How to Write a Cover Letter for a Change of Career: Cover Letters and Career Changes

Submitting a professional cover letter with your resume increases the likelihood of obtaining employment that will enable you to change your career, even as a baby boomer or a senior. Understanding the nature and purpose of a cover letter in the light of today’s unpredictable economy, may prove helpful.

What is a cover letter?

Businessdictionary.com suggests that a cover letter is a “formal letter describing the accompanying documents and/or other items and the reasons for sending them.”

Because of rapidly advancing computer technology, there is now a wide diversity of cover letter formats to choose from. While the appearance of cover letters that accompany resumes is subject to change, office.microsoft.com offers a free template download, if you are uncertain of the basic components of a cover letter.

The appearance and readability of your cover letter is important. The data contained in it should be appropriate, relevant and poignant, while maintaining contextual simplicity, regardless of its format.

Will your choice of cover letter format impress your potential employer and result in a positive, career change for you? Remember that because of high levels of unemployment, your potential employer may decide to peruse a multiplicity of cover letters in order to find the best possible candidate.  

Correct applicant procedure for your cover letter provides vital information that accompanies your resume, so that your potential employer can immediately identify you as the best possible candidate for a position.  The date on your application is important particularly when there is a specified time for application submission, or if there are numerous applicants.    

Including the correct name and address of your potential employer ensures that the cover letter will go to the right person, organization, or place of employment. Cover letters and resumes may get lost in any organizations, particularly large ones.

Professionalism with respect to addressing your potential employer in your cover letter increases the likelihood of receiving a positive response. An attitude of respect is always important. 

The body of your cover letter should focus on relevant aspects pertinent to your potential employment. In other words, why should a potential employer hire you instead of someone else? Keep your points brief, but show your potential employer that you are the most qualified candidate.

Note that making any change in your career can present unanticipated issues and concerns, particularly if you have held one position for a long time. Baby boomers and seniors who desire to return to work after early retirement, may encounter difficulty changing careers, but including information about why you want to change your career may prove beneficial.

In closing your cover letter, thank your potential employer for reading and considering your cover letter and resume.

Your potential employer may decide to contact you immediately for an interview, so be available. One of the most important aspects of the cover letter is your personal contact information. Include your telephone number or cell phone number, e-mail address, etc. If your potential employer cannot reach you, your application for employment may not receive the attention it deserves.

Any information posted in your cover letter can make a difference, so be certain that it is positive, constructive and motivational, as well as conducive to hiring by your prospective employer. It should always be verifiable.

Expect to be the candidate hired and changing your career will happen!