How do I write a cover letter for a career change?

Lead with the new direction and the reason for it, then prove you can already do parts of the new job. A career-change letter has to answer the reader's main doubt: "Why should we hire someone without direct experience?" Answer it with evidence, not hope.

A simple plan:

• Opening: name the role and state your move in one sentence.
• Middle: pick two or three requirements from the advert and match each one to something you have actually done, even if it was in another field.
• Show commitment: a course, certification, volunteer work or side project in the new field.
• Close: say what you bring that a typical candidate might not, such as industry knowledge or client experience.

Example: "After six years in hotel operations, I am moving into HR. I have already handled rota planning and onboarding for a team of 30, and I completed a CIPD foundation course this year."

Keep the tone confident. Do not apologise for the change; explain it.