to bring to the table. You can do this by identifying the overlap between your two fields and highlighting it clearly. Be brief, but be sure to answer why you're applying and why you're worth interviewing.

Key Takeaway

The key to a career change cover letter is to identify and highlight related and transferable skills.

4. Focus on your results

Results matter more than you think. The number one thing that will push you ahead of your competition are fantastic accomplishments on your resume . Your accomplishments are still valid, even when changing careers: awards, honors, and other results that show you're a high-achieving employee will make you look like a winner. 

Your career change cover letter gives you a chance to explain why it's so impressive that you accomplished something. Try to figure out numbers or metrics – these really stand out on resumes and cover letters. Quantifying your results will show the hiring manager that your hard work achieves big things. This fact will surely grab their attention. 

To showcase those results, you need to emphasize the success that you’ve enjoyed in prior jobs, providing details that help to connect those successes to your transferable skills. From there, you only need to complete the picture by explaining how your prior achievements and transferable skills can offer tangible benefits to the new company.

Always use the STAR method

Showcasing your results and quantifying them doesn’t have to be hard. Make your statements stand out by using the STAR method throughout your cover letter. 

5. Demonstrate genuine passion

Let your passion for the company be on full display so that the hiring manager knows you care about getting the position. Mention something new or interesting the company has accomplished, or relate to the company's core values. You can add your personality to your cover letter – as long as it stays relevant!

Take the time to do your homework so that you have a firm understanding of what the company does and how it hopes to achieve its goal. It’s also worth trying to understand the company culture ahead of time. That will enable you to properly convey your passion for the position in the body of your cover letter. In short, figure out what the vibe is and match it.

6. Tailor your resume to reflect your career change goals

If this is your first time creating a career change cover letter, be sure to review your resume when you’re done so that everything is properly coordinated. It all needs to match up. You don’t want any inconsistencies between those two important documents: your cover letter should only talk about experiences that are also mentioned on your resume.

To keep your message clear, make any resume changes that are needed to keep it aligned with the message on your cover letter. Remember, it’s the little things that often make the difference between success and failure. 

If your resume isn't tailored for your career transition goals, check out this article next: How To Tailor Your Resume For Different Positions

7. End with a strong conclusion 

When you’ve done all of the above, it’s time to sign off. The end of your cover letter is a good chance to reaffirm why you want to take this step. You may also want to add that you will help the business in question meet its goals. One of the more critical things you can do with your career change cover letter is insert some type of call to action – encouraging the reader to reach out to you. 

Remember, the hiring manager will naturally slow their reading pace down as they reach the bottom of the page. For that reason, it is vital that you end on a strong and clear note.

Career change cover letter example

This example is to the point and easy to scan through. It has several examples of how the applicant has added value in the past, using numbers that are easy for the reader to translate to a different industry.

Notice also that this letter – like all good cover letters – includes a professional heading and uses a business letter format. It is highly specific, a quick but clear message that you've put some thought into tailoring your cover letter. 

The letter does not use a generic "to whom it may concern" greeting; ideally, you can find the name of the hiring manager. When in doubt, addressing your letter to a "hiring team" is a good alternative.

The heading with your own information was borrowed from the updated resume format we used to share 200+ resume examples written by our professional resume writers. Using the same format for your resume and cover letter is another instance of details that stand out.

Focus on value; win the day 

As you can see, the cover letter for a career change is similar to many others. You still want to focus on the value you can add to the company. By emphasizing your transferable skills, focusing on past achievements, and demonstrating your interest in the new company, you should be able to leverage your existing skill set in a way that sets you apart from the crowd.

Ready to take the leap and start that new career? Use the ZipJob free resume review now to get the insights that you need to perfect your next application and get ahead of the competition. 

Recommended reading: 

9 Cover Letter Mistakes That Cost You Interviews - ZipJob

7 Signs It's Time To Quit Your Job

How to Ask for a Job Referral + 5 Examples

Charlotte Grainger, Editor & Content Writer, Charlotte Grainger, Editor & Content Writer

Charlotte Grainger is a freelance writer living and working in Sheffield, UK. She has a passion for career development and loves sharing tips and advice. Follow her on Twitter

Our resume services get results.

We’ve helped change over 30,000 careers.

Get a free resume review today

Our experts will review your resume’s grammar, layout, and ability to pass ATS — all free and delivered straight to your inbox.

