Job Search January Challenge #6
“Please disregard the inaccuracies in the attached resume—it is out of date.”
–Actual Cover Letter Quote
Your Resume Must Pass a First Glance Test
Hiring managers give each resume only a few seconds to earn a closer look. If it is sloppy or outdated or error-filled, it will almost certainly fail the first screening and go straight to the trash pile.
Specific Guidelines on How To Write Your Resume to Survive the First Glance Resume Test!
Update Your Resume
Okay, Folks, this challenge is non-negotiable. Your resume is often your first introduction to a target employer. We all know you never get a second chance to make a good first impression.
If you are seeking work, whether you are employed or unemployed, keep an up-to-date resume! This means you need your most recent work experience and also means that you need modern formatting.
Update the Facts
Make sure your most recent work experience, education, certifications, and continuing ed like seminars and trainings are included on your resume.
Be sure to use up-to-date language. Check the job descriptions of your most relevant job postings for keywords and be sure to include them throughout your resume.
Remember, Follow Job Boards to find job postings, then use those job descriptions to help you craft the language for your resume. Don’t just copy the language into your resume—it will be obvious that you’ve done so. Just make sure to include some of the wording here and there, in your Summary, Highlights, and Work Experience sections.
Update the Format
One of the most obvious indicators that your skills are outdated is to use an old resume format. With the availability of personal computers there are endless templates for formatting your resume. Microsoft Word and Google Docs offer a variety to choose from. Pick a clean, simple template.
Challenge #6: Update Your Resume
Working on your resume is a task many people procrastinate. It seems tedious and time consuming. But your resume is one of the most fundamental aspects of your job search. If your resume is contemporary and compelling, you’ll have a leg up on your competition!
If you don’t have the time or the skills to put together a good resume, enlist a friend or hire an expert to craft one for you. Contact me here for a FREE consultation!