How do I explain a career change on my resume without confusing hiring managers?

QUESTION: How do I explain a career change on my resume without confusing hiring managers?

 

Lynne Williams, Career News Today

Write a concise profile summary highlighting your strengths, expertise, and reason for pivoting or reinventing. It’s OK to mention selling a business, retiring from the military, or switching sectors, like to/from a nonprofit and your future-forward role. Emphasize new certifications or training that support your keen interest and readiness for your next new chapter.

Cherie Heid, Competitive Edge Resume Service

Hiring managers understand that many job seekers change their career focus – they won’t be confused! Of course it is best to focus on transferable skills and relevant experience when you describe your past positions. Use a clear summary to explain your career shift and highlight how your past roles align with the new focus.

Jaime Chambron , Career Agility System

If it is relevant, I mention the former career in the resume’s career summary, like “actor turned business owner.” I then focus on sharing any transferrable skills and accomplishments that would resonate with the target hiring managers in the experience section of the resume.  

Work with the Best

Find a Resume Expert

If you’re looking for more information on how to write a great resume – or get an expert to help you with yours – you’ve come to the right place! This site was created by the National Resume Writers’ Association (NRWA), a US-based non-profit association with members from around the world who are dedicated to learning about and providing expertise in resume writing to all job seekers.

The National Résumé Writers’ Association

12110 N. Pecos Street, Suite 220
Westminster, CO 80234

Thanks for checking out ResumeExperts.theNRWA.com! For more on our association and certification, see www.thenrwa.org