Whether you want to switch jobs or careers, or simply want to re-enter the workforce after taking a break, you need to revise your existing resume. More specifically, you should update the things that have changed since the last time you actively sought work. You don’t have to rewrite your entire resume. Instead, follow these 5 steps to breathe new life into your current file.
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Update Your Resume Style
If the last time you looked for a job was in the late 2000s, your resume may look a bit dated by now. Fortunately, this is nothing a new layout or template can’t fix. The latest versions of word processors like Microsoft Word have contemporary resume templates that are appropriate for the modern job seeker.
Remember that when it comes to modern resumes, less is more. You’re better off with simple style elements than flashier ones. Stick to at least two combinations of fonts and colors to maintain a clean and consistent look.
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Revamp Your Professional Summary
A lot may have changed since the last time you had to submit your resume to prospective employers. Naturally, your professional summary should reflect your current skill set, ambitions, objectives, and experience. For example, if you were looking for a mid-level position the last time you looked for work, it may be time to write in your summary that you are ready to look for management roles.
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Update Your Education Section
If you picked up any training courses and/or certifications since the last time you entered the job market, go ahead and add them to your resume’s education section. And while you’re at it, remove unnecessary details like your high school diploma, college and/or high school GPAs, and training courses and certifications that aren’t applicable to the opportunities you’re looking for.
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Add Your Most Recent Work History
Now’s also a good time to add the latest developments in your career, focusing on the jobs and experiences that will show prospective employers you are an ideal match for the role. Be sure to accompany each entry in your work experience with a bullet list of accomplishments.
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Update Your Skill Set
Last but not least, add your new skills. Perhaps you’ve increased your proficiency in certain software applications? Are you now an “expert” instead of a “basic” user? Did you learn any new programming languages while on the job? Is it safe to say that you now know how to use CAD software? These are just some of the questions you can ask yourself when updating the skills section of your resume.
If your job search needs a push, let the staffing services specialists of Top Notch Personnel point you in the right direction. Contact our offices to learn more about how our staffing solutions can help you.
