Five Ways to Clean Up Your Resume
Think of your resume like a story – your story, in fact. It is the tale of your professional experience, your personal achievements and work ethic. You want that story to be compelling, as it conveys your potential value to a hiring team or prospective employer.
A professional resume opens the doors to possibilities. However, sometimes when a job search is stalled, you may wonder why that resume isn’t making it to the top of the stack. You might be so focused on conducting the search, that you haven’t updated your tools, namely your resume. Here are five ways to clean up your resume, taking it from stale to stellar.
#1 Use Key Phrases
What kinds of words are important to employers in your industry? Are they looking for solid communication skills or effective leadership abilities? Would specialized training and certifications boost your hiring potential? Make sure your resume not only addresses the open position, but also the company’s needs. Using key phrases in your resume shows a potential employer how they can rely on your expertise and makes it easier for them to search for you.
#2 Use Action Words
If you want to propel your resume to the top of the pile, you’re going to need to give it some power. Action words don’t just tell the hiring manager what you can do; they show it. Action words build excitement and momentum. You didn’t just passively produce at your last job; you were an innovator. You improved the workplace and motivated others. You increased sales, saved the company money or brought a project in ahead of schedule. Words like guide, generate, design, increase, save, resolve and oversee are all action words that demonstrate your talent.
#3 Be Clean and Uncluttered
Sure, a big, bold header might get noticed, but it might also cast doubt on your judgment. Go for a clean, uncluttered layout that lets your experience speak for itself. Don’t go too far with decorative text or large font; it’s actually better to stick with the standards. Your resume will get read, no matter what; but it’s the content, not flowery designs, that will need to impress.
#4 Give Examples of Teamwork and Leadership
Every industry needs leaders and team players; even better when you can get both in one candidate. In your job duties and responsibilities details, be sure to mention your ability to collaborate successfully and situations where you led the warehouse, office or department. Even volunteer opportunities are a great place to show that you are a leader who works with others to build a stronger community.
#5 Show Your Long-term Potential
The hiring process is very costly, which is why employers don’t want to go through it any more than they have to. Your resume is the perfect place to demonstrate your long-term potential. At the same time, this shows your commitment and dedication to not only a career, but also a company.
As you consider the new opportunities in your employment future, remember you don’t have to do it alone. Burnett Specialists? or Choice Specialists can help you improve your resume and be your path to a new temporary employment experience or the permanent job of your dreams. We have opportunities for many job seekers. Contact us and we’ll get a plan in place that boosts your opportunities and options.
