How to Explain Your Career Choices to a Recruiter—Without Feeling Judged

‘Why have you made such a big career shift?’ or ‘Your background is a bit different from what we’re looking for.’
 
If you’ve ever felt judged or misunderstood by a recruiter, you’re not alone.
 
Many of my clients have expressed frustration when recruiters don’t fully grasp their career paths or the unique expertise they bring to the table.
 
Whether you're pivoting to a new industry or have a non-linear career journey, it can be tough to communicate the value of your experience.
 
But here's the thing—you can explain your career choices in a way that highlights your expertise and positions you as an asset.
 
Here’s how to respond when a recruiter questions your career path:

1. Focus on Transferable Skills
   When you're moving from one role or industry to another, focus on the skills you've developed that apply across various positions. Talk about your leadership abilities, problem-solving skills, and any specific technical knowledge that will benefit the new role.

 
For example:
"In my previous role, I managed complex projects and teams, which taught me to handle pressure and adapt quickly. These skills will help me excel in this position, where fast decision-making and adaptability are key."
 

1. Explain the Reason Behind Each Move
   Recruiters may not understand why you made certain career decisions, especially if they seem unconventional. Be prepared to explain the strategic reasoning behind each move. Whether you took a role to learn something new, to solve a particular challenge, or to develop in a certain area—explain how each decision has contributed to your overall growth.

 
For example:
"I took on a role that allowed me to work across multiple departments, which broadened my understanding of how different teams collaborate. That experience has given me the insight I need to step into a leadership role, where I’ll be able to bridge gaps and drive cross-functional success."
 

1. Showcase Your Passion and Vision
   Recruiters are looking for candidates who are not just qualified, but passionate about the role and company. Share why you're excited about this next step in your career and how it aligns with your long-term goals. This helps to show recruiters that your career moves were intentional, and that you're not just jumping from job to job.

 
For example:
"I’m particularly drawn to this opportunity because it aligns with my passion for [industry/technology/leadership], and I see it as a chance to leverage my experience to make a lasting impact. This role allows me to take what I’ve learned and apply it to new challenges that are both exciting and in line with my long-term career vision."
 

1. Use Your Journey as a Strength
   Don’t shy away from explaining the unconventional parts of your journey. Instead, frame it as something that sets you apart. If your career path isn’t linear, that’s actually an advantage—you bring a unique perspective that others may not have. Show how your varied experiences have given you a broader understanding of different sectors or roles, which can make you a more versatile candidate.

 
For example:
"My career has taken some unique turns, but each role has equipped me with new skills that directly contribute to the value I can bring to this position. I've had the opportunity to learn from diverse environments, and I believe this has given me a more well-rounded perspective that can help me solve problems creatively."
 

1. Don’t Be Afraid to Challenge Stereotypes
   Sometimes, recruiters may have a set idea of the "perfect" candidate for a role, based on typical career paths. If you feel your background is being unfairly judged, don’t hesitate to gently challenge this assumption by focusing on what you bring to the table, which can often be even more valuable than a traditional background.

 
For example:
"While my background may not look like the traditional route for this role, I bring a fresh perspective and a diverse skill set that can help drive new ideas. My experience in [area] allows me to offer solutions that others may not have considered."
 
Remember: It’s not about defending your career choices—it’s about positioning yourself as someone who brings valuable expertise and insights, no matter the route you’ve taken to get there.
 
How do you explain your career journey to recruiters?
Drop your tips and experiences in the comments below—I’d love to hear your thoughts! Let’s keep the discussion alive.
 
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