What Should I Include In My Resume If I am Changing Careers?

Dear Deb:

I have been a Pilates instructor at an upscale studio for 10 years. I am looking to make a change into a sales rep position for a fashion, fitness, or beauty brand. I don’t have a college degree and have only worked in fitness since the age of 20. What can I put on my resume to convince these companies to consider me?

Thanks,

Claire

Dear Claire:

As a Pilates instructor, you likely built many transferable skills that would be valuable in a sales rep position for a fashion, fitness, or beauty brand. Here are a few to consider:

- Relationship building

- Networking

- Planning and scheduling

- Understanding client needs

-  Expertise in fitness and probably some exposure to beauty services

You may also ask yourself a few questions to uncover accomplishments to support your goal:

- Did you sell services to clients? (Perhaps had you sales goals that you surpassed.)

- Did you always fill your sessions?

- Did you have a high rate of referral and repeat clients?

- Did you design any new promotions or marketing strategies?

- Did you represent the studio at any community events or conferences?

- Did you form any partnerships to benefit the studio?

- Did you work with any fashion designer to host trunk shows at the studio?

I would be happy to help you uncover accomplishments and help you build a winning resume. Please feel free to contact me.

All the best,

Deb