Career Pivots: How to Make a Successful Job Change

This blog is adapted from our Altis job seeker resource: The Ultimate Guide to Career Pivots: Successfully Navigating Major Job Changes.

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Thinking about a career pivot? You’re in good company.

Every year, thousands of Canadians decide it’s time for a change — whether that means switching industries, moving into a new role, joining a different company, going from freelance to full-time (or the other way around), or re-entering the workforce after a break.

Recent surveys show that 12% of Canadian employees voluntarily change jobs each year and more than half of job seekers (56%) have already switched careers at least once. In fact, younger professionals — Gen Z and Millennials — are more likely than other generations to make multiple career changes.

It’s a big move, and it can feel daunting. But it’s also an opportunity to reshape your career into something more aligned with your goals, values and lifestyle. This blog will walk you through why Canadians are making pivots and, more importantly, how you can make your own move with confidence.

Why Canadians Are Making Moves

So, what’s driving all these changes? Here are some of the biggest motivators we’re seeing:

• Better work culture & flexibility – Remote and hybrid options, plus healthier work environments, are top priorities.

• Career growth – Lack of advancement opportunities pushes many to explore new paths.

• Compensation – 37% of employers say higher pay and benefits elsewhere drive turnover (HCAMag).

• New passions – Some job seekers are chasing fields that excite them more than their current role.

• Industry changes – Declines in some sectors and growth in others are opening doors.

• Relocation – Moving cities often means pivoting into new industries or roles.

• Upskilling – 60% of Canadians say continuous learning is essential to success (Businesswire, 2024).

• Layoffs – For many, career pivots start with adapting to workforce disruptions.

How to Navigate a Career Pivot

1. Switching Industries

Shifting into a completely new industry can feel intimidating, but it’s also a chance to expand your impact. The trick is to highlight transferable skills — communication, leadership, problem-solving — while showing hiring managers you’ve invested in learning the new field.

What to include on your resumé:

• Dedicated section for transferable skills

• Certifications, online courses, or training

• Relevant projects, volunteer work, or side hustles

Example:

“Led financial reporting for donors, ensuring accuracy and transparency — skills applicable to investor relations and financial compliance.”

How to talk about it in an interview:

• Show excitement about applying your skills in new ways

• Mention specific courses, events, or self-learning efforts

Example:

“This transition excites me because it allows me to apply my problem-solving and leadership skills in new ways. I’ve completed certifications in [X] and attended webinars on [Y] to prepare myself for this industry.”

2. Returning After a Break (Career Gap)

Whether you stepped away to care for family, focus on health, or pursue education, returning to the workforce can feel like starting over. The truth? Breaks can add just as much value as traditional work experience, and employers often value the resilience, adaptability and perspective gained during that time.  

What to include on your resumé:

• Certifications, workshops, or courses completed during your time off

• Volunteer work, freelance projects, or part-time roles

• A short note in your summary if the gap needs acknowledgment

Example:

“Marketing professional with 8+ years in digital strategy and content development. Recently returned from a career break to raise children and earn digital marketing certifications. Ready to bring new skills and energy to a new team.”

How to talk about it in an interview:

Example 1:

“During my career break, I stayed engaged by completing certifications and freelance projects. I’m excited to bring this updated skill set and fresh perspective to a full-time role.”

Example 2:

“My time away gave me resilience and adaptability. I’m now ready to re-enter the workforce with a renewed sense of energy and commitment.”

3. Changing Job Functions Completely

Sometimes the pivot isn’t about the industry — it’s about the role itself. Moving from, say, Digital Media Manager to Business Analyst can feel like a big leap, but your transferable strengths will carry you. Highlight relevant certifications or training and use your cover letter to share why this shift excites you and how your skills will add value from day one.

What to include on your resumé:

• A resumé summary that frames your pivot head-on

• Certifications or courses related to the new function

• Practical experience through projects or mentorships

Example:

“Project Manager with 5+ years leading cross-functional teams. Recently completed certifications in UX Design and Data Analysis to pivot into product management, bringing strategic thinking and creativity to the role.”

How to talk about it in an interview:

Example 1:

“I’ve spent years honing transferable skills like communication and project management. Through courses in [X] and [Y], I’ve built a strong foundation for this role, and I’m excited to bring a fresh perspective.”

Example 2:

“I decided to make this pivot because I’m eager to take on new challenges. I’ve been intentional about preparing, completing certifications and hands-on projects, and I’m ready to contribute immediately.”

4. Changing Companies After Years in One Role

Staying with the same company for a decade or more is an achievement — but it can sometimes leave you craving new challenges. The key is to frame your loyalty and longevity as strengths.

What to include on your resumé:

• Career progression and promotions over the years

• Leadership, mentorship, and professional development

• Specific metrics showing impact

Example:

“Advanced from entry-level to senior management at [Company Name], driving initiatives that improved efficiency by 30% and mentoring team members into leadership roles.”

How to talk about it in an interview:

Example 1:

“I progressed steadily in my last company, taking on new responsibilities and certifications. I’m now ready to bring that growth mindset to a new team.”

Example 2:

“I’m proud of my ability to adapt and deliver results through industry changes. Joining a new company excites me because it’s a chance to apply my experience in a fresh context.”

5. Moving Between Freelance and Full-Time

Shifting from freelance to full-time (or vice versa) comes with unique opportunities. Freelancers bring adaptability and entrepreneurial grit to the table, while full-timers pivoting to consulting often highlight deep subject-matter expertise.

What to include on your resumé:

• Metrics showing tangible results

• Client work, business development, or cross-industry projects

• Skills like independence, resilience and collaboration

Examples:

• “Managed 30+ freelance projects across industries, delivering high-quality results under tight deadlines.”

• “Increased client revenue by 40% through strategic marketing campaigns and data-driven decision-making.”

• “Used 8 years of corporate expertise to launch a consulting business, building a steady stream of contract work through referrals.”

How to talk about it in an interview:

Example 1:

“Freelancing taught me resilience, adaptability, and client relationship-building — all of which I’m excited to bring into a structured, collaborative environment.”

Example 2:

“As a consultant, I developed problem-solving skills and entrepreneurial drive. I’m eager to apply those strengths within a team environment where I can continue learning and contributing.”

Final Thoughts

Career pivots are big decisions, but they also represent opportunity. Whether you’re making the leap into a new industry, returning after a break or chasing a dream role, the key is to reframe your story in a way that highlights both your transferable skills and your readiness to grow.

If you’re considering your next move, start with the basics: update your resumé, refresh your LinkedIn and lean on resources like the Altis blog. And remember — you don’t have to do it alone. Our recruiters are here to help you navigate your pivot and land your next opportunity.

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