In any job hunt where you are changing careers
skillful drafting of the resume cover letter is a must. Almost without
exception a career change cover letter will accompany your resume. The
only exception is if you are applying for a job electronically-but even
there you can find a way to get your point across.
An effective
cover letter is often the deciding factor as to whether you are called
in for an interview. It is not necessarily read until you reach a short
list. Then it is vital to present a good career change cover letter, to
prove your skills and abilities along with writing and reporting
skills. It is a good idea to personalize each cover letter for each
employer. With word processing you can tailor the cover letter to
reflect what aspect of your experience and skills match what the
employer is looking for.
A career change cover letter must
concentrate on your skill base and expertise. The cover letter will
show all the necessary information to give the prospective employer a
specific idea of your ability and how your previous work experience
will fit the needs and requirements of the position.
The career
change cover letter should immediately catch the attention of the
prospective employer. The idea of the career change cover letter is to
give you a chance to prove your adaptability and give you a chance to
show good reason for changing your previous career field.
The
successful applicant will demonstrate in their career change cover
letter, their related experiences and skills in the new field of
employment. You will detail the relevant education for the new career
choice. Don't forget seminars attended, workshops completed and
relevant self-study.
The career change cover letter should
emphasize transferable skills from previous employment and other skills
and interests that will benefit the new career choice.
The career
change cover letter gives you an excellent opportunity to show how they
can contribute to the success of the newly considered company or
organization. It is in the cover letter that they can prove you are
keen to take on a new role.
At this stage of the career change
cover letter you should dwell on the company or employer you seek to
impress rather than on their own merits. Show that you are vital to the
future of the new industry, and impress them by their knowledge,
research and interest in the new position. This is a chance to
concentrate on the employer, and the job opening.
The cover
letter can show the new skills you will bring to the table, because of
your previous training and experience. Highlight the fact that
experience in diverse fields and careers can bring unique skills to the
prospective employer.
One other vital piece of information, if
appropriate at the job interview, if the employer has misgivings
because you do not have the required direct experience, is to offer to
work as a temporary employee until you have the required experience.
This offer can be reemphasized in your thank you letter that you send
after the interview.
Changing careers is always a challenge, but
if you do your research, carefully draft your cover letter, and remain
flexible you should find success in your search to start a new career.