Written Samples
15 sample cover letters for career change.
Are you feeling stuck in your current career and yearning for a change?
Transitioning to a new field can be an exciting yet challenging journey.
One of the most critical components of a successful career change is crafting a compelling cover letter that showcases your transferable skills and passion for your new chosen path.
Sample Cover Letters for Career Change
In this article, we present fifteen sample cover letters designed to inspire and guide you through the process of writing your career change cover letter.
From highlighting relevant experiences to expressing enthusiasm for new opportunities, these examples will help you make a strong case for your career transition.
Cover Letter 1: From Marketing to Education
Subject: Passionate Marketer Seeking Teaching Position
Dear Hiring Manager,
With five years of experience in marketing and a lifelong passion for education, I am excited to apply for the position of English Teacher at Oakwood High School. Throughout my marketing career, I have honed my communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, which I believe will translate seamlessly into the classroom setting.
In addition to my professional experience, I have spent the past two years volunteering as a tutor at my local community center, working with students of various ages and backgrounds. This experience has solidified my desire to pursue a career in education and make a positive impact on the lives of young learners.
I am confident that my unique combination of skills, experience, and passion for teaching will enable me to become a valuable member of the Oakwood High School faculty. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your school’s mission of providing exceptional education to every student.
Thank you for your consideration.
Cover Letter 2: From Finance to Non-Profit
Subject: Finance Professional Seeking Non-Profit Opportunity
As a finance professional with over a decade of experience in the corporate world, I have reached a point in my career where I am seeking to align my work with my values and make a meaningful difference in society. When I came across the Program Coordinator position at Habitat for Humanity, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to leverage my skills and experience for a cause I am truly passionate about.
Throughout my career in finance, I have developed strong project management, budgeting, and organizational skills, which I believe will be invaluable in coordinating Habitat for Humanity’s building projects and volunteer efforts. Additionally, my experience in data analysis and reporting will allow me to effectively track and communicate the impact of the organization’s work to stakeholders.
I am excited about the prospect of bringing my skills and enthusiasm to Habitat for Humanity and contributing to the organization’s mission of providing affordable housing to families in need. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my unique background and passion for social impact can benefit your team.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Cover Letter 3: From Healthcare to Technology
Subject: Healthcare Professional Transitioning to Tech
As a healthcare professional with seven years of experience in patient care and management, I have developed a keen interest in the intersection of healthcare and technology. The Product Manager position at MediTech Solutions presents an exciting opportunity for me to combine my healthcare background with my passion for innovation and problem-solving.
In my current role as a Nurse Manager, I have led cross-functional teams in implementing new patient care protocols and streamlining processes, resulting in improved patient outcomes and increased efficiency. These experiences have honed my ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, manage complex projects, and drive results, skills that I believe are directly transferable to the product management role.
Additionally, I have taken the initiative to expand my knowledge of the healthcare technology landscape through online courses and attending industry conferences. This self-driven learning has equipped me with a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the field, and I am eager to apply this knowledge to developing innovative solutions at MediTech Solutions.
I am confident that my unique combination of healthcare expertise and passion for technology will enable me to make valuable contributions to your product development team. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my skills and experiences can support MediTech Solutions’ mission of revolutionizing patient care through cutting-edge technology.
Sarah Johnson
Cover Letter 4: From Sales to Human Resources
Subject: Sales Professional Transitioning to HR
With ten years of experience in sales and a growing passion for people development, I am excited to apply for the Human Resources Generalist position at ABC Company. Throughout my sales career, I have consistently demonstrated strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to build and maintain relationships, which I believe are essential qualities for success in human resources.
In my current role as a Sales Manager, I have taken on increasing responsibilities in recruiting, onboarding, and mentoring new team members. These experiences have not only deepened my understanding of the employee lifecycle but also ignited my desire to make a full transition into the human resources field.
To further prepare for this career change, I have completed a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification program, which has provided me with a solid foundation in HR principles and best practices. I am eager to apply this knowledge and my transferable skills to support ABC Company’s talent management and employee engagement initiatives.
I am confident that my unique combination of sales experience, people skills, and HR education will enable me to make valuable contributions to your human resources team. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my background and passion for people development can support ABC Company’s goals and objectives.
Michael Brown
Cover Letter 5: From Engineering to Project Management
Subject: Engineer Seeking Project Management Role
As a mechanical engineer with eight years of experience in product development and cross-functional collaboration, I am excited to apply for the Project Manager position at XYZ Corporation. Throughout my engineering career, I have consistently demonstrated strong problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills, which I believe are directly transferable to the project management role.
In my current position as a Senior Mechanical Engineer, I have successfully led multi-disciplinary teams in delivering complex projects on time and within budget. These experiences have honed my ability to manage competing priorities, communicate effectively with stakeholders, and drive results, skills that are essential for success in project management.
Additionally, I have taken the initiative to expand my knowledge of project management methodologies and best practices through self-study and attending workshops. This ongoing learning has equipped me with a strong understanding of the tools and techniques used in effective project management, and I am eager to apply this knowledge to support XYZ Corporation’s project initiatives.
I am confident that my unique combination of engineering expertise, leadership skills, and passion for project management will enable me to make valuable contributions to your team. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my background and experience can support XYZ Corporation’s goals and objectives.
Emily Davis
Cover Letter 6: From Journalism to Public Relations
Subject: Journalist Transitioning to Public Relations
As a journalist with five years of experience in crafting compelling stories and engaging audiences, I am excited to apply for the Public Relations Specialist position at ABC Agency. Throughout my journalism career, I have honed my writing, research, and communication skills, which I believe are directly transferable to the public relations field.
