When job hunting, one of the biggest challenges is presenting your work experience in a way that resonates with employers. Not every candidate has a perfectly linear career path or direct experience in the role they’re applying for, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of the running. Relative work experience—skills, projects, or roles that align closely with the job’s requirements—can be just as valuable as direct experience when framed effectively. Here’s how to leverage it to stand out in your job search.

Relative work experience refers to skills, accomplishments, or roles from your past that aren’t an exact match for the job but are still relevant. For example, if you’re applying for a project management role but have only managed small teams or coordinated events, those experiences still demonstrate leadership, organization, and communication—key competencies for the position. The trick is identifying transferable skills and presenting them in a way that bridges the gap between your background and the job’s needs.

Employers value candidates who can adapt and apply their skills creatively. According to a 2023 LinkedIn report, 68% of hiring managers prioritize transferable skills over specific job titles when evaluating candidates. This means your ability to connect the dots between your past roles and the job you want is critical.

Start by dissecting the job description. Look for keywords and phrases that highlight required skills, such as “problem-solving,” “data analysis,” or “stakeholder communication.” Then, reflect on your own experiences—professional, volunteer, or even personal projects—that demonstrate those skills.

For instance:

Make a list of these skills and match them to the job’s requirements. Be specific about outcomes—did your work increase efficiency, save costs, or improve team morale? Quantifiable results make your experience more compelling.

Your resume and cover letter are your first chance to showcase relative work experience. Avoid listing job duties generically; instead, use action verbs and results-oriented language to align your experience with the role. For example, instead of saying “Managed a team of volunteers,” write “Coordinated a team of 10 volunteers to execute a community event, increasing attendance by 20%.”

In your cover letter, tell a story. Describe a specific project or role where you used relevant skills and explain how it prepares you for the job. If you’re transitioning from teaching to corporate training, for example, highlight how designing lesson plans and engaging diverse learners translates to creating training programs and facilitating workshops.

If your experience feels too far removed from the job, don’t shy away from addressing it directly. In interviews, acknowledge any perceived gaps and pivot to your strengths. For example: “While I haven’t worked in this exact industry, my experience in [related field] taught me [specific skill], which I believe applies directly to [job requirement].” This shows self-awareness and confidence.

You can also bridge gaps by upskilling. Online platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning offer courses in areas like project management, coding, or marketing. Completing a relevant course or certification can bolster your resume and demonstrate commitment. Mention these efforts in your application to show you’re proactive about closing any skill gaps.

Networking is another way to make relative work experience shine. Attend industry events, join online communities, or reach out to professionals on LinkedIn. When discussing your background, focus on your adaptability and eagerness to learn. Share examples of how you’ve successfully pivoted in the past—whether by learning new software, leading a cross-functional team, or tackling unfamiliar challenges.

If possible, create a portfolio or personal website to showcase your work. For example, if you’re applying for a graphic design role but only have freelance experience, display your designs online with brief explanations of how they relate to the job. This tangible evidence can make your relative experience feel more concrete.

Relative work experience is not a limitation—it’s an opportunity to showcase your versatility and problem-solving abilities. By identifying transferable skills, tailoring your application materials, addressing gaps confidently, and leveraging networking, you can position yourself as a strong candidate, even without direct experience. Employers are looking for potential as much as expertise, so make it clear that you’re ready to bring value to their team.