Update your resume
- Start with a master resume. Put everything on it, because you never know when a certain skill, project, or industry experience will be important in the future. This master resume will be the big, long, comprehensive resume you use as a reference document when you’re creating shorter, more tailored resumes for specific positions. See above (your proudest achievements) and make sure those show up on the front page of your resume.
- Tailor your resume for every position you apply for. Yup … this is a ton of work, which is why you should be picky about which jobs you apply for (12% chance of getting hired by applying for jobs online) … over 80% when you are referred to someone.
- TEST your resume using jobscan.co. Best thing since sliced bread!
Your resume is a MARKETING TOOL. It’s your sell sheet.
The 1st page of your resume like the front cover of a cake mix box. It’s a snapshot.
It’s a promise of what you can do for your next employer. The 2 page is like the list of key ingredients.
Myth busters: 4 Thins you need to know about your resume:
- Your resume is designed to get you an INTERVIEW, not a job offer. It is a marketing document. It is a marketing document. Share just enough relevant information to make them want to learn more … by calling you and then meeting you. It should be a high-level view of your best work and work history. Keep the nitty-gritty details in a “master resume,” but keep it short & sweet for your prospective employers.
- When a real human being sees your resume, you’ve only got 5-7 seconds to grab a recruiter or hiring manager’s attention. Yet more proof that you need to be concise.
- The top 1/3 of your first page is most important. Make sure your name, contact details, headline (area of expertise or job title), and your summary are clear, concise … and aimed at your FUTURE boss, not your current or former boss.
Yes, you need separate resumes for separate jobs. If you are applying for more than one type of job, you will definitely need to craft a resume for each specific one. If you’re applying online, you will need to tailor your resume for that specific job, company, and industry.