In my current role as a Staff Writer for The Daily Times, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to identify newsworthy angles, conduct thorough research, and craft persuasive narratives that capture readers’ attention. These skills, combined with my strong media relationships and understanding of the ever-evolving digital landscape, position me well to succeed in a public relations role.
To further prepare for this career transition, I have completed a Professional Certificate in Public Relations, which has provided me with a solid foundation in PR strategies, crisis communication, and media relations. I am eager to apply this knowledge and my transferable skills to support ABC Agency’s clients in building and maintaining positive brand reputations.
I am confident that my unique combination of journalism experience, storytelling skills, and passion for public relations will enable me to make valuable contributions to your team. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my background and creative approach can support ABC Agency’s goals and objectives.
David Thompson
Cover Letter 7: From Customer Service to Event Planning
Subject: Customer Service Pro Seeking Event Planning Role
With seven years of experience in customer service and a passion for creating memorable experiences, I am excited to apply for the Event Coordinator position at XYZ Events. Throughout my customer service career, I have consistently demonstrated strong organizational, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills, which I believe are directly transferable to the event planning field.
In my current role as a Customer Service Supervisor, I have successfully led teams in managing high-volume customer inquiries, resolving complex issues, and ensuring customer satisfaction. These experiences have honed my ability to manage multiple tasks, communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, and maintain a keen attention to detail, skills that are essential for success in event planning.
Additionally, I have taken on increasing responsibilities in planning and executing employee engagement events and customer appreciation initiatives. These experiences have fueled my passion for event planning and deepened my understanding of the logistics and coordination required to bring successful events to life.
I am confident that my unique combination of customer service expertise, organizational skills, and enthusiasm for event planning will enable me to make valuable contributions to the XYZ Events team. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my background and creative approach can support your company’s mission of creating unforgettable experiences for clients.
Jennifer Wilson
Cover Letter 8: From Graphic Design to UX/UI Design
Subject: Graphic Designer Transitioning to UX/UI
As a graphic designer with five years of experience in creating visually compelling and user-friendly designs, I am excited to apply for the UX/UI Designer position at ABC Tech. Throughout my design career, I have consistently demonstrated strong problem-solving, collaboration, and user-centric thinking skills, which I believe are directly transferable to the UX/UI design field.
In my current role as a Senior Graphic Designer, I have successfully led design projects from concept to completion, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams to ensure that design solutions align with user needs and business objectives. These experiences have honed my ability to conduct user research, create wireframes and prototypes, and iterate based on user feedback, skills that are essential for success in UX/UI design.
To further prepare for this career transition, I have completed a UX/UI Design Bootcamp, which has provided me with hands-on experience in user research, information architecture, interaction design, and usability testing. I am eager to apply this knowledge and my transferable skills to create intuitive and engaging user experiences at ABC Tech.
I am confident that my unique combination of graphic design expertise, user-centric approach, and passion for UX/UI design will enable me to make valuable contributions to your product development team. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my background and creative problem-solving skills can support ABC Tech’s mission of creating innovative and user-friendly digital solutions.
Amanda Parker
Cover Letter 9: From Accounting to Data Analysis
Subject: Accountant Transitioning to Data Analysis
As an accountant with seven years of experience in financial analysis and reporting, I am excited to apply for the Data Analyst position at XYZ Corporation. Throughout my accounting career, I have consistently demonstrated strong analytical, problem-solving, and data visualization skills, which I believe are directly transferable to the data analysis field.
In my current role as a Senior Accountant, I have successfully led projects in financial modeling, forecasting, and data-driven decision-making. These experiences have honed my ability to collect, analyze, and interpret complex data sets, and communicate insights to stakeholders, skills that are essential for success in data analysis.
To further prepare for this career transition, I have completed a Data Science Certificate program, which has provided me with hands-on experience in statistical analysis, data mining, and machine learning. I am eager to apply this knowledge and my transferable skills to support XYZ Corporation’s data-driven initiatives and drive business growth.
I am confident that my unique combination of accounting expertise, analytical skills, and passion for data analysis will enable me to make valuable contributions to your data science team. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my background and data-driven approach can support XYZ Corporation’s mission of leveraging data to drive innovation and competitive advantage.
Robert Johnson
Cover Letter 10: From Operations to Consulting
Subject: Operations Manager Seeking Consulting Role
As an operations manager with ten years of experience in process improvement and change management, I am excited to apply for the Management Consultant position at ABC Consulting. Throughout my operations career, I have consistently demonstrated strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills, which I believe are directly transferable to the consulting field.
In my current role as an Operations Manager, I have successfully led cross-functional teams in implementing process improvements, driving operational efficiency, and managing organizational change. These experiences have honed my ability to analyze complex business challenges, develop data-driven solutions, and influence stakeholders, skills that are essential for success in consulting.
To further prepare for this career transition, I have completed an MBA program with a focus on strategy and management. This education has provided me with a strong foundation in business strategy, financial analysis, and leadership, and I am eager to apply this knowledge to help ABC Consulting’s clients solve their most pressing business challenges.
I am confident that my unique combination of operations expertise, strategic thinking, and passion for consulting will enable me to make valuable contributions to your team. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my background and problem-solving skills can support ABC Consulting’s mission of driving business transformation and growth for clients.
Elizabeth Thompson
Cover Letter 11: From Teaching to Instructional Design
Subject: Teacher Transitioning to Instructional Design
As a teacher with eight years of experience in curriculum development and student engagement, I am excited to apply for the Instructional Designer position at XYZ eLearning. Throughout my teaching career, I have consistently demonstrated strong content creation, instructional planning, and learner-centric thinking skills, which I believe are directly transferable to the instructional design field.
