How to write a career change cover letter

It’s tempting (and much easier) to apply for a job simply by submitting a cover letter and your resume. But if you really want that job, it’s much smarter to ask for a 15-minute informational interview first. This may seem unnecessary or time consuming; but think about how you buy a car. From the moment you walk onto the lot, that seller has an idea of ​​what you, the buyer, want. “What is more important, safety, style or mileage?” “Convertible or sedan?” “Carpool or SUV?” Just like that car salesman, you have a product that you can present in many ways. Find out what is most important to your buyer (potential employer) before you start selling. What follows is an example/sample of a career change cover letter requesting that informational interview and an explanation of the eight points that must be in the letter.

Dear Mrs. Smith: My name is Joan Doe, and Joe Jones (1) suggests that I write to you. I have many years of experience as a kindergarten teacher and I love that job because I enjoy helping children succeed. In fact, I was named Teacher of the Year last year.(2) However, after ten years, I became interested in looking for a job in the customer service field. This might seem like a huge leap, but for the past 15 years, I’ve spent my spare time volunteering in customer service at our local youth center.(3) I’ve enjoyed providing technical assistance, troubleshooting, and supporting the various computer Applications. And at this point in my life (my own children are grown), I realize that I prefer to work with adults in a corporate setting. (4) To that end, I am trying to get as much information about the customer service industry as possible. I was hoping that you, as a former student,(5) would have 15 minutes to talk to me about the skills I might need and the additional studies I would need to pursue to achieve my goal.(6)(7) I am attaching my resume as a means of presentation. (8) I hope you have time to meet with me, Mrs. Smith, I really could use some guidance. To be honest,

Now, let’s discuss the points covered here:

1. You should have at least one personal contact that you share with the person you’re writing to (someone you’ve worked with, an old classmate, or a relative). This is not as difficult to achieve as it may seem.
2. Provide information about what you liked about your previous career and why you were good at it.
3. Explain why you are changing careers. Never mention anything negative about your old job. By stating why you loved the job you’re leaving and what you think you’ll like about your new job, you’ll establish that you have good reason to want a change.
4. Show some understanding of what the new career entails.
5. Reference to the second connection (ie, school, civic organizations). Not only does this show that you have something in common, but it also shows that you are not some random person who pulled the potential employer’s name out of a hat.
6. Request a 15-minute informational interview.
7. Admit that you may not be quite ready to take on this new job, and that you may have things to learn. This takes the pressure off both you and the potential employer; and reiterate that you are not asking for a job in this interview!
8. Attaching your resume gives the potential employer an idea of ​​how you have applied in the past and offers them the opportunity to list mutual colleagues as references.