Your resume should be viewed as a fluid document – one that is always changing and being updated. Unfortunately, many people tend to overlook their resume once they have landed a job. Unless they’re looking to change positions, companies, or industries, they do not think to keep it updated. However, by periodically cleaning up your resume, you will save yourself time and trouble in the future because it will already be fairly accurate.
Today marks the start of spring, so as you are cleaning out the closets, consider giving your resume a spring cleaning as well. Here are a few tips to get started:
1. Remove Outdated Work Experience
The professionals at Chic Resumes encourage people to focus on the last 10 to 15 years of employment. Anything beyond that is probably somewhat outdated and you have most likely surpassed those skills and responsibilities or are able to show them more effectively in more recent jobs. This does not mean that you should leave these positions off of your resume completely. Considering adding a section of additional experience where you simply list the company, your position, and the years you were there. Forgo any additional details.
2. Replace the Objective with a Summary of Qualifications
The trend of including an objective has come and gone. What employers are now focused on are solid summary of qualifications and core competencies sections. They already know that you want the job given that you are applying. Instead, use this prime space at the top of your resume to let yourself shine. Focus on your greatest strengths and what you bring to the position. You want to catch the hiring manager’s attention and make them want to know more about you and how you could benefit their company.
Align your core competencies with the professional skills you have acquired, buzzwords within the industry, and keywords that are emphasized on the job description. This section is a quick way to show your main skills and abilities through strong keywords.
3. Update your Contact Information
Although this seems like common sense, it is a good idea to double-check the contact information you have included. Make sure that you haven’t switched any numbers in your address or phone number, and that the email address is one that you frequently check. If you have moved or changed your phone number since the last time you sent out your resume, ensure that you have updated this section. One small mistake could mean the difference in an employer being able to contact you.
4. Incorporate New Accomplishments
Once you have cleaned up the outdated material, it is time to start adding fresh information. First, list any promotions or new jobs that you have held. Then, focus on your most significant accomplishments and projects. Create statements that are results- or action-oriented. What did you do, how did you do it, and what was the result? Whenever possible, try to incorporate metrics to further support your claims. Read through your core competencies as well to make sure that keywords are aligned with current trends and industry standards.
Taking the time to clean and spruce up your resume means that you will be more prepared when a new opportunity comes along. You will only have small revisions to make instead of overhauling the whole document.
If you are looking to spring clean your resume and are unsure where to start, let the professionals at Chic Resumes by Grammar Chic lend a hand. We can help you tailor your resume to reflect your greatest strengths and achievements and align with the most current formatting standards. Call (803) 831-7444
(803) 831-7444 or email resumewriting@grammarchic.net to get started.