In my current role as a High School English Teacher, I have successfully designed and implemented engaging lesson plans, incorporated technology into the classroom, and differentiated instruction to meet diverse learner needs. These experiences have honed my ability to create effective learning experiences, align content with learning objectives, and assess learner performance, skills that are essential for success in instructional design.
To further prepare for this career transition, I have completed a Master’s degree in Instructional Design and Technology, which has provided me with a strong foundation in learning theories, instructional strategies, and eLearning development tools. I am eager to apply this knowledge and my transferable skills to create impactful and engaging learning solutions at XYZ eLearning.
I am confident that my unique combination of teaching expertise, instructional design skills, and passion for creating effective learning experiences will enable me to make valuable contributions to your team. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my background and learner-centric approach can support XYZ eLearning’s mission of delivering high-quality, engaging, and effective online learning solutions.
Sarah Davis
Cover Letter 12: From Social Work to Human Resources
Subject: Social Worker Transitioning to HR
As a social worker with six years of experience in case management and employee support, I am excited to apply for the Human Resources Coordinator position at ABC Company. Throughout my social work career, I have consistently demonstrated strong interpersonal, problem-solving, and advocacy skills, which I believe are directly transferable to the human resources field.
In my current role as an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Counselor, I have successfully provided support and resources to employees facing personal and professional challenges, facilitated training on stress management and work-life balance, and collaborated with HR teams to promote employee well-being. These experiences have honed my ability to build trust, maintain confidentiality, and navigate complex employee relations issues, skills that are essential for success in human resources.
To further prepare for this career transition, I have completed a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification program, which has provided me with a solid foundation in HR principles, employment laws, and best practices. I am eager to apply this knowledge and my transferable skills to support ABC Company’s talent management and employee engagement initiatives.
I am confident that my unique combination of social work expertise, employee support skills, and passion for human resources will enable me to make valuable contributions to your HR team. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my background and people-centric approach can support ABC Company’s mission of fostering a positive and productive work environment for all employees.
Michael Wilson
Cover Letter 13: From Marketing to Product Management
Subject: Marketer Transitioning to Product Management
As a marketing professional with seven years of experience in market research and product positioning, I am excited to apply for the Associate Product Manager position at XYZ Tech. Throughout my marketing career, I have consistently demonstrated strong analytical, strategic thinking, and cross-functional collaboration skills, which I believe are directly transferable to the product management field.
In my current role as a Senior Marketing Analyst, I have successfully led market research projects, conducted competitive analyses, and developed data-driven product positioning strategies. These experiences have honed my ability to identify customer needs, translate insights into actionable product recommendations, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring new products to market, skills that are essential for success in product management.
To further prepare for this career transition, I have completed a Product Management Certificate program, which has provided me with hands-on experience in product strategy, user research, agile methodologies, and product roadmap development. I am eager to apply this knowledge and my transferable skills to support XYZ Tech’s product innovation and growth objectives.
I am confident that my unique combination of marketing expertise, analytical skills, and passion for product management will enable me to make valuable contributions to your product development team. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my background and customer-centric approach can support XYZ Tech’s mission of delivering innovative and market-leading products.
Emily Johnson
Cover Letter 14: From Sales to Business Development
Subject: Sales Professional Transitioning to Business Development
As a sales professional with nine years of experience in relationship building and revenue generation, I am excited to apply for the Business Development Manager position at ABC Solutions. Throughout my sales career, I have consistently demonstrated strong communication, negotiation, and strategic thinking skills, which I believe are directly transferable to the business development field.
In my current role as a Senior Account Executive, I have successfully identified and pursued new business opportunities, developed and maintained key client relationships, and consistently exceeded revenue targets. These experiences have honed my ability to understand customer needs, develop value propositions, and drive successful partnerships, skills that are essential for success in business development.
To further prepare for this career transition, I have completed an Executive MBA program with a focus on strategy and entrepreneurship. This education has provided me with a strong foundation in market analysis, business strategy, and leadership, and I am eager to apply this knowledge to help ABC Solutions expand its market presence and drive long-term growth.
I am confident that my unique combination of sales expertise, relationship-building skills, and passion for business development will enable me to make valuable contributions to your team. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my background and growth-oriented approach can support ABC Solutions’ mission of delivering innovative solutions and driving client success.
Cover Letter 15: From Non-Profit to Corporate Social Responsibility
Subject: Non-Profit Leader Seeking CSR Role
As a non-profit leader with twelve years of experience in community outreach and program development, I am excited to apply for the Corporate Social Responsibility Manager position at XYZ Corporation. Throughout my non-profit career, I have consistently demonstrated strong project management, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning skills, which I believe are directly transferable to the corporate social responsibility field.
In my current role as an Executive Director of a community-based organization, I have successfully developed and implemented impactful social programs, forged strategic partnerships with businesses and government agencies, and driven measurable outcomes for the communities we serve. These experiences have honed my ability to align social impact initiatives with organizational goals, engage diverse stakeholders, and communicate the value of CSR programs, skills that are essential for success in corporate social responsibility.
To further prepare for this career transition, I have completed a Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility Certificate program, which has provided me with a strong understanding of CSR best practices, sustainability reporting, and stakeholder engagement strategies. I am eager to apply this knowledge and my transferable skills to support XYZ Corporation’s CSR initiatives and drive positive social and environmental impact.
I am confident that my unique combination of non-profit leadership experience, community engagement skills, and passion for corporate social responsibility will enable me to make valuable contributions to your CSR team. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss further how my background and purpose-driven approach can support XYZ Corporation’s mission of being a responsible and sustainable corporate citizen.
Jennifer Davis
Crafting a compelling career change cover letter requires showcasing your transferable skills, highlighting relevant experiences, and expressing your passion for your new chosen field.
By tailoring your cover letter to the specific requirements of the role and organization, you can demonstrate your unique value proposition and make a strong case for your career transition.
