A strong career change cover letter highlights your transferable skills and explains your motivation for switching paths. You want to connect your past experience to the new role you’re seeking. This shows employers how you’ll add value, even without direct industry experience. In this article you will find effective cover letter examples and templates can guide you in crafting your own. With the right approach, you can convince hiring managers to take a chance on you in your new career.
Your career change cover letter helps employers see past job titles and focus on your transferable skills.
Career Change Cover Letter Templates and Examples
Template 1:
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I’m excited to apply for the [Position] role at [Company]. While my background is in [Current Field], I’ve developed skills in [Relevant Skill 1] and [Relevant Skill 2] that translate well to [New Field].
[Give a brief example of how you’ve used these skills]
I’m eager to bring my unique perspective to [Company] and contribute to [specific company goal or project].
Best regards, [Your Name]
Example for Template 1:
Dear Ms. Johnson,
I’m excited to apply for the Marketing Coordinator role at TechNow. While my background is in teaching, I’ve developed skills in communication and data analysis that translate well to marketing.
I’ve created engaging lesson plans and analyzed student performance data to improve outcomes. These skills will help me craft compelling marketing messages and measure campaign effectiveness.
I’m eager to bring my unique perspective to TechNow and contribute to your upcoming product launch.
Best regards,
Jamie Smith
Template 2:
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I’m writing to express my interest in the [Position] role at [Company]. I’m making a career change from [Current Field] to [New Field] because [brief explanation of your motivation].
[Highlight a relevant accomplishment or experience]
I’m excited about the opportunity to [contribute to a specific aspect of the role or company].
Thank you for your consideration, [Your Name]
Example for Template 2:
Dear Mr. Johnson,
I’m writing to express my interest in the Graphic Designer role at Visionary Creative. I’m making a career change from teaching to graphic design because I’ve always been drawn to the power of visual communication and its ability to inspire and engage people.
As a hobby, I’ve designed logos and marketing materials for several small businesses in my community, receiving praise for my creativity and attention to detail.
I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to Visionary Creative’s mission of helping brands stand out through innovative and impactful design.
Thank you for your consideration,
Emily Davis
Template 3:
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am excited to apply for the [Position] role at [Company]. Although my background is in [Current Field], I am confident that my skills and experiences are transferable to [New Field].
In my current role as [Current Job Title], I have developed [relevant skills or experiences]. I believe these qualities would enable me to [contribute to the new role or company in a specific way].
Moreover, I have taken steps to prepare for this career transition by [list relevant courses, certifications, or projects].
I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring my [specific skills or attributes] to [Company] and contribute to [a specific aspect of the company’s mission or goals].
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss further how my unique perspective and skills can benefit [Company].
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Example for Template 3:
Dear Ms. Johnson,
I am excited to apply for the Human Resources Coordinator role at Thrive Enterprises. Although my background is in customer service, I am confident that my skills and experiences are transferable to human resources.
In my current role as a Customer Service Team Leader, I have developed strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills. I believe these qualities would enable me to excel in managing employee relations and supporting HR initiatives.
Moreover, I have taken steps to prepare for this career transition by completing an online course in Human Resources Management and obtaining my certification.
I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring my interpersonal skills and dedication to employee well-being to Thrive Enterprises and contribute to creating a positive and inclusive work environment.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss further how my unique perspective and skills can benefit Thrive Enterprises.
Best regards,
Alex Wilson
Example Phrases
Opening Statements
Your opening sets the tone for your whole letter:
Examples:
- “I’m excited to apply for the Marketing Manager position at (…) Company.”
- “Your job posting for a Graphic Designer caught my eye on LinkedIn.”
- “As a passionate educator, I’m thrilled to apply for the Teaching position at (…) School.”
- “I was impressed by your company’s recent sustainability initiatives and would love to join your team.”
- “My 10 years of sales experience make me a great fit for the Account Executive role.”
- “I’m writing to express my interest in the Social Media Manager position at your firm.”
- “Your company’s innovative approach to healthcare inspired me to apply for the Nurse Practitioner role.”
- “I’m eager to bring my project management skills to the Construction Supervisor position.”
- “As a recent graduate in Environmental Science, I’m excited about the Research Assistant opening.”
- “Your reputation for excellent customer service drew me to apply for the Customer Support Representative role.”
Convincing Conclusion and Call to Action
End your letter with a strong finish. You can include a clear call to action, like asking for an interview:
Examples:
- “I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and would welcome the chance to discuss this role further.”
- “Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to speaking with you about how I can add value to your organization.”
- “I’m confident my transferable skills and enthusiasm make me a great fit for this position. I’d love to meet and discuss how I can contribute to your team’s success.”
- “I’m eager to bring my unique blend of skills and experience to your company. Please let me know if you need any additional information.”
- “I believe my background aligns well with your needs, and I’m excited about the possibility of joining your team. I hope we can schedule an interview soon.”
- “Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss how I can contribute to your company’s goals.”
- “I’m passionate about this field and I hope we can arrange a time to talk more about this exciting opportunity.”
- “I’m excited about the possibility of joining your innovative team and would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you further about this role.”
- “Thank you for reviewing my application. I’m looking forward to the next steps in the process and the chance to discuss how I can contribute to your organization’s mission.”
The Importance of a Career Change Cover Letter
A career change cover letter helps you explain why you’re switching fields. It’s your chance to make a strong first impression on potential employers.
- This letter shows how your skills from your old job fit the new role you want. You can highlight experiences that match what the company needs.
- You can use the letter to address any gaps in your work history. Related: 8 Examples: Confidently Explain Employment Gaps on Your Resume
- You can explain how you’ve prepared for the career switch through classes, volunteering, or side projects.
- You can share what drew you to this new field and how it aligns with your goals.
- Try to tailor each cover letter to the specific job and company.