PROTECT YOUR DATA

This site uses cookies and related technologies for site operation, and analytics as described in our   Privacy Policy . You may choose to consent to our use of these technologies, reject non-essential technologies, or further manage your preferences.

Build my resume

• Resume builder
• Build a better resume in minutes
• Resume examples
• 2,000+ examples that work in 2024
• Resume templates
• 184 free templates for all levels
• Cover letters
• Cover letter generator
• It's like magic, we promise
• Cover letter examples
• Free downloads in Word & Docs

5 Career Change Cover Letter Examples Made for 2024

• Career Change Cover Letter
• Career Change No Experience
• HR Career Change
• Teacher Career Change
• RN Career Change Cover Letter
• Write Your Career Change Cover Letter

Switching careers can be equal parts exciting and daunting. You’re stepping into a whole new path, facing unknown challenges, and rebuilding your personal brand from scratch. There’s a lot at stake here, and to fight this battle and come out on top, you need to pick the right set of weapons.

Step one: a stellar  career change resume  tailored to match the job. Step two, however, is more challenging because you must write a cover letter to wow recruiters and express your excitement at a career change and for the company.

We’re here to help you navigate these murky waters and set the course for the career of your dreams. Our career change  cover letter examples  and free cover letter builder will help you craft a memorable job application.

Career Change Cover Letter Example

USE THIS TEMPLATE

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Block Format

Why this cover letter works

• For instance, this cover letter points to ways the candidate took initiative to connect sales and marketing. This evidences both interest and experience in the target role.

Level up your cover letter game

Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifiting to write your cover letter in seconds.

Career Change No Experience Cover Letter Example

• Take, for instance, how Aria tells the story of her expertise—meticulous data analysis, project management, and problem-solving and convincingly discusses how these can be valuable assets for the new role. So, extract and communicate those transferable skills.

Human Resources Career Change Cover Letter Example

• Such competencies demonstrate that although it’s a career change, you aren’t a stranger to the environment. If the past stints involved the hiring company’s competitor, emphasize that for bonus familiarity points.

Teacher Career Change Cover Letter Example

• If you’ve earned professional certifications that don’t match your current role but align with your target career, your cover letter is the place to highlight them.

Registered Nurse (RN) Career Change Cover Letter Example

• Look for unlikely connections between your work experience and target role, then put the pieces together for recruiters in your cover letter.

Related cover letter examples

• Graphic designer

How to Write a Fantastic Career Change Cover Letter

You may think that you’re at a disadvantage when you’re applying outside of your previous career, but when it comes to cover letters, that’s not true. Treat this as an excellent opportunity to be creative and stand out from the crowd.

Here’s the trick: give that job description a good read, then whip your cover letter into shape to mirror it. Try to decipher the company’s core values, be it from the job listing or from its website, and highlight that this mission is important to you too. 

Pinpoint similarities across your past and future roles for this. For instance, if you’re switching from teaching to programming, emphasize your ability to explain complex topics to all kinds of audiences.

Writing a winning cover letter intro

The perfect cover letter begins with a personalized greeting that addresses the hiring manager by name. However, if you absolutely cannot find the recipient (try LinkedIn), you can use “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear [Company Name] Team.” Refrain from using “To Whom It May Concern” or “Dear Sir/Madam,” as those can be a little outdated by today’s standards.

Avoid generic starters and instead showcase why your past experience is valuable. For instance, if you previously worked in sales and you’re moving to customer service, highlight your ability to forge lasting relationships with clients.

Check out this example of what not to do below. This opening line is definitely on the uninteresting side—the hiring manager might skim your cover letter if it lacks a proper hook.

No, thank you!

“I am writing to apply for the project manager position I saw on your website. I believe this role is a great fit for me.”

Now, the example below is a huge improvement. The applicant immediately makes it clear that they used to have a different career, but they use this to their advantage by highlighting how their background in working with people can have a deep impact on their new career.

Hooked from the start!

I was inspired to transition my career from nursing into sales when I discovered the impact I could make by connecting people with the right product solutions. I am eager to bring my RN background, where relationship-building is paramount, and my skill set in sales forecasting to American Express as a sales manager.

Writing the main part of your cover letter

Roll up your sleeves because we’re diving into the main part of your cover letter—the body. Use this space as an extension of your resume that elaborates on your skills and the way they can make an impact on the company. 

Find common ground and share some of your greatest achievements that translate well to your new role. For example, if you’re a marketer transitioning into sales, discuss how spearheading a social media campaign increased your company’s revenue by 18%. 

