It's 2021! Which means it's time for a career refresh. If you're looking to make some changes to your resume, we've got you covered. This article covers some tips to help get your resumé updated and ready for the new year so you can start 2021 with a bang. Check out these strategies and kickstart your professional development this year!
You may be feeling anxious about updating your resume in preparation for next year. However, it's not as difficult as you may think. If updating your resumé seems overwhelming, don't worry! We're here to help, and we've got some tips to help get you started.
If this is the first time you've updated your resume in a while, it may seem a bit intimidating–do not fear! We're here to break it down into easy-to-follow steps for you. We'll walk you through what to include in your resume, as well as how to format it–and there's even more detailed information on our blog.
- Debunking resume myths
While it is advisable to keep a list of your career goals and accomplishments handy while updating your resume, you also need to know the facts.
While it is not recommended to list random volunteer work, references, or unrelated certificates on your resume, it's a good idea to keep these on hand for the interview process, but they really don't have any place on your resumé. Here are some myths we need to clear up before you get started.
MYTH: You need to have ten years of experience in order to be qualified for the job.
REALITY: This is a big resumé myth! Most industries don't require a minimum amount of experience, and if they do, that number is very low—for example, 3-5 years.
- Reorder that structure
There are different ways to structure your resume based on the kind of position you're applying for and/or the industry you're in. The most common type of resume is a chronological list of your work history, but there are also different types:
Chronological: This is a list of your jobs, starting with the most recent one and working backward. Chronological resumes are often used when applying for entry-level jobs as they showcase job experience and growth.
Functional: A functional resume is a great option for someone who has been out of the workforce or who wants to highlight their skills rather than their work history.
The headers of a resume should be standardized, including education, experience, summary, and skills. The list of work experiences should be in reverse chronological order. Professional resume writer can help you fast.
- Show off your data
You may have heard the term "data-driven decision" a lot in your lifetime, but what does that mean? Technically, it is a method of thinking that involves critically analyzing the information you have before making