CV and Cover Letter Format for Industry Roles vs. Consulting in Germany

Hello, transitioning from consulting-specific applications to industry roles can indeed require some adjustments to your CV and cover letter. Having done this myself, very recently, I am happy to offer my views here. 

While the core content of your application documents can remain similar, there are a few key differences to keep in mind when applying at industry companies in Germany.

CV Adjustments:

1. Focus on Relevant Experience: Highlight experiences that are directly relevant to the industry role you're applying for. Emphasize any business development or strategy projects you've worked on, even if they were part of your consulting roles.
2. Skills Section: Tailor your skills section to include industry-specific skills. For example, if you're applying for a role in a tech company, highlight any technical skills or familiarity with industry tools.
3. Achievements: Quantify your achievements with metrics that are relevant to the industry. For instance, instead of just mentioning that you led a project, specify the impact it had on the client's business.

Cover Letter Adjustments:

1. Customization: Customize your cover letter for each application. Mention the specific company and role, and explain why you're interested in that particular industry and how your background in consulting makes you a strong fit.
2. Industry Language: Use language and terminology that are common in the industry you're applying to. This shows that you understand the industry and are genuinely interested in it.
3. Motivation and Fit: Clearly articulate your motivation for transitioning to an industry role and how your consulting experience has prepared you for this new challenge. Highlight any relevant industry knowledge or passion you have.

In addition, dont underestimate the cultural fit in your applications. Demonstrate your understanding of the company's culture and values. This is particularly important in Germany, where cultural fit is often a key consideration in hiring decisions.

Hey!

When transitioning from consulting to industry roles in Germany, it’s important to tailor your CV and cover letter to align with industry expectations. While consulting applications emphasize analytical skills and structured problem-solving, industry roles focus more on relevant experience, domain knowledge, and how your skills fit the company’s strategic goals.

CV for industry roles should highlight your specific roles in business development or strategy, with achievements and skills directly applicable to the industry. Cover letters should focus on your understanding of the company, its challenges, and how your background aligns with its needs. If you’d like, I can help review your CV to ensure it effectively presents your consulting experience and prepares you for the industry roles you’re targeting.

Alessa :)

Hi there,

I would be happy to share my thoughts on your question:

• First of all, and contrary to what other coaches have said, the format and structure of your resume and cover letter need not be different for industry roles than for consulting roles.
• Moreover, while you should always tailor the content of both your resume and cover letter to the specific role and firm, again, they don't have to be different for industry roles than for consulting roles. Also, you can only work with what you have, and for example, pretending to be an industry expert when you have limited experience won't make you more credible if you use industry jargon.
• Lastly, I would advise you to consider working with an experienced coach on your application files. As the most experienced coach in terms of consulting, interviewing and coaching experience, I'd be more than happy to help you.

If you would like a more detailed discussion on how to best prepare your application files, please don't hesitate to contact me directly.

Best,

Hagen