In today's marketplace, it can seem like changing careers is all but impossible. After all, how can a candidate seeking entry into a new industry possibly compete with those who've spent their entire careers there? The answer lies in how you target the resume: what skills you choose to highlight, what structure you opt to use, and how effectively you communicate passion. Yes, recruiters and hiring agents are on the lookout for experienced candidates. But the advantages of bringing in fresh blood, someone with highly transferable skills and a track record of prior success is not something they'll ever ignore. Laying the correct foundation in your resume sets the stage for a successful interview, and will help you land a position you truly care about.

1) IDENTIFY (AND HIGHLIGHT) TRANSFERABLE SKILLS

Let's say you want to move from Project Management into a Sales position. Gather job postings you could see yourself applying to and analyze them for key skills. What are the areas of overlap? For example, did you excel in managing client relationships? Consistently complete projects ahead of budget and schedule? Did you adjust to changing business needs? These are all valuable attributes that hold weight when recruiters and hiring agents scout for Sales candidates.

Next, create a brief opening paragraph that highlights these skills. Keep it brief and to the point. End it with a statement of your ability to succeed in diverse situations, such as, "Proven track record of success spanning diverse industries and environments". Versatility is a prized attribute.

2) DEVELOP A WORK HISTORY IN LINE WITH YOUR JOB TARGET

Career changers need to be especially careful in not simply reciting responsibilities and accomplishments within their work history. Recruiters and hiring agents are looking for your ability to succeed in a new environment. Highlight transferable skills first and leave off extraneous details which are not pertinent for your targeted position.

3) INCLUDE QUANTIFIABLE SUCCESSES

Nothing makes a stronger case for your candidacy than quantifiable successes, whether they're pertinent to your target position or no. Take the time to gather this information and integrate it within a "Key Accomplishments" or similar section for every position you've held within the past 10-12 years.

4) HIGHLIGHT RELEVANT PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS, TRAINING, AND TECHNICAL SKILLS

Have you recently joined an industry group? Received training in the field you're targeting? What technical skills do you possess which can be applied in a new position? Create succinct closing sections highlighting them.

Anish Majumdar is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Owner at Resume Orbit. 95% of clients report a significant increase in interviews within 30 days, and all work comes backed by a 100% Satisfaction or Money Back Guarantee (in writing).

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