How To Write A Cover Letter For A Job Or Industry Change
At some point in your life, you will want a change of scenery. Right now, you’re probably thinking about changing industries, am I right? If you are then this post is for you.
Many years ago I was stuck in a job in the finance industry, with very little upward mobility or even basic enjoyment. I decided that it was time to not only leave but change industries altogether. One of the things I had to do before taking the leap over that chasm was to write a cover letter for a new job.
Whether you're looking for an industry change or just not happy with your current job, then you’ll need a cover letter to make a good first impression. A cover letter is your chance to showcase your skills, personality and motivation for a new role, at a new company. It's an opportunity to explain why you're interested in making the switch.
Here are a few tips on writing a cover letter for a job or industry change.
Research The Industry and the Company
Before you start writing your cover letter, it's important to do your research. Research the industry you're trying to break into – find out what skills and qualifications you need. Then do a self-assessment to see if you actually have these skills. If not, determine whether you need to take a course to acquire them.
Besides researching the industry, you’ll also want to look up the company you're applying to. Find information about its values, culture and mission statement. This will not only help you brush up on the required skills but also give you an edge during the interviewing process.
Start With A Strong Introduction
The first paragraph of your cover letter should grab the HR manager's attention and make them want to read more. If you lose their interest in your opening lines, then it doesn’t matter how amazing the rest of your letter is.
Start by telling them why you're writing, how you found out about the job opening, and what makes you excited to work for the company. It’s a good idea to mention a personal connection or a referral if you have one.
Highlight Your Transferable Skills and Experience
The biggest concern when making a career change is how to convey your relevant skills and experiences to the new industry. The good news is that many skills and experiences are transferable.
For example, let's say you're currently in HR and want to transition to marketing. Your project management, communication, and problem-solving skills will definitely come in handy.
Give examples of how your skills and experience served you well in your current or past roles. Provide numbers or data where possible. This will show the hiring manager that you're not starting from scratch, but bringing a valuable skillset to the table.
Be sure to update your CV to reflect your relevant skills and experience. It’s no use painting a great picture of yourself in your cover letter but then not backing it up in your resume.
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Explain Why You Want To Make This Change
The third paragraph of your cover letter should address why you're looking for a new job and why you're interested in working for the new company. Be honest and positive about your reasons. Avoid criticizing your current or previous employers. Nobody wants to hire someone who bad-mouths their bosses to other bosses.
Why do you want to make the switch? What draws you to their company or industry? Maybe you're looking for a new challenge, or you feel your skills are better suited to a different industry. Whatever your reasons, show that you've thought long and hard about your decision and that you are 100% committed to it.
Display your enthusiasm and passion for the new role. The more excited you are about the opportunity, the more likely the hiring manager will be too.
For example, you could say something like, "I'm looking for a new challenge and an opportunity to grow my skills in the healthcare sector. I have a strong background in data analysis and project management, which I know are essential for this role".
End With A Call To Action
Last but not least, you want to end your cover letter with a strong call to action. In the last paragraph of your cover letter, thank the reader for their time and consideration.
Be clear on what you want the hiring manager to do next. For example, say something along the lines of, "I would love to talk more about how I can contribute to your organization. I look forward to hearing from you soon".
By doing this, you're demonstrating your interest and enthusiasm for the opportunity. Plus, it gives the hiring manager a clear path to follow if they're intrigued by your application.
A Cover Letter Example
And now, the moment you’ve been waiting for. Here is a sample of a good cover letter for a job or industry change:
Hello [Insert the contact person’s name]
I am excited to apply for the [position/role] at [company]. I'm an experienced [your current job title] and I'm eager to explore new opportunities in a different industry. My skills and experience align well with the requirements of the role.
Throughout my career, I have gained valuable experience in [list your specific skills or areas of expertise]. While I enjoyed my time in my current role, I want to apply these skills in a new context and learn from new challenges.
My adaptability, creativity and strong work ethic will enable me to contribute to the success of your team.
I am passionate about [give the specific industry or your area of interest]. I have been following your company and I am impressed by your commitment to [specific mission or values that appeal to you]. The prospect of joining an organization that shares my values excites me.
Thank you for considering my application. Get in touch with me to discuss my qualifications and how I can be of value to your company. I look forward to hearing from you.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Final Thoughts
Writing a cover letter for a job or industry change doesn't have to be daunting. As long as you do your research, and highlight transferable skills and experiences, you’ll do just fine. So go ahead and write the perfect cover letter that lands you the job of your dreams. Good luck!
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Meet The Writer!
Greetings. My name is Edwin Kannemeyer (or just Ed or Edi). I’m a freelance writer, living the write-life to the fullest. Currently, I lay my pen down in the self-improvement niche, with a focus on working parents. Helping people work from home and live happy, fulfilling lives is my goal as a writer. I would love to hear from you, so get in touch with me on LinkedIn or edikannemeyer@gmail.com