Use metrics to support your accomplishments. Things like revenue, ROI, click-through rates, open rates, customer satisfaction ratings, budget savings, or efficiency improvements all apply to most industries. Much like in the intro, connect your background to match the company.

Here’s a body paragraph for inspiration:

In addition to teaching high school math, I have taught myself web and mobile development, database management, and the version control system Git. I am certified in AWS and Google Cloud, and built an educational app that streamlined school communication, improving homework submission rates by 23%.

Ending your cover letter on a strong note

The closing paragraph is the ribbon that you tie on top of a cohesive whole. It serves to reinforce the sentiments you talked about above—but without repeating yourself.

Emphasize your excitement at joining this particular company, and make sure to mention it by name. Pick one or two of your core skills or qualifications and flex a little—express how you will use these abilities to achieve positive outcomes at your new company.

You’re changing industries, so own it, and explain how, for instance, your knowledge of math can help you write complex code.

Lastly, thank the hiring manager for their consideration—you can do this either in the closing paragraph or in your final sign-off. Dot your i’s and cross your t’s with a respectful “Sincerely, [Your Name].”

It’s important to keep this final part respectful. Don’t assume you’ll be hired—instead of showing confidence, it can come off as presumptuous.

“I’m not experienced but I’m a quick learner, so I can’t wait to start growing my career at your company next month.”

This next example has it all—it reiterates your interest in the role, talks about transferable skills, and thanks the recruiter for taking the time to read your cover letter.

This is the way!

I would be thrilled to meet and discuss how my transition from sales to marketing can drive impactful strategies at Comcast. Thank you for considering my application.

When transitioning careers, it’s important to build credibility out of the gate by addressing the right person. Check the job listing and the company website. If that fails, try identifying the hiring manager via LinkedIn.

If all else fails, talk mostly about your education and preparation for the career change, but there are skills that apply to most jobs, too. For instance, working as a programmer and a travel agent means dealing with data and interacting with people.

While you may rely on transferable skills you used in nursing in your future sales role, avoid assuming this new job will have a similar company culture as your last one. Instead, adjust your tone to match the company. For instance, if the job ad and the website are written with humor, you can afford to crack a small joke or write less formally.

Career Change cover letter examples

You’re ready to make a career change but you’re worried that your lack of relevant experience could hold you back.

The good news is, with a carefully crafted cover letter you can highlight your transferable skills, interests and achievements, proving why you’d be an excellent fit for the role.

Find out how to do just that with our step-by-step guide below, complete with career change cover letter examples to help get you started.

CV templates 

Career Change cover letter example 1

Career Change cover letter example 2

Career Change cover letter example 3

The Career Change cover letter examples above should give you a good idea of the type of content you need to include in your own cover letter, and how it should be structured.

But if you’re really looking to wow recruiters and get your CV in front of the very best employers, then check out our guidance on how to write your own effective cover letter below.

How to write a Career Change cover letter

A simple step-by-step guide to writing your very own winning cover letter.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

When writing your Career Change cover letter, it’s best to type the content into the body of your email (or the job site messaging system) and not to attach the cover letter as a separate document.

This ensures that your cover letter gets seen as soon as a recruiter or employer opens your message.

If you attach the cover letter as a document, you’re making the reader go through an unnecessary step of opening the document before reading it.

If it’s in the body of the message itself, it will be seen instantly, which hugely increases the chances of it being read.

Start with a friendly greeting

Start you cover letter with a greeting that is professional but friendly.

This will build rapport with the recruiter whilst showing your professionalism.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

After you have greeted the recruiter, it’s important to state the job you are applying to.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so they need to know exactly which job you are referring to.

Be as specific as possible and use a reference number if you can find one.

Here are some examples you can use;

• I am interested in applying for the role of admin assistant with your organisation.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 4057393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advertisement for a trainee project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.

Take a look at the job descriptions you are applying to, and make note of the most important skills and qualifications being asked for.

Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.

Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider you for the job.

Keep it short and sharp

A good cover letter is short and sharp, getting to the point quickly with just enough information to grab the attention of recruiters.

Ideally your cover letter should be around 4-8 sentences long – anything longer will risk losing the attention of time-strapped recruiters and hiring managers .

Essentially you need to include just enough information to persuade the reader to open up your CV, where the in-depth details will sit.

Sign off professionally

To round of your CV, you should sign off with a professional signature.

This will give your cover letter a slick appearance and also give the recruiter all of the necessary contact information they need to get in touch with you.