With the help of these fifteen sample cover letters, you are now well-equipped to take the next step in your career change journey and secure the job of your dreams.
- For Individuals
- For Businesses
- For Universities
- For Governments
- Online Degrees
- Join for Free
How to Write a Cover Letter When You’re Changing Careers (Sample + Tips)
As a career changer, you need to help recruiters understand why you’re moving away from your former line of work and what you want to achieve in your new career path..
You will inevitably change jobs throughout your career as you seek more responsibility, growth, or even a higher salary. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average employee stays at each job for around four years [ 1 ]. However, for career changers—or those interested in exploring an entirely new path or industry—making that switch can sometimes involve unique challenges.
Even so, making a career change has become an increasingly popular move. More than half of workers in the United States anticipated looking for a new opportunity in 2022 [ 2 ]. Changing careers can allow you to find more meaningful work, better align your career path with your larger goals, and move into a more energizing role.
When you draft your cover letter to apply for a job in a new line of work, you must take time to explain your larger objectives. In this article, we’ll review specific information you can feature in your cover letter to help recruiters understand your goals and reasons for changing careers.
Learn more: How to Plan for a Career Change: Step-by-Step Guide
How to write a career change cover letter
A cover letter is a chance to expand upon the bullet points outlined in your resume . It’s a space where you can explain your interest in the role and company, highlight your experience and skills, and sell a recruiter on the overall fit you’d make.
But a career changer needs to do all of that and more. You also need to help recruiters and hiring managers understand why you’re moving away from your former line of work, what you want to achieve in your new career path, and any transferable skills that will help make your transition smooth.
Let’s review four key pieces of information you can weave into your career change cover letter.
1. Clarify your career change context
Explaining why you’re interested in changing careers and how the role you’re applying to fits within your larger career aspirations can preemptively contextualize your story. Plan to include a career change objective somewhere in your cover letter, much like you would a resume objective to provide a summary of a person’s experience and goals. Don’t be afraid to build a sense of personality so recruiters can better connect you with your objective.
What this looks like: I’ve spent the last six years translating complex topics for various users as a technical writer. But in that time, I’ve realized that what drives me is the user’s experience. It’s the lightbulb moment behind my career change to UX design . I believe I’ll make a strong addition to your team because my work has largely put the user front and center, and now I’m interested in focusing on a different facet of that goal.
2. Specify the value of your certificates, courses, or trainings
It costs over $4,000 to hire an employee, according to the Society for Human Resources Management [ 3 ]. That’s all the more reason why recruiters and hiring managers want to find the right candidate. It can be costly otherwise. Help explain what you’ve done to prepare for your career change by highlighting any professional certificates or trainings you’ve completed to prepare you for your new line of work.
What this looks like: In order to familiarize myself with the tools and processes used in data analysis, I completed the Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate , which taught me SQL and R, and trained me to clean and visualize data. Thanks to this preparation, I feel confident that I will make a strong addition to your team from the very start.
3. Bring attention to your transferable skills
Transferable skills are “portable,” in that you take them from job to job. They include problem-solving, critical thinking, attention to detail, and more. Show recruiters that you have important skills to help you do the job so they can understand the unique value you’d bring to their company.
It can also help to find out the key technical skills the job requires and spend time learning what you can, especially when it comes to important software or tools.
What this looks like: As a software developer, I regularly relied on my problem-solving skills to think through complex issues. I’ll bring that same skill, as well as my attention to detail, listening, and decision-making, to ABC High School as the new algebra teacher.
4. Highlight your past achievements
Any time you can highlight what you’ve managed to accomplish in your past roles, you help a recruiter see your potential in a new role. Where possible, summarize any moments that showcase your strengths and illustrate your work ethic or character.
What this looks like: I pride myself on being a team player and a problem-solver. As a social media manager at Company X, I identified a better program to help my team schedule content. Using that tool improved my team’s efficacy, leading to our most successful quarter.
Why is a cover letter important when changing careers?
The idea of a career path can sometimes be rigid, suggesting that people only follow one specific track. Although that perspective is starting to shift, it’s still prevalent. You can help recruiters and hiring managers understand more about your interest in a role by explaining why you’re changing careers and what you’ve done to streamline your transition.
It helps to align your cover letter with a resume objective, which can be especially useful for career changers. An objective on your resume is a place where you can contextualize your larger career aims, quickly summarizing what you’re hoping to achieve in your next role. Repeat that same information in your cover letter and expand on it slightly to give your application materials more cohesiveness.
Read more: How to Use Resume Sections to Shape Your Professional Story
Build job-ready skills with a Coursera Plus subscription
- Get access to 10,000+ learning programs from world-class universities and companies, including Google, Yale, Salesforce, and more
- Try different courses and find your best fit at no additional cost
- Earn certificates for learning programs you complete
- A subscription price of $59/month, cancel anytime
Career change cover letter sample
It's common practice nowadays to submit your cover letter digitally. In that case, include some of your contact information in the top left corner so recruiters can easily see how to get in touch.
Thomas Bennett
Nashville, TN
(555) 555-1234
Dear Ms. Tufte,
I’m writing to apply for the project manager role at Company X. I initially began my career as a marketing coordinator and eventually moved into email marketing , where I was responsible for strategizing and developing new campaigns. But in that time, I realized how much I thrived when managing our quarterly campaigns from start to finish. That’s why I’m interested in segueing into project management.
Knowing that, despite my experience, I still needed to learn more specifically about project management, I completed the Google Project Management Professional Certificate . Over six months, I’ve learned Agile project management as well as how to create product documentation, among other key skills. I believe this training, along with my previous experience, will help me transition to a project management role at Company X and make a big impact.
