Shifting careers is a daunting experience, whether it is by choice or because of circumstances. The fear and panic can be overwhelming, but understanding the reason for the change can help manage these emotions. It is crucial to identify the transferable skills you have that are relevant to the job or industry you are pursuing. A well-written resume that showcases these skills and how they match the job description can increase your chances of success in a career change.

To prepare your mind before working on your resume, you should start by knowing your ‘why’. Research the industry or career you are considering and conduct informational interviews with people in those fields. Ask questions to get clarity on what your ideal work environment looks like, what skills you enjoy using the most, what you dislike about your current job, and what inspires you about other people’s careers.

Identifying your transferable skills is the next step. The experience and skills you have acquired in your current job or other areas of your life may not directly match the new job description. However, by focusing on the skills that are relevant to the new job, you can bridge the gap and demonstrate to the employer that you have the experience and skills required for the role.

Reading the job posting carefully is crucial to understanding the specific qualifications and skills required for the job. Use similar language to the job description in your resume to demonstrate that you understand the company’s requirements and show how your experience matches those requirements. Make sure your resume is clear, concise and well-structured.

The following are the five key sections that your career change resume should include:

1. Contact Information and Header
Create a letterhead that includes your contact information, such as your name, email address, and phone number. Ensure that your LinkedIn profile is updated and credible.

2. Qualification Highlights or Summary
Use the language of the job posting and your transferable skills to show that you are qualified for the role. Keep this section brief, using three to four bullet points that highlight your relevant qualifications for the specific job.

3. Work Experience
List only the experiences that are relevant to the job posting, and focus on your transferable skills and how they apply to the new role. Use one to four bullet points to describe your relevant experiences in each job.

4. Education
List your formal education, including the name of the degrees you received and the school that awarded them.

5. Other Activities or Interests
List any other experiences that are relevant to your new career path, such as volunteer work or community involvement.

It is important to remember that each bullet point in your resume should use the Context Action Result (CAR) method. Ensure that there is enough white space on your resume, and use a modern Sans Serif font. It is best to tailor your resume for each job posting by adjusting the language and key words according to the job description.

In conclusion, shifting careers can be an intimidating experience, but it can be made less stressful by understanding why you want to make the change, identifying your transferable skills, and preparing an effective resume. Keep in mind that your resume should align with the specific job posting, be clear and concise, and showcase your relevant experience and skills. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of success in a career change.