The information to add should include:

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Kindest regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network –  e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Jill North IT Project Manager 078837437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip: To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate documents that you could copy in.

What to include in your Career Change cover letter

So, what type of information should you write about in your Career Change cover letter?

The specifics will obviously depend on your profession and the jobs you are applying to, but these are the key areas you should be covering.

• Your industry experience – Tell recruiters the types of companies you have been working for and the roles you have held in the past.
• Your qualifications – Highlight your most important relevant qualifications to show employers you are qualified to do the roles you are applying for.
• The impact you have made – Demonstrate the positive impact you have made for employers in previous jobs. Have you saved money? Improved processes? Made customers happy?
• Your reasons for moving – Employers will want to know why you are leaving your current/previous role, so provide them with a brief explanation here.
• Your availability – When will you be able to start a new job ? Check your current contract to find out your notice period if you are in a position already.

Career Change cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Career Change cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

I am writing to apply for the position of Junior Reporter at the Yorkshire Post, drawing upon my exceptional background as an A Level History teacher and my fervent passion for writing and reporting. The opportunity to transition into journalism and contribute my research and communication skills to a dynamic news outlet resonates deeply with my career aspirations.

In my current teaching role at St James’ High School, I have honed my ability to craft concise and persuasive arguments, guiding students to achieve above-average results in their A Level research projects and exams. Additionally, my proficiency in multi-channel research has been demonstrated through my reporting internship at DICE Magazine, where I wrote compelling articles on local political campaigns and events, gaining recognition with the third-highest online traffic for one particular article. Moreover, as a self-employed freelance blogger, my blog, Birds Eye View, has garnered over 2,000 weekly readers, earning accolades from both HuffPost and The Observer.

I am eager to discuss how my passion for storytelling, solid research capabilities, and NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism can contribute to the Yorkshire Post. I am available from next week for an interview and would welcome the chance to explore this opportunity further.

Kind regards,

Kaleb Azakato ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

I am writing to apply for the Software Developer position at SanTech. With 12 years of experience as a Laboratory Manager for clinical trials, my skills in data management and academic background in biology make me an ideal candidate for this exciting career transition.

In my current role at Sussex University, I have spearheaded the implementation of improved data management systems, resulting in a remarkable 22% increase in productivity and a 54% reduction in lost/mislabelled data. My experience working closely with scientists at the Sinsa Research Centre, preparing materials and assisting with data processing for clinical trials, has equipped me with the necessary technical and administrative skills required for a successful software development career. Additionally, I hold an Advanced Certificate in Clinical Health & Safety and an AAPM Master Quality Manager (MQM) certification, showcasing my commitment to ensuring safety, quality, and regulatory compliance in all projects. As a self-taught individual, I have honed my skills in Python and SQL, empowering me to efficiently develop and manage data-driven applications and databases.

Thank you for considering my application and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience to explore this opportunity further.

Jayden Baxter ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

I am thrilled to apply for the Social Media Manager position at Crew Clothing. My expertise in project management and data-driven strategies to drive sales, coupled with my degree in Fashion Merchandising, makes me an ideal candidate for this exciting career transition.

Throughout my tenure as a Merchandiser at Covet, I successfully managed merchandise planning, resulting in a 15% increase in sales revenue. Additionally, I have excellent project management skills, collaborating with the design team to introduce a new product line that generated £600K in sales within six months. As an Assistant Merchandiser at Taylor & Sons, I analysed sales data to identify growth opportunities which is a skill I would apply to this role. My passion for engaging audiences and my eye for detail align perfectly with the responsibilities of a Social Media Manager. By employing a strategic content plan and utilising data-driven insights, I have achieved a remarkable growth in my personal Instagram and TikTok following, increasing my Instagram followers by 50% and my TikTok followers by 75% within the past six months.

I am eager to discuss how my analytical acumen and adaptability can help enhance Crew Clothing’s social media strategy and I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Hyo Lee ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Writing an impressive cover letter is a crucial step in landing a job and changing careers all at the same time, so taking the time to perfect it is well worth while.

By following the tips and examples above you will be able to create an eye-catching cover letter that will wow recruiters and ensure your CV gets read – leading to more job interviews for you.

Good luck with your job search!

Career Change Cover Letter

Shifting careers? Make your transition smooth with our guide on writing Career Change Cover Letters . This comprehensive guide presents practical examples and expert writing tips to help you demonstrate your transferable skills and convince employers of your potential in a new field. Crafting a compelling career change cover letter can be your stepping stone to exciting new opportunities. Let’s explore the benefits of a well-written career change cover letter and how it can set you apart from other applicants.

