What kind of resume do you need to change jobs?
Looking to make a career change? Well, you are going to need a résumé that will help you focus on the things that are relevant for a new industry. In this situation, what should your résumé look like? A straight chronological résumé is probably not the answer here.
I recommend a hybrid set up. What’s this you ask? A hybrid résumé will allow you to highlight key achievements at the top of the document, and tie back to the reverse chronological information that follows. After creating a compelling summary at the top and related core competency section, which will consist of your key words, you can create a Select Accomplishments heading. Under this umbrella heading you should draft compelling, results-oriented bullets that will enable the reader to understand what you can contribute in a new role.
For example, if you are presently in technology and looking to transition to more of a cust
omer-facing sales role, highlight interactions with internal clients and any external relationships with vendors where you were involved in developing relationships and conducting negotiations on contracts or project delivery terms. You should also consider referencing your ability to see a process through from inception through completion, which is often part of the sales function. If you work with other departments or part of a cross-functional team, provide that information in this section. Be sure to reference the role where you did the work so the reader isn’t left wondering at which company you achieved the results. You can then reference professional experience under this area where you would then revert with a traditional reverse chronological format. The illustration above reveals what I am talking about and will help you understand why this format works, particularly for career changers. You can download the full document here.
This résumé clearly illustrates what skills this person brings to a new position. With a compelling summary, key words and succinct bullets that deliver results, the reader is already engaged before realizing the applicant is making a switch. With the relevant transferrable skills, the change can be made swiftly.
Comments and feedback are requested and desired; and you are welcome and encouraged to submit questions to thecareerdoctor.
Debra Wheatman, CPRW, CPCC is the founder and Chief Career Strategist of ResumesDoneWrite, a premier career services provider focused on developing highly personalized career roadmaps for senior leaders and executives across all verticals and industries.
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DWheatman@ResumesDoneWrite.com
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