When was the last time you updated your resume? If you haven't yet added your most recent job change, promotion, responsibilities, or accomplishments, now's the time. Whether you're actively looking for a new job or not, maintaining a current resume not only guarantees you won't forget to add important details or accomplishments, but it also alleviates some of the stress and panic associated with sudden unemployment.
Although updating a resume itself isn't a quick process (you need to give yourself time to review it carefully to avoid mistakes), evaluating it for these key elements will take only minutes. Use the list below to quickly identify and highlight the weaknesses and strengths in your resume:
• Nouns. The nouns you include will help distinguish you from other applicants and solidify your image as a competent, experienced professional. Include such nouns as the names of specific tools you use, software and hardware you use and that's unique to your job or industry, techniques you are qualified to use, professional organizations you joined, and trade shows and conferences you have attended.
• Numbers. Quantify everything you can. Don't just say, "Created and coordinated the distribution of direct mail pieces," say, "Created and coordinated the distribution of 500,000 direct mail pieces annually."
• Relevant details. Highlight your duties and accomplishments as best you can, but use what you have as a base. Then, when you do apply for a position, use the job announcement as your guide and tailor your resume to each job you apply for. Address each qualification as accurately and completely as you can, answering the question of whether you have the experience or ability to perform the responsibilities.
• Personal information. Remove from your resume any information that could be used against you, including age, race, and political or religious references.
• Design. Don't be afraid of white space, and don't minimize type size to maximize content: keep your font size at 10pt or greater. Use bullets to list your responsibilities, and keep the overall design attractive and easy to scan.
• Verbs. Look closely at the job description/position announcement you're responding to. What verbs does the announcement use to describe the position's duties? When you can, incorporate those same verbs into your resume. Varying your verb choices is also important. Make sure you choose verbs that convey meaning and power. For a free list of powerful verbs to consider using on your resume, email us at solutions@amidirect.com.
Do you have a better suggestion to offer or a challenge you'd like help with? Say it here. Your comments are always welcome.
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