What is a Career Change Cover Letter? Definition

A Career Change Cover Letter is a specialized type of cover letter written by job seekers who are switching to a new industry or job role different from their previous experience. This document aims to highlight the transferable skills and knowledge the applicant possesses that make them a suitable candidate for the new role, despite not having direct experience in the field. It provides an opportunity for the applicant to explain their motivation for the career change and reassure employers of their potential and commitment to the new career path.

What is the Best Example of Career Change Cover Letter?

[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP] [Your Email Address] [Today’s Date]

[Employer’s Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State, ZIP]

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. Although I have spent the majority of my career in [Current/Previous Industry], I am eager to transition into [New Industry] and I believe that my strong [mention specific skills] make me a promising candidate for this role.

In my current/previous role as a [Your Current/Previous Job Title] at [Your Current/Previous Company], I have [describe an achievement or responsibility that demonstrates relevant skills]. I believe this experience has prepared me well for the [Job Title] role at your company by demonstrating my ability to [mention a job requirement for the new role].

What attracts me to [New Industry] and specifically to your company is [explain your motivation for the career change and why you are interested in this company]. I am confident that my passion for [aspects of the new job] combined with my transferable skills make me a strong candidate for this role.

I would be thrilled to further discuss how my background and skills would allow me to contribute to your team. I am eager to bring my commitment and drive to succeed to this new opportunity. Thank you for considering my application.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Remember to tailor this template to the specific job and company you’re applying to, and be sure to highlight transferable skills and explain your interest in the new industry.

Size: 27 KB

Free Career Change Cover Letters – Copy & Paste

Explore our selection of good career change cover letters that you can copy, paste, and customize to fit your needs. These examples are designed to highlight your transferable skills, showcase your enthusiasm for the new industry, and convince potential employers of your suitability, making your career transition a smoother process. Use these as a springboard to create your own compelling career change cover letters.

1. Career Change Cover Letter No Experience

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. Although I have been working in [Current Industry], I am eager to transition to [Target Industry] and believe that my transferrable skills and eagerness to learn will make me an asset to your team.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I have [mention a significant accomplishment or responsibility]. While these skills might not directly relate to [mention a responsibility of the target job], they demonstrate my ability to [mention a quality or trait required for the target job].

I am confident that my experience in [mention a transferrable skill or area of knowledge] and my passion for [mention an aspect of the target industry] make me a strong candidate for this position. I am excited to bring my unique perspective to the [Job Title] role at [Company Name], and look forward to the possibility of discussing my application further.

How to Use: This  no experience cover letter is perfect for individuals who are looking to switch industries but have no experience in their target field. It emphasizes transferrable skills and motivation to learn, which are crucial when changing careers.

Size: 26 KB

2. Career Change Cover Letter for Human Resources

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. Having spent [Number of Years] in the [Current Industry], I am now keen to utilize my people management skills in a human resources capacity.

During my tenure as a [Your Current Job Title], I was frequently praised for my ability to handle complex situations with professionalism and a level-headed approach. I believe this skill, among others, makes me an ideal candidate for the position at your organization.

Your company’s reputation for [Company’s Best Feature] has always interested me, and I am confident that my experience in people management and my ability to [a specific HR related skill] can be an asset to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing my suitability for the position further.

How to Use: This hr cover letter is designed for professionals shifting into human resources. Highlight your people management skills, problem-solving capabilities, and willingness to learn new HR systems.

3. Career Change Cover Letter for Teachers

I am thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. While my professional experience lies in [Current Industry], my passion for education and mentoring has driven me to pursue a career in teaching.

In my previous role as [Your Current Job Title], I consistently [mention a significant achievement or responsibility that demonstrates a key teaching skill—e.g. communication, empathy, creativity]. This experience, coupled with my desire to inspire young minds, makes me confident that I would bring a unique and valuable perspective to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to have the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name], and I am ready to further discuss my qualifications in an interview.

How to Use: This teacher cover letter is ideal for professionals transitioning into teaching. Emphasize skills relevant to teaching such as communication, creativity, and patience, and express your passion for education.

Size: 24 KB

4. Career Change Cover Letter for Administrative Assistant

I am eager to apply for the Administrative Assistant position at [Company Name]. Despite having spent most of my career in [Current Industry], I have always admired the organizational skills and multitasking abilities that Administrative Assistants exhibit.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I have [describe an achievement or responsibility that demonstrates organizational skills or multitasking]. I am confident that these skills, along with my ability to work in a fast-paced environment, make me a strong candidate for this role.

