Career change at 36 - CV & cover letters

[Fun Bus]

At the age of 36, and after 12 years in one industry, an opportunity has presented itself which I'd like to pursue. If I were successful, I would go back to what I did for the first five years of my career.

I'll be re-writing my CV to highlight the skills I have which are required and relevant to the role I'm planning to apply for. What I'm unsure about is the cover letter - how do I best relay why I'm looking to change career path without sounding like I'm having an early mid-life crisis?!

Any input appreciated, especially from those who are used to hiring staff.

Thanks in advance.

[davepoth]

It could be a lot worse. Five years of experience in the field will make this a much easier ask. Has that field changed much in the intervening period?

[Fun Bus]

No, it hasn't but I was in a different field to that I'm wanting to get in to. Basically, I want to be in the premium market and my five years was more in the mass market.

My CV no longer even references this period but the re-write will refer to it all.

[rog007]

There's a great deal of skill to wordsmith an engaging cover letter (where one is asked for; not all applications require one). One tip is to tell the truth; it works for me when I'm hiring. Good luck!