How to make a career switch?
We've all experienced those jobs that suck the soul out of us. If you find yourself feeling trapped in your current role, it's a clear sign that it's time to explore new opportunities. Also, the moment you realize that a particular role is not for you, you should start your prep to make a career switch. I can tell you from my personal experience that you won’t regret it and would instead wish that you would have done it sooner.
When it comes to making a career change, it's common to feel uncertain about crafting a resume that not only stands out but also gets you interview calls. Here’s a 5-step resume checklist for you:
1. Add a summary
The beginning of your resume is your chance to make a memorable first impression. Craft a compelling resume summary or objective that highlights your relevant skills and enthusiasm for your new career path. This is your opportunity to show employers that you're the right person for the job, even if your background is different.
Here’s an example of a transition from a Business Analyst to a Project Coordinator
"Having accrued over two years of experience as a business analyst, I bring a wealth of transferable skills to the world of project management. I've facilitated the delivery of projects on or ahead of schedule, increasing overall team efficiency by 15%. Additionally, my skill in multitasking, adapting to changing requirements, and fostering collaboration positions me as a candidate ready to excel in the project management arena.”
2. Highlight Transferable Skills
Your past experiences would’ve likely given you valuable skills that are applicable to your new career. Identify these transferable skills and use your work experience section to demonstrate how you've successfully applied them. Don’t forget to use the CAR (Context-Action-Result) framework when writing your bullet points.
BA role: Utilized data analysis to identify cost-saving opportunities and developed strategies for cost control, contributing to a 15% reduction in operational expenses.
PM role: Reduced operational expenses by 15% within the first quarter of project implementation by implementing effective cost-control strategies.
3. Add relevant projects or academics
Don't forget to include relevant projects and your educational background. If you've done projects or completed coursework relevant to your new career, be sure to highlight them in your resume.
Example: If you pursued a PM course, add the details of your Capstone project.
4. Add certifications
Pursue certifications to upskill yourself and to show your commitment. Choose ones that would be relevant to your role as well as your industry.
Examples:
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
Project Management Institute (PMI) Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP)
Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
5. Take care of your skill
At the end of the day, it’s going to come down to your skill set. If only 20% of your resume shows relevant skills, it’s not going to cut it. In that case, you need to step back, do a gap assessment of your skills, start with certifications, and later solidify that knowledge with mini projects.
I can assure you it’s possible as I myself am proof of that. I managed to change not just 1 but 3 things when I made a career transition:
✅ Role from that of a Project Leader to a Social Media Marketer
✅ Industry from Pharma to Environmental and Conservation
✅ Sector from private to government
Wishing you good luck!
Keep blooming,
Bani