I am thrilled about the opportunity to bring my unique skills to [Company Name] and support the team in any way I can.

Thank you for considering my application.

How to Use: This administrative assistant cover letter is for professionals transitioning into an administrative role. Highlight your organizational skills, multitasking abilities, and capacity to work in a fast-paced environment.

Size: 25 KB

5. Career Change Cover Letter for Job Opportunity

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. While I have greatly enjoyed my time in [Current Industry], I believe that this new opportunity aligns more closely with my long-term career goals.

Throughout my career as a [Your Current Job Title], I have developed key skills such as [mention a key skill] and [another key skill]. These skills, coupled with my enthusiasm for [Target Industry], make me a perfect fit for this role.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the chance to discuss how my background and skills would benefit [Company Name].

How to Use: This job cover letter is designed for individuals who are seeking a career change due to new opportunities. It emphasizes key transferrable skills and enthusiasm for the new industry.

6. Career Transition Cover Letter

As an experienced [Your Current Job Title] in the [Current Industry], I have spent many years developing skills that I believe would be valuable in the [Target Industry]. This, coupled with my genuine interest in [Target Industry], has inspired me to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].

In my current role, I have gained [mention a transferrable skill or accomplishment] and have been recognized for my ability to [mention a quality relevant to the target job]. I am confident that these skills and experiences make me a strong candidate for this transition role.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss how I can contribute to your team.

How to Use: This template can be used by individuals who are seeking a significant career transition. It highlights transferrable skills and a genuine interest in the new industry.

7. Career Change Cover Letter for Resume

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. While my resume outlines my experience in [Current Industry], I believe it’s important to highlight how my skills translate to the [Target Industry].

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I have developed a strong skill set, including [mention a key skill] and [another key skill], which I believe could greatly benefit your team. I am eager to bring my [mention a key quality or trait] to a new challenge in the [Target Industry].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing my candidacy further.

How to Use: This cover letter for resume specifically emphasizes the skills on your resume that are most relevant to the new industry you are targeting. It allows you to further elaborate on how these skills can be beneficial in your new role.

8. Professional Career Change Cover Letter

I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. After [Number of Years] in the [Current Industry], I am now seeking to leverage my professional experience into the [Target Industry].

Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated my strong [mention a transferrable skill or quality], which has contributed to my success in [Current Industry]. I am confident that these skills, combined with my knowledge and passion for [Target Industry], make me a strong candidate for this position.

I would welcome the opportunity to further discuss my suitability for this role. Thank you for considering my application.

How to Use: This professional cover letter  example is suitable for seasoned professionals seeking a career change. It allows you to highlight key professional skills that are transferrable to your new industry.

Size: 23 KB

9. Short Career Change Cover Letter

I am eager to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. While my experience has been in [Current Industry], I have always been interested in [Target Industry] and have been actively developing my skills in this area.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I have developed valuable skills such as [mention a key skill] and [another key skill]. I believe these skills would greatly benefit your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to further discussing my suitability for this position.

How to Use: This brief cover letter is perfect for professionals who prefer a more succinct approach. It highlights your interest in the new industry and the key skills you have developed in your current role.

10. Career Change Cover Letter for Nursing Job

As a [Your Current Job Title] with a genuine passion for healthcare, I am excited to apply for the nursing position at [Company Name]. Though my career has been in the [Current Industry], I have always felt a calling towards nursing.

Throughout my career, I have consistently been recognized for my [mention a quality or trait relevant to nursing]. In addition, I have completed [mention any relevant training or certifications]. I believe these qualities, along with my passion for healthcare, make me an excellent candidate for this role.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss my qualifications.

How to Use: This nurse cover letter template is suitable for individuals transitioning into nursing. It showcases your relevant qualities, training, and passion for healthcare.

11. Career Change Cover Letter for Job Application

As a seasoned professional in the [Your Current Job Title], I am eager to apply my skills and experiences to a new challenge in the [Target Industry]. I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name].

Over the years, I have developed skills and qualities such as [mention a key skill] and [another key skill]. These, I believe, will greatly benefit your team. I look forward to bringing my [mention a key quality or trait] to this role.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to discuss how I can contribute to your team.

How to Use: This job application cover letter is a perfect fit for a professional transitioning to a new industry. It highlights key skills and qualities that can be beneficial to the new role.

