DIY Resume Updates
A New Year can be a resume update reminder. Consider the following resume areas to update.
Contact Information
Never place the first-page resume contact information in a text box or in a header section. Most applicant tracking software (ATS) are unable to read header and text box content. Verify your email, phone, and other contact information is correct.
The resume can include additional contact information such as a city location, LinkedIn URL, or other social media profile details.
Job Goal, Introduction, and Keywords
Under the contact information, add the job name of the position you are trying to secure to create an ATS keyword match. A job title also helps people quickly understand your career goal.
Modern introduction sections provide a few bulleted career achievements showcasing valuable contributions.
For some professionals, the resume should include keywords aligned with a specific job in the introduction section. For example, “project manager” for some job opportunities are critical keywords.
Avoid general phrases such as “successful team member” or “strong work ethic” because these phrases say nothing unique and are overused.
Modern resumes do not use an objective statement – it’s self-serving and states the obvious.
Experience Section
Work history is usually the most robust resume section, listing relevant work in chronological order. Avoid writing a job obituary listing general responsibilities. Instead, include unique contributions.
A resume does not have to provide all work experience. Previous career contributions that are irrelevant to a job goal can be deemphasized or omitted.
Education & Training Information
For recent graduates, the education section may be listed higher on the resume under the introduction section.
Career changers who have secured new education or training can list education and training under the introduction section to highlight new knowledge and credentials.
Professionals with two or more years of experience typically put the education section after the experience section. Hiring managers are interested in learning about the professional’s experience and accomplishments.
Only attended college for a few classes? Include that education information and the number of courses completed, even if a degree was not awarded. There’s no need for education disclaimers or statements explaining why a degree was not earned. Do not include personal education philosophy statements.
Volunteer, Board Member, and Other Interests
This section can be a differentiator from other qualified candidates. Serving as a volunteer or board member can be included in a resume to highlight leadership skills and contributions.
Providing one to two sentences about hobbies and interests can also spur engaging discussions with future employers.
Avoid religious, political, or other controversial statements and views.
Need assistance updating your resume? Contact me.