I’m an organized problem-solver with a sharp eye for detail, all important project management skills. I believe my previous work in email marketing provided hands-on training in managing projects, albeit without the official title. I identified new tools to help my team create more effective quarterly campaigns. As a result, we increased our click-through rate (one of our key metrics) to 1.87 percent, bringing it closer to the industry standard—an immense achievement.
I’m proud of the foundation I gained through marketing, but in realizing where my true passion lies, I’m keen to transition into a project management role with more growth opportunities. I appreciate your consideration.
Tips for strengthening your cover letter
Much like you would for a standard cover letter, you can strengthen your cover letter as a career changer using the following tips:
Tailor your letter for each role.
You should tailor your resume for each role you apply to, and the same goes for your cover letter. Research the company, find out about aspects of their work that interest you, and insert those details into your cover letter. You should also tailor your experience and skills, highlighting each job's most relevant skills and accomplishments.
Get specific.
Your cover letter should expand upon your resume rather than repeating the same information. One way to do this is by giving details about your past achievements. When possible, quantify your impact with numbers and explain how these accomplishments make you uniquely qualified for this new role.
Use action words.
Build action words into your resume and your cover letter. Rather than more staid words that don’t capture your unique story or responsibilities, action verbs can liven up your cover letter and make it more enticing to read. Find verbs that succinctly and accurately depict your previous experience.
Start advancing your skills today
Brush up on your cover letter writing skills by taking the University of Maryland’s free course, Writing Winning Resumes and Cover Letters . Or develop important skills for an in-demand career with a Professional Certificate from industry leaders like Google, Meta, and IBM. Most certificate programs take less than seven months to complete, and you can start for free with a seven-day, all-access trial.
Article sources
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. “ Employee Tenure in 2020 , https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/tenure.pdf.” Accessed April 26, 2024.
CNBC. “ The Great Resignation is Likely to Continue , https://www.cnbc.com/2021/08/25/great-resignation-55-percent-are-looking-to-change-jobs-over-the-next-year-.html.” Accessed April 26, 2024.
ADP. “ Calculating the True Cost to Hire Employees , https://www.adp.com/spark/articles/2019/07/calculating-the-true-cost-to-hire-employees.aspx.” Accessed April 26, 2024.
Keep reading
Coursera staff.
Editorial Team
Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact...
This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.
Build my resume
- Build a better resume in minutes
- Resume examples
- 2,000+ examples that work in 2025
- Resume templates
- 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 2025
- 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
Copy this text for your Career Change cover letter!
123 Fictional Avenue Tucson, AZ 85743 (123) 456-7890
June 15, 2025
Ingrid Persson Comcast 123 Fictional Lane Tucson, AZ 85743
Dear Ms. Persson:
As a sales manager, I was often told that my natural skillset was more aligned with marketing. While my passion for understanding consumers helped me excel in sales, I’ve always been fascinated by marketing. When I began to manage paid advertising campaigns at Oracle, my interest in marketing was confirmed. My initiative not only increased sales by 28%, but also honed my skills in a cornerstone of marketing: data-driven decision-making.
Comcast’s people-first approach to marketing resonates with my interest in consumer behavior. In my five years as a sales manager, I specialized in analyzing user data to understand the needs of our buyers. I used my proficiency in Google Analytics to monitor website traffic and optimize our marketing strategies. My analytical approach contributed to a 34% increase in conversion rates and a 26% boost in customer retention over two years.
Transitioning to a marketing manager feels like a natural progression, as it combines my experience in sales with my passion for designing targeted campaigns. At Oracle, I bridged the gap between sales and marketing to increase ROI by 29%. I feel confident that I can successfully do the same with my career.
Comcast’s customer-centric culture reflects my core values. I am excited about the prospect of combining my analytical skills and sales experience to develop data-driven marketing strategies for the company. My instinct for buyer behavior will allow me to contribute to Comcast’s continued growth.
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.
Amara Kamau
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.
Pair Your Cover Letter with a Matching Career Change Resume
or download as PDF
Level up your cover letter game
Relax! We’ll do the heavy lifting to write your cover letter in seconds.
Career Change No Experience Cover Letter Example
Copy this text for your Career Change No Experience cover letter!
123 Fictional Avenue Memphis, TN 38101 (123) 456-7890
Henry Robinson Walmart 123 Fictional Lane Memphis, TN 38101
Dear Mr. Robinson:
Like a data analyst unveiling patterns that inform business decisions, I seek to transition my career to the sales and marketing manager role at Walmart. Your dedication to delivering remarkable customer experiences profoundly resonates with me, and I believe my analytical acumen could lend a significant advantage to your team.
As the lead data analyst at Sedgwick, I spearheaded a team that scrutinized vast data sets, using sophisticated tools like Excel to analyze patterns and infer decks. Our analysis informed marketing decisions that spiked product sales by an average of 17%. My role called for early notification of discrepancies and proposing solutions, leading to a 66% reduction in inconsistency cases across our spreadsheets.
Project management was a significant part of my responsibilities at Innova Memphis. I led three major product launch campaigns, employing strategic analysis, coordination, and communication skills. The result? A marked 36% improvement in project completion timelines. These instances heightened my ability in advanced problem-solving, making me a better marketing and sales strategist.
As an intermediate data analyst at CrossCom, I deepened my skills in problem-solving, working with intricate amounts of data and changing project requirements. Besides sharpening my adaptability, I remember one time when I dug into an issue that led to uncovering a substantial cost-saving opportunity, saving the company 3% in operational costs yearly.
My decade serving as a data analyst has ideally placed me for this sales and marketing manager role. As someone who has picked insights from raw data to inform successful marketing decisions and sales strategies, I’m convinced I’m a great fit for this position. Looking forward to discussing how my unique skills could contribute to hitting Walmart’s marketing and sales goals.
