Transitioning industries with your resume full of buzzwords and jargon. How will you make a seamless shift?

1 Translate Jargon

To transition smoothly, begin by translating industry-specific jargon on your resume into universally understood language. This doesn't mean downplaying your expertise but rather reframing it in a way that's accessible to recruiters outside your current field. For instance, if you're in IT and you're skilled in 'Agile software development', you might rephrase this as 'flexible project management'. By doing so, you highlight your ability to adapt and manage projects efficiently, which is valuable in any industry.

4 Understand the Audience

To effectively communicate your value, you must understand the audience you're writing for. Research the industry you're entering to grasp its language and what skills are prized. If you're moving from finance to education, for example, convert 'fiscal efficiency' into 'cost-effective program management'. By aligning your resume with the new industry's values and terminology, you demonstrate that you're not only capable of understanding their world but also of contributing meaningfully to it.

5 Customize Your Resume

Customization is key when transitioning industries. Your resume should be tailored to each job application, highlighting the most relevant experiences and skills for the position. If you're applying for a marketing role, for example, focus on your 'campaign management' experience rather than 'portfolio rebalancing' from your finance background. This shows employers that you have the specific skills they're looking for, even if they come from a different industry.

6 Network Effectively

Finally, networking can play a pivotal role in your industry transition. Connect with professionals in your desired field to learn the lingo and discover which of your skills are most transferable. They can also provide insights into industry trends and may even refer you to job opportunities. Use professional networking platforms to join industry groups and participate in discussions. Through these connections, you can gain endorsements for your universal skills, further bolstering your resume's appeal.