Author: Carrie Riewe – Twin Peaks Vitality
If you haven’t opened your resume since interviewing for your current job, you are not alone. Updating your resume can feel like a drag or entirely overwhelming. Many people don’t even think about their resume until an interesting job comes along, and then it’s a quick scramble to make a few edits and submit it. Sound familiar?
Opportunities do not schedule appointments. Always be prepared.
Tim Fargo
Chances are you have gained new skills or experiences that you can add to make your resume relevant again! Now is the time to refresh your resume, so you’re prepared for the next perfect job.
There’s no need to overhaul your current resume completely. Dust off your resume and get started with some of these simple edits.
UPDATE CONTACT INFO
Employers shouldn’t have to search for this information! Make it visible and prominent at the top of your resume.
Ensure your contact information is up-to-date and includes your first and last name, phone number, and email address. You can leave your physical address out and opt for just including your city and state, if you’d like.
Make sure your email address is professional. If it’s time to retire an old email address (like sk8terdude22@yahoo.com), you can easily create a new account with services like gmail.com.
ADD NEW SKILLS
Maybe you’ve taken some classes, training, or certifications in your current role. Perhaps you’ve started volunteering in the field where you are applying. If it’s relevant to the job posting, include it in your resume!
Include hard and soft skills. Hard skills can include formal training for a specific position, such as attending culinary school or getting certified to use machinery. Soft skills are sometimes referred to as “people skills,” such as communication, leadership, and teamwork. Again, if it’s relevant, add it!
CUSTOMIZE IT
Ditch the one-size-fits-all approach. The job description tells you what the hiring manager is looking for. Use it as a guide on updating your resume with relevant skills and experience that make you qualified for the role. Your resume should be tailored to highlight the things that make you the perfect candidate.
Last but not least…
PROOFREAD
Your resume is your chance to make an excellent first impression! By now, you have probably made several edits and tweaks. Take the time to read—and reread—your resume for clarity and to catch any grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors. Ask a friend to review your resume to check for anything you may have missed.
Success is where preparation and opportunity meet.
Bobby Unser
Your resume is always a work in progress! As you gain experience and skills, update your resume to reflect the significant changes you’re making throughout your career so you can be prepared whenever exciting opportunities are presented!