- 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
Copy this text for your Human Resources Career Change cover letter!
Abigail Clark Wells Fargo 123 Fictional Lane Baltimore, MD 21201 Dear Ms. Clark:
After investing a decade navigating the complexities of human resource management, I’m excited to redirect my professional compass toward the role of a bank manager at Wells Fargo. With the belief that my extensive HR experience equips me with unique vantage points and skills, I’m convinced it has set the perfect foreground for my successful transition into this leadership role.
As a senior HR manager at Truist Bank, my extensive experience entailed gleaning insights from employees’ concerns and suggestions, driving improvements that lowered annual employee turnover by 9%. Now, onto change management; my comprehensive planning and seamless execution of transitions led to the smooth adoption of three major technological upgrades across different departments.
My stint as an HR Specialist at Jhpiego exposed me to the compliance and regulation stream, where I ensured organizational activities adhered to labor laws and corporate policies. The result was a drastic 42% decrease in compliance-related lapses, reflecting the proficiency I’d bring to Wells Fargo.
Starting my career as an HR coordinator at SECU Credit Union, my noteworthy contribution involved instituting a modern, streamlined payroll system that improved efficiency by 27%. It was here that my affinity for numbers found its use in the finance industry, thus, envisioning a future as a Bank Manager.
Transitioning from HR to bank management might seem unusual, but I see it as leveraging my people managerial skills, my understanding of corporate regulations, and my passion for the financial sector to ensure seamless operations at Wells Fargo. I’m excited about discussing how my unique background could positively impact your team.
Zara Jafari
- 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
Copy this text for your Teacher Career Change cover letter!
123 Fictional Avenue Miami, FL 33326 (123) 456-7890
Nala Dlamini Ultimate Software 123 Fictional Lane Miami, FL 33326
Dear Ms. Dlamini,
Math is the foundation for software engineering, which is exactly why I am excited to bring my background as a high school math teacher to Ultimate Software. I am drawn to the problem-solving challenge software engineering presents.
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%.
Ultimate Software’s dedication to building better workplaces through technology resonates with my passion for facilitating seamless collaboration. My teaching background has refined my ability to communicate complex ideas in an accessible manner. This, coupled with my technical skills, positions me uniquely as a bridge between non-technical stakeholders and development teams.
I am also excited to optimize data handling processes at Ultimate Software. My experience in gradebook management taught me the importance of strong data management systems, and I am eager to bring that perspective to the team.
I hope to discuss how my transition from a math teacher to a software engineer can bring value to Ultimate Software. Thank you so much for your time and consideration.
Sofia Lopez
Enclosures: Resume Portfolio AWS Certified Developer Google Cloud Certified
- 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
Copy this text for your Registered Nurse (RN) Career Change cover letter!
123 Fictional Avenue Phoenix, AZ 76208 (123) 456-7890
Sven Jonsson American Express 123 Fictional Lane Phoenix, AZ 76208
Dear Mr. Jonsson:
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.
American Express’s commitment to excellence matches my standards as an RN, where attention to detail and customer service were critical. I was often the first point of contact for patients and families. Through tireless care and empathy, patient satisfaction scores increased by 37% during my tenure. Outside of nursing, I also developed an interest in sales. I became proficient in sales forecasting and the HubSpot CRM software in order to better manage professional relationships.
My passion for helping clients was honed by providing both clinical care and wellness product recommendations to my patients as an RN. This role demanded excellent communication skills, empathy, and an understanding of individual needs—skills that are all transferable to sales.
I also bring an innate ability to manage sales territories. In partnership with community health programs, I coordinated regional patient care to ensure appropriate allocation of resources and seamless delivery. This experience equipped me with the acumen necessary to handle sales calls, and I aim to leverage that skill to expand American Express’s reach.
I am excited to align my passion for building relationships and providing exceptional service with American Express’s mission. As a sales manager, I will employ my skills in sales forecasting, CRM, and territory management to foster growth and customer satisfaction. Thank you for considering my application. I hope to discuss how my RN background can uniquely contribute to American Express’s continued success.
Gabriel Costa
- 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!
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:
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!
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.
Daring Leadership Institute: a groundbreaking partnership that amplifies Brené Brown's empirically based, courage-building curriculum with BetterUp’s human transformation platform.
What is Coaching?
Types of Coaching
Discover your perfect match : Take our 5-minute assessment and let us pair you with one of our top Coaches tailored just for you.
Find your coach
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
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.
Ace your job search
Explore effective job search techniques, interview strategies, and ways to overcome job-related challenges. Our coaches specialize in helping you land your dream job.
Elizabeth Perry, ACC
Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.
How to write a job application email that gets a reply
Chronological resume: how and why to write one, 3 cover letter examples to help you catch a hiring manager’s attention, resume best practices: how far back should a resume go, land a promotion: prepare for these internal interview questions, how to choose a career: 7 things to consider, character references: 4 tips for a successful recommendation letter, how to write a great cover letter in 2025: tips and structure, unique skills for resumes to attract attention, a guide on how to pick a new career, how to change careers: 5 ways to make the leap more doable, how to close a cover letter (with 25+ eye-catching examples), getting a new manager how to (stop panicking and) make the most of it, how & when to write a resignation letter (with samples), 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®
- BetterUp AI Coaching
- Sales Performance
- Diversity & Inclusion
- Case studies
- ROI of BetterUp
- What is coaching?
