4 Power-Packed Ways to Improve Your Resume

Question: I have a really old resume and I haven't been in the job market for 15 years. What should I focus on in updating my resume?

It is no secret that the employment rates have been turbulent during this recent pandemic. However, the truth is that there is still a thriving job market in which companies are seeking qualified employees to add to their teams. If you have experienced a layoff during the pandemic, now is the perfect time to update your resume.

Before you settle on presenting the same resume you’ve had for 5 or 10 years, it is crucial that you present yourself in the best light because the truth is, you only have one shot to impress a hiring manager. And let me ease your mind -- revamping your resume does not have to be a daunting task.

Here are a few tips to simplify the process of updating your resume:

First, structure your resume. You want to make sure your resume includes all of the important information needed for a hiring manager to make an informed decision. From top to bottom, your resume should include your name/contact information, career summary (not an objective), core competencies, professional experience, and education. You can also include your technical skills depending on the type of position you are applying to.

Second, find a job listing of interest and make a list of the keywords. One of the best ways to create an effective resume is to find a job description that closely matches the type of job you’re seeking. Pay close attention to the key skills they desire. We like to call them “hard skills.” Make a list of those skills and identify which ones you currently possess. Those are the keywords and skills you need to highlight in your resume. Where should you highlight them? In your career summary, core competencies, and professional experience sections.

Third, include any new information. Take a look at your old resume and make sure that all of your relevant positions and any new degrees, training, and certifications are listed. Don’t leave the good information out, as it may be the very experience that lands you the job.

Lastly, check for errors. Carefully review your resume for grammatical and spelling errors because it matters. Something that may seem small to you could be the thing that eliminates you from consideration, therefore don’t skip this step. You can proofread your resume, however, it is always better to have a family member or friend who is skilled in the English language, review your resume.

Remember, dedicating the time to update your resume will make a significant difference in how fast you secure your next job. Following these four simple steps will ensure that you present yourself as the most qualified candidate for the job. Here’s to your success!

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