Most career pivots don't fail because of a resume gap — they fail in the first interview, when candidates try to explain their story on the fly.

Here's the 3-part narrative that works:

1. Bridge, don't erase. Don't hide your old career — connect it. "My 5 years in operations taught me how to manage complexity, which is exactly what this role demands."

2. Name the why now. Interviewers want to know why you're pivoting now, not just that you want to. Have a clear, honest reason ready.

3. Show proof of motion. Certifications, side projects, volunteer work — anything showing you've already started moving in the new direction beats "I've always been interested in this."

Get these three right and your pivot stops sounding like a risk and starts sounding like a plan.