- About Coaching
- Find your Coach
- Career Coaching
- Communication Coaching
- Personal Coaching
- News and Press
- Leadership Team
- Become a BetterUp Coach
- Content library
- BetterUp Briefing
- Center for Purpose & Performance
- Leadership Training
- Business Coaching
- Contact Support
- Contact Sales
- Privacy Policy
- Acceptable Use Policy
- Trust & Security
- Cookie Preferences
Navigating the Transition: Tips and Tricks for Writing a Cover Letter for a Career Change (with Examples)
by Anabelle Weissinger
Aug 14, 2023 | Career Change
A high-quality cover letter is one of the strongest tools you can arm yourself with for a successful career change. When faced with job descriptions that seek specific industry experience, it can be easy to get discouraged from taking the leap in a new direction. However, a carefully written resume and cover letter will bridge the gap between how your past experience applies to your new objective.
While your resume needs to be updated with your professional experience and applicable education (which we can give you a hand with through a free resume critique ), it can’t fully explain why you’re eager and prepared to take on a role in a new industry.
Your cover letter is your opportunity to share your passion for your objective field and highlight how the experience you’ve gained supports this goal. While a resume functions as something of a highlight reel of your most relevant skills and professional experiences, your cover letter is your chance to let your personality shine through. By adding important context that can’t be conveyed in the resume, you can show recruiters why you are a good fit for both the industry and their company culture.
Photo by Jens Lelie on Unsplash
The main challenge in writing a cover letter for switching careers is exhibiting your skills and experience in a way that is relevant to your career objective. It isn’t enough to explain what you did in your past roles, you need to explain how you did it, why you did it that way, and what the overall impact was.
Companies are looking for game changers and innovators, so show them how you’ve made a difference throughout your unique skill set.
It’s scary to put yourself out there in a new field, especially when you’re up against candidates who have been in the industry much longer than you. But don’t let the jargon on job descriptions and the expertise of others discourage you. You’re likely much more qualified than you think you are.
You have a unique skill set, a strong drive to start a new journey, and expert writers on your side who can even look over your resume for free before you apply.
It’s important to be intentional when writing a career transition cover letter. These documents can show recruiters and hiring managers the value of your skills and work experience, but you need to pay close attention to the job requirements and your most transferable skills to be successful.
So, before we go into how to write the cover letter, let’s discuss how to set yourself up for success through research and preparation.
How to prepare for writing a cover letter for switching careers
Before you even begin typing up your cover letter, do your research . Do a deep dive into your target industry to find out what’s expected of professionals in that sector. Consider the education level, skill set, and constitution required, and then compare your experience to see what you should highlight.
After you’ve looked at the overall industry, look up the company you’re most excited about applying to and analyze what they’re looking for in an applicant. You can do this by reading its open job descriptions and about pages. This will make it easier to identify your most valuable skills, and give you an idea of the expectations hiring managers in the field will have.
Preparing ahead of time will help you identify key industry-specific qualifications, and can help you improve your chances by seeking out licenses and certifications that can increase your relevant experience.
When you refresh your documents for your job search, the first thing you should do is determine your specific strengths. Then, think about how they apply to the target industry. For example, you may be a fantastic project manager with a history of leading cross-functional teams that exceed anticipated revenue. It doesn’t matter what industry you’re coming from or going to – that’s extremely valuable to any employer.
You can easily integrate these experiences into your cover letter as strong examples of your proficiencies in action, and you can leverage them further by communicating your excitement to apply these transferable skills to the target industry or company mission.
Photo by Thought Catalog on Unsplash
How to structure a cover letter for switching careers
The structure of your cover letter is nearly as important as the content itself. Without clear formatting that prioritizes the most valuable skills for your career change, you may end up burying the lead.
Introduction
The opening paragraph is the most important part of a cover letter for switching careers. Right out of the gate you need to grab the reader’s attention and state your intention to change careers. This clearly communicates the context of your experience, and shows that you have a different background than other applicants.
For example, if you were transitioning from higher education administration to finance, you may write:
With a six-year history of meticulous administrative work in higher education, I have fine-tuned my skills to manage budgets and payroll effectively. Recently, I expanded my competencies, earning a certificate in financial analysis, fueling my passion for strategic fiscal management. I am excited to leverage this combination of practical experience and newfound knowledge to significantly contribute as a Finance Manager at [company].
Or perhaps you are making the switch from marketing to software development:
With a solid background in marketing, combined with my recent, rigorous training in software development, I possess a unique blend of skills that foster innovative and effective solutions. As a continuous learner, I have adapted my critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, gained in the fast-paced marketing environment, to mastering programming languages and software engineering principles, eager to bring a fresh perspective to your software development team.
Once you’ve drafted a strong introductory paragraph, it’s time to move into the meat of the letter.
Body paragraphs
The body paragraphs are your opportunity to explain your transferable skills and experiences in greater detail. The most effective way to do this is to provide specific accomplishments. You need to back up your claims of your skills with examples of how you used them in your current and previous roles – and what the results were.
Your transferable skills, above all, should be relevant. You need to clearly show why these skills are an asset to the company and how you’ve successfully applied them throughout your career.
For example, it wouldn’t be effective for the job seeker from the previous example moving from marketing to back-end software development to highlight skills in advertising or content creation. Instead, they can champion their empathetic verbal and written communication style, and back it up with examples of improved team collaboration leading to campaign success as a result of this skill. And of course, they should tie in any technical skills used as well.
I have honed my expertise in written and verbal communication, strategic planning, and team coordination over the past five years while leading my marketing team. Recently, I’ve focused on leveraging these skills in the realm of software development, enhancing my technical knowledge to match my proven communication capabilities. I developed and led a cross-functional project at XYZ Corporation, which involved using Python to automate and optimize the marketing data analysis process, resulting in a 35% reduction in time spent on data processing and a 20% increase in marketing campaign efficiency.
After you’ve communicated your most valuable transferable skills with practical experience, you can move into your closing paragraph.
