3 answers
TTE Consumer
Student
Gilbert, Arizona
3
Questions
Asked
236 views
How would I adjust my experience section when transferring retail to computer science?
I have always wanted to have a career CompSci, and am currently in college and working at a grocery store. I know that jobs like applicants to have experience and while retail isn't exactly the same there are still soft skills there and I want to know how I would present that to an employer.
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3 answers
Dima Vizelman
Software Engineer
11
Answers
Tel Aviv-Yafo, Tel Aviv District, Israel
Updated
Dima’s Answer
While retail isn't directly linked to computer science, it offers valuable skills you might not realize. Instead of listing simple tasks, highlight skills like problem-solving, managing busy or stressful times, teamwork, quickly learning new systems, and being dependable. If you've resolved customer issues, trained new staff, or managed responsibilities like closing, these show maturity and trustworthiness. Keep this section brief and focused on skills, and make sure your projects, coding abilities, and coursework shine, as these are crucial for CS internships and entry-level roles.
Sandeep Khandelwal
Software Engineer
59
Answers
San Ramon, California
Updated
Sandeep’s Answer
Hello,
When moving from retail to computer science, don’t try to hide your retail experience. Focus less on job duties and more on skills that matter in tech: problem-solving, teamwork, communication, reliability, and handling pressure. Employers know students don’t start with perfect technical resumes so they look for people who can learn and work well with others.
When moving from retail to computer science, don’t try to hide your retail experience. Focus less on job duties and more on skills that matter in tech: problem-solving, teamwork, communication, reliability, and handling pressure. Employers know students don’t start with perfect technical resumes so they look for people who can learn and work well with others.
Christopher Carr
SMB Account Manager
1
Answer
Eureka, California
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
Think of your retail job as training in dealing with people. You're not just a clerk; you're a problem-solver who can handle tough situations and challenging customers with ease.
1. Use tech terms: Instead of saying "fixed a register," say you "resolved hardware issues." Instead of "organized the backroom," say you "improved inventory management." These words show you already think like a programmer.
2. Highlight your "People Skills": Coding is a team effort. Your ability to stay calm under pressure and explain things well is a huge advantage that many new coders lack.
3. Focus on Projects: List your school projects and coding hobbies at the top of your resume to highlight your skills. Use your retail job to show you're hardworking and dependable.
You've got the drive and the skills—now it's time to show how they work together. You can do it!
1. Use tech terms: Instead of saying "fixed a register," say you "resolved hardware issues." Instead of "organized the backroom," say you "improved inventory management." These words show you already think like a programmer.
2. Highlight your "People Skills": Coding is a team effort. Your ability to stay calm under pressure and explain things well is a huge advantage that many new coders lack.
3. Focus on Projects: List your school projects and coding hobbies at the top of your resume to highlight your skills. Use your retail job to show you're hardworking and dependable.
You've got the drive and the skills—now it's time to show how they work together. You can do it!