If you are like most people, you don't even think about your resume until you urgently need to send it to a prospective employer. However, we propose breaking old habits for the New Year and becoming more efficient with your reflective process.
A resume is the first thing a new employer will see, well before your physical appearance. Therefore, editing your resume as time progresses is essential to keep up with current reflections on work duties, responsibilities, and accomplishments. To help you through this process, we have five suggestions to help you update your resume.
Tip 1: Review Your Work Status
Reviewing job positions and descriptions is essential when updating your resume, especially if you move jobs frequently. Many skills carry over to a different job, which can lead to redundancy on your resume. Be sure to proofread the workplace section by spell-checking names and titles. Refrain from using position or industry-specific abbreviations or acronyms. This will help ensure that a potential new employer understands your previous responsibilities. A good average is to list all jobs over the past five years.
Tip 2: Update Your Contact Information
Along with your work history, it is vital to confirm that all contact information is updated – even your present or past employers. You may also want to use a previous employer as a reference, so updating any changes of earlier employers is necessary. Double-check names, phone numbers, job titles, and addresses to be safe.
Tip 3: Highlight Your Skill Set
As you reflect on your work training and personal knowledge, list your professional skills and accomplishments in your roles that apply to the desired position. In this section, you want to focus on skills that a potential employer may be looking for based on the requirements and job description of the position for which you are applying. It wouldn't make sense to elaborate on an experience that does not relate to a preferred job qualification.
For example, if you are applying for a veterinarian job, it would be helpful for the employer or interviewer to understand your strengths and experiences regarding this type of work. This may also help you stand out from other applicants if there is a competitive applicant pool.
Tip 4: Improve Your Format
Readability is a crucial factor when creating and editing your resume. Employers want an easy-to-follow format. It is vital to take an objective stance and look at your resume as if you had never seen it before. Headings and flow should make sense and be legible. Typically, Times New Roman and sizes 12-14 font are used. No matter which font you select, ensure that the text and size are easily readable for different audiences because there could be more than one person reviewing your resume.
Tip 5: Don't Forget to Proofread
One of the main reasons resumes are rejected is spelling errors. Read each line of your resume and correct any spelling or grammar errors. You want to maintain a professional projection of your character and knowledge regarding your desired position. It is always a good idea to read your resume aloud to be sure the thoughts flow, and we recommend having a friend or two also review it before submitting it to a potential employer.
Lastly, make sure to optimize your resume to be printed on paper. This means making sure that when it is printed, the margins are set correctly, and once it is printed, it looks professional.
We wish the best of luck to you and your resume – and Happy New Year!
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As a pioneer in the performance-based approach, Certified Source works with job seekers to ensure their career goals are being met. We have developed great partnerships with employer clients throughout Oklahoma, looking for ways to meet headcounts and effectively manage their workforces. To get started, find your nearest office or contact us today to learn what is possible.