This is your final chance to tell the hiring manager or recruiter why you’re excited to work with them and how you can support the overall company mission. You should reiterate your enthusiasm and interest honestly, but professionally.
For example:
In summary, I am truly passionate about the logistics and supply chain industry, and I look forward to the opportunity to apply my extensive experience in operations management to drive success for your company.
Photo by Sweet Life on Unsplash
Considerations when tailoring a cover letter for your career change
Focus on the future.
Overall, it’s important to remember to customize your cover letter to the target industry. While you honed these transferable skills in your previous line of work, you’ll increase your chances of getting the interview if you make sure to show how you will apply them to the new environment.
Additionally, tailoring your cover letter for the target industry shows your knowledge and understanding of the target field. Without adjusting your skills and experience for the specific context, your letter may come off as vague or uninformed, which likely won’t inspire confidence in a hiring manager or recruiter.
For example, if you’re a teacher who wants to leave education for another industry, you need to show how your work in group leadership and operations management can be applied to a new challenge:
I am passionate about mentoring people and leading organizations to achieve their full potential, and my previous experience as a teacher has honed my skills in communication and proactive problem solving. Whether it is breaking down complex, technical topics into layman’s terms or identifying potential areas for operational growth, I am committed to fostering a balanced work environment.
What to say if you don’t have a lot of experience
Finally, one of the biggest challenges in writing a career change cover letter is determining how and when to acknowledge your lack of direct experience. Never be self-deprecating – you need to have confidence in yourself if you want employers to be confident in you too.
Approach it from a “glass half full” perspective. Instead of focusing on what you don’t have, concentrate on what you do. Your passion and drive to make it in this new field, the certifications or training you’ve completed, or your industry-related independent research and projects, are a much better use of page space than trying to explain why you don’t have certain experience.
While I am just beginning my career journey in [industry], my diverse skill set and proven adaptability provide a strong foundation for rapid learning and effective contribution. I have consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for continuous learning in my previous roles, and I am eager to apply these transferable skills and my keen interest in [industry] to the [specific role] at [company]. I am confident my unique perspective, commitment, and drive can bring value to your team, and I am excited about the opportunity to learn and grow with your organization.
Creating a cover letter for switching careers
There are a lot of steps to creating a well-structured cover letter for switching careers. It requires self reflection, analysis, and research. You need to be honest and intentional without misrepresenting yourself or undermining your skill set. If you need assistance through the process, don’t be afraid to ask for help .
It’s no easy feat to change careers, especially if you’ve been moving in one direction for a long time. But we’re confident that as long as you prepare yourself with industry-focused research, highlight your transferable skills, and tailor your documents for each position, you’ll be able to successfully transition into your dream field.
Ready for more job search help?
Sign up for a free Senior Writer Resume Critique to see what’s holding you back from landing interviews. One of our top professional resume writers will give you personalized feedback on the top 3 items you can improve based on our expert practices!
GET A FREE CRITIQUE
Browse Job Search Categories
- Resume Tips
- Industry-Specific Resume Examples
- Resume Service
- Career Change
- Cover Letters
- Career Advancement
- Job Search Strategy
- Interview Tips
- Let’s Eat, Grandma Team & Events
Similar Articles
Investing $1K for a $55K Return: A Transformative Career Journey
What if you could spend $1K today and see a $55K return in just two years? This is the story of someone who did just that.
How to Address a Layoff on Your Resume and Cover Letter
How to highlight your strengths, explain employment gaps, and present a confident narrative to potential employers in your resume.
How to Transition to a New Industry: Skills Translation & Networking
If you’re making a career change, you don’t have to start from scratch. Learn how to translate your skills and network to transition to a new industry here.
Do you want more interviews?
More interviews. Job search progress. Career happiness.
IMAGES
COMMENTS
Jul 31, 2023 · Your cover letter should demonstrate why you’re a great candidate and how your skills and background have equipped you with a unique and valuable perspective. In this article, you’ll find out how to write an eye-catching career change cover letter that could help you land a job in a new field.
Mar 1, 2024 · Here’s your step-by-step guide to writing a career change cover letter that’ll tell your unique story and help a hiring manager envision how you would benefit their organization.
Aug 3, 2024 · Crafting a compelling career change cover letter requires showcasing your transferable skills, highlighting relevant experiences, and expressing your passion for your new chosen field.
Apr 2, 2024 · In career transitions, your cover letter is your storyteller. It explains the why and the how of your career change, showcasing your enthusiasm and demonstrating how your background equips you...
May 1, 2024 · When you draft your cover letter to apply for a job in a new line of work, you must take time to explain your larger objectives. In this article, we’ll review specific information you can feature in your cover letter to help recruiters understand your goals and reasons for changing careers.
Aug 28, 2024 · The biggest challenge for a career change cover letter is showing how your current role aligns with your target position. Think of times you’ve collaborated with the team you want to join, and offer them as examples of your direct experience.
A cover letter for a career change is your opportunity to explain why your transferable skills and past experience make you the perfect applicant.
Oct 9, 2024 · Check out our career change cover letter example and tips below to learn how to write a cover letter that convinces hiring managers that you’re the best fit for the job. Our free-to-use cover letter builder can make you a cover letter in as little as 5 minutes. Just pick the template you want, and our software will format everything for you.
Feb 20, 2024 · We provide resources below to make your career change cover letter writing process easier and help you prove to employers you’d be an excellent hire. If you’re ready to move on from your current job and pursue a different career path, you’re not the only one.
Aug 14, 2023 · How to structure a cover letter for switching careers. The structure of your cover letter is nearly as important as the content itself. Without clear formatting that prioritizes the most valuable skills for your career change, you may end up burying the lead. Introduction. The opening paragraph is the most important part of a cover letter for ...