Why This Industry? Answering the Career Change Question

## The Question You'll Be Asked Every career changer faces the same question: "Why this industry?" Interviewers ask it directly. Recruiters ask it silently while scanning your CV. If your answer isn't clear, you won't get the meeting. The good news: this question has a structure. Answer it well, and your pivot becomes a story of progression, not desperation. ## The Three-Part Answer Borrow this framework from university admissions. UCAS now asks applicants to explain their motivation, preparation, and outside experience. Career changers need the same structure. **Part 1: The Catalyst** What sparked your interest? Be specific. A project, a problem, a person, a moment. **Part 2: The Bridge** How does your background connect? What skills transfer? What have you done to close the gap? **Part 3: The Commitment** What have you done outside your day job to prove this isn't a whim? ## Example: Finance to Sustainability **Weak version:** "I want to move into sustainability because I care about the environment." **Strong version:** ```copy My interest in sustainability started when I led the carbon accounting workstream for our annual report. I realised that finance skills—modelling, reporting, stakeholder management—are exactly what ESG teams lack. Since then, I've completed the CFA ESG Certificate, joined the CFO Climate Network, and advised two start-ups on impact measurement. I'm not changing careers. I'm applying financial rigour to climate strategy. ``` The strong version shows a catalyst (the project), a bridge (transferable skills), and a commitment (credentials and side work). ## Where This Belongs on Your CV Your profile is the obvious place. But reinforce it elsewhere: - **Summary:** One sentence on why you're pivoting. - **Experience:** Highlight projects that bridge the gap. - **Skills or Interests:** List relevant courses, certifications, or side projects. Consistency matters. If your CV tells the story once, it's an afterthought. If it tells it three times, it's a strategy. ## Handling Scepticism Hiring managers worry about two things: 1. **Will you leave when something "better" comes along?** Counter this with commitment signals—courses, networking, unpaid projects. 2. **Will you need too much training?** Counter this with bridge skills. Show what transfers. Your CV must preempt these objections. Don't wait for the interview. ## Pre-Flight Checklist Before submitting your career-change CV: - [ ] Your profile explains why this industry (not just that you want in). - [ ] You've identified at least two transferable skills with evidence. - [ ] You've listed credentials or projects that show commitment. - [ ] Your experience section highlights bridging projects. - [ ] A neutral reader could explain your pivot in one sentence. --- *For more on positioning career transitions, explore our [Career Strategy](/career-strategy) insights.*