12. Career Switch Cover Letter

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With a successful career in [Current Industry] under my belt, I am eager to take on a new challenge in the [Target Industry].

I bring with me skills such as [mention a key skill] and [another key skill]. These skills, coupled with my [mention a key quality or trait], make me a strong candidate for this position.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to further discussing my qualifications.

How to Use: This cover letter is a perfect fit for professionals looking to switch industries. It emphasizes transferable skills and the readiness to take on new challenges.

13. Persuasive Career Change Cover Letter

I am writing to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. After [Number of Years] in the [Current Industry], I have developed a robust set of skills that I believe are highly transferable to the [Target Industry].

In my current role, I have proven my ability to [mention a major achievement or skill]. These accomplishments, coupled with my passion for [Target Industry], make me a strong candidate for this role.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss my suitability for this role.

How to Use: This cover letter is highly persuasive, showcasing key achievements and passion for the new industry. It’s perfect for professionals who are confident about their transferable skills.

14. Career Change Cover Letter for Manager

I am writing to express my interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. With a successful managerial career in the [Current Industry], I am ready to leverage my leadership skills in the [Target Industry].

Throughout my career, I have developed and honed skills such as [mention a key skill] and [another key skill], both of which are crucial for a managerial role in any industry. I am confident that these skills, combined with my leadership experience, will prove beneficial in this new role.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing my qualifications further.

How to Use: This  manager cover letter is suitable for managers seeking a career change. It highlights leadership skills and other transferable skills that will prove beneficial in a managerial role in a new industry.

15. Career Change Cover Letter for Information Technology

I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. Though my experience has been in the [Current Industry], I have always had a keen interest in the dynamic field of information technology.

In my current role as [Your Current Job Title], I have honed skills such as [mention a key skill] and [another key skill]. I have also pursued additional training in [mention any IT-related training or certifications you’ve obtained]. I believe that these skills and qualifications make me a strong candidate for this role.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to discuss my qualifications further.

How to Use: This template is ideal for individuals transitioning into the IT industry. It emphasizes interest in the field, relevant skills, and any additional IT-related training or certifications.

Career Change Statement Examples

1. “Leveraging a 10-year track record in team leadership, project coordination, and interpersonal communication from the hospitality industry to drive outcomes and increase efficiency in the healthcare sector.”

2. “Seeking to apply my extensive experience in financial management and strategic planning to the dynamic field of healthcare administration.”

3. “Transitioning from a successful career in real estate, where I developed skills in client relationship management and contract negotiation, to the high-growth e-commerce industry.”

4. “Leveraging a deep understanding of software development acquired during my time in the tech sector, I am keen on applying these skills to the burgeoning field of FinTech.”

5. “After spending several years in the marketing industry, I am looking to leverage my creative thinking and strategic planning skills in a career in urban planning and development.”

6. “Seeking to apply my background in customer service to a career in Human Resources, bringing excellent communication skills, empathy, and conflict resolution expertise.”

7. “With a proven track record in sales and business development, I am eager to bring my leadership skills and drive for results into the nonprofit sector to drive mission-driven outcomes.”

8. “Transitioning from a career in academic research to industry, eager to apply problem-solving abilities, analytical skills, and a keen understanding of data analytics.”

9. “Following a successful career in the military, I am eager to transition into civilian project management roles, leveraging strong leadership, discipline, and strategic planning skills.”

10. “After a rewarding career in teaching, I am looking to use my skills in presentation, leadership, and mentorship in a corporate training role.”

How Do I Write a Cover Letter for a Change in my Career?

Writing a cover letter for a career change can be somewhat daunting, but it is an opportunity to showcase your transferable skills, demonstrate your passion for the new industry, and explain why you are making this change.

1. Opening: Start by addressing the hiring manager and expressing your enthusiasm for the position. Highlight your current profession and mention your intention to transition into the new industry.

2. Body: In the main body, focus on transferable skills, drawing parallels between what you’ve done and what the new role requires. Also, illustrate with examples where you’ve applied these skills. Be sure to relate these skills to the job requirements.

3. Concluding: Conclude by reiterating your interest in the new field and the specific job you’re applying for. Show gratitude for their consideration and express your eagerness to discuss further in an interview.

How Do You Say You Need a Change in Career?

When explaining your need for a career change, it’s essential to communicate your reasons in a positive and professional manner. Here are a few examples:

1. “I am eager to transition into an industry that better aligns with my professional interests and personal values.” 2. “I am seeking a new challenge that will enable me to leverage my skills and experience in a different context.” 3. “I have developed a strong interest in [target industry] and I am excited about the opportunity to apply my [transferable skills] in this new area.”

Avoid speaking negatively about your current or past industry or employers. Keep the focus on your professional growth and the opportunities that the career change offers.

Tips for Career Change Cover Letter

1. Highlight Transferable Skills: Identify the skills that are relevant to the new industry or role and provide examples that demonstrate these skills in action.

2. Show Passion: Demonstrate your enthusiasm and commitment for the new industry. Show that you are motivated and ready to transition.

3. Emphasize Soft Skills: Soft skills like communication, leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability are valuable in many fields.

4. Explain Your Reasons: Briefly explain why you’re making the change. Your reasons should be positive and focused on your future career growth.

5. Customize Your Cover Letter: Tailor each cover letter to the specific role and company. This shows the employer that you’ve done your research and understand what the role entails.

6. Address Any Gaps or Concerns: If you think the employer may have reservations about your application, address these proactively in your cover letter. Explain any gaps in employment or lack of direct experience in a positive way.

7. End Strongly: Finish your letter by summarizing why you’re a good fit for the role and expressing your enthusiasm for the opportunity to interview. This leaves a strong impression and propels the hiring manager to consider your application seriously.

Cover Letter Maker

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Write a cover letter for a college student applying for an internship at an educational technology company

Form a cover letter for a high school student seeking a part-time job at a local bookstore.

5 Tips for Changing Careers

1. Identify Your Why

When switching or exploring new careers, ask yourself why you want to do so in the first place. Perhaps you want to learn new skills, increase your earnings, or have more flexible hours. Take an inventory of your interests, core values, and skills. Your Ticket Program service provider can help. Below are some questions to get you started:

• What do you like and dislike about your current job?
• What are you looking for in a new field?
• Do you want to change industries or find a new type of job in the same field?
• Do you need new skills or education?

2. Make a Plan

After identifying your why, it’s time for you to make a plan. If you’re eligible , we recommend working with your Ticket Program service provider to develop an Individual Work Plan . This will help identify short, mid and long-range goals, and the steps and timeframes to achieve them.

Together, you’ll develop SMART goals related to your career change. Make sure they are S pecific, M easurable, A chievable, R ealistic, and T ime-bound. By using SMART goals tied to your career change, you can move toward the goal with the support of your employment team.

3. Build Your Network

Changing jobs may mean working within a new industry, and looking for a new job may take some time. While applying for jobs and waiting for interviews, networking can help you find new opportunities and show people you’d like to try something new.

Attending career fairs, alumni meet and greets, or reaching out to potential new companies for informational interviews helps you build professional relationships in the industry before you’ve even had your first day.

4. Update Your Resume

When you know what type of new work you’d like to try, it’s time to update your resume. How do you show the hiring manager you’re a good fit? Adjusting your resume can play an important role in your application process.

Not all resumes are equal, and creating one that highlights the transferable skills you have is an important tool for your career change. Take a look at this collection of tips and tools to help you write an updated resume.

Your position titles may not match the traditional path to your new career, but explaining how your skills could be applied to a new position may help you secure the next interview. For example, running an elementary school classroom takes strong, clear communication skills and exposes you to different types of computer programs. A mechanic understands attention to detail and rapid problem-solving skills. A nurse can work well under pressure and with a wide variety of personality types. Identify your soft and hard skills and make them shine in your resume.

5. Develop a Stand-out Cover Letter

And don't forget an important part of your job application: your cover letter ! To add more context to your skills and show what a great fit you are for the new position, customize your cover letter to focus on your experience. Your cover letter can take a lot of forms these days, but above all, it is your attention grabber. It shows how you stand out as a candidate and as a person. Bring your confidence and have faith in your own voice (though you should always have someone proofread!) It will help you find the right organization and people who are the best career change match for you.

How Can Ticket to Work Help?

To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability, call our TTY at 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. You can also learn more by registering for a free, online webinar . Or you can text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292 to receive Ticket Program texts. Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.

• Choosing A Provider (5)
• Events (76)
• Financial Independence (37)
• Find A Job (197)
• Government Programs (45)
• Podcasts (0)
• Service Provider Resources (12)
• Success on the Job (79)
• Success Stories (10)
• Ticket to Work (101)
• Work Incentives (13)
• Young Adults (11)