Dear Mike:

I’m a couple years out of college and working in my first role post-grad, a professional services type job that’s given me tons of exposure to different areas of business: IT, HR, finance, legal, you name it. I’ve worked on complex outsourcing deals, managed client transitions, and helped facilitate everything from vendor RFPs to internal change management.

But now, I’m ready to pivot.

I want to move out of big consulting and into an internal operations role at a mid-sized company, ideally one where I can have a broader impact, wear multiple hats, and be part of a strong culture. The challenge? My resume doesn’t exactly line up with the job descriptions I’m seeing. And I worry that recruiters or hiring managers just won’t “get” how my background translates.

So what’s the best way for someone early in their career, who doesn’t check all the traditional boxes, to stand out as an out-of-the-box candidate?

Thanks,

Franklin

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Hey Franklin,

This is such a common crossroads, especially for high-achievers in their first or second post-grad role. You’ve built real versatility in consulting, but now you want to apply those skills in a setting where you’re not living on planes or chasing the next billable hour. I get it.

Let’s dig into how to position yourself and actually stand out when the job description doesn’t match your last title.

Stop Applying Like a Traditional Candidate

Here’s the hard truth: many recruiters are often scanning for keywords, not potential. If your resume doesn’t mirror the job posting, you’ll likely get passed over, even if you’re exactly what the company needs.

So don’t waste time applying online unless you’re a near-perfect match.

Instead, take the direct route:

• Identify the hiring manager, COO, or even the CEO.
• Reach out personally with a short, thoughtful message.
• Anchor your pitch in how your consulting background solves their problems, not how you’re looking to “try something new.”

Build a Project Portfolio (No Company Names Needed)

Recruiters and leaders don’t always know how to translate “consulting speak.” That’s where a project portfolio comes in.

Create a short document, just 8 to 10 bullets that highlights what you’ve done:

• Led a $25M outsourcing initiative across 3 departments, delivering 12% cost savings.
• Managed cross-functional stakeholder communications across HR, IT, and legal.
• Negotiated vendor contracts and facilitated RFP processes under tight deadlines.

No jargon. No company names. Just clear, transferable wins. You want the reader thinking, “Wow, we could use that kind of horsepower here.”

Frame Your Career Move as a Value Play, Not an Escape

When you talk about your transition, don’t lead with what you want out of (consulting fatigue, lifestyle shifts, etc.). Instead, focus on what you’re running toward:

• A role where you can build something more permanent.
• A culture where you can contribute deeply across departments.
• A team environment where your adaptability is an asset.

This framing shows maturity, intentionality, and confidence, all things leaders want on their team.

Be Transparent About Compensation and Strategic About Trade-Offs

When transitioning from a larger firm or consulting environment to a smaller company, compensation can be one of the trickiest parts to navigate. Internal roles might not always match what you’ve been earning in base salary or bonuses, but that doesn’t mean the opportunity isn’t worth considering.

Be upfront about your expectations, but also thoughtful about what matters most:

• Are you looking for equity or long-term upside?
• Is a strong culture, flexible schedule, or learning opportunity part of your “comp package”?
• What kind of growth trajectory matters more than your starting number?

Clarity paired with flexibility shows maturity and sets the stage for a conversation, not a standoff.

Finally, being an “out-of-the-box” candidate means doing the extra work to connect the dots, for them. You’re not just applying; you’re translating. You’re not hoping someone figures out how you fit, you’re showing them exactly where and why you do.

Be bold. Be clear. Be direct. That’s how you stand out and get in.

Go make it happen,

Mike

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TNCR Community – what advice would you add to this thread? Do you have a perspective that you can share? Have a career question for Mike? Email him directly at mike.burgett@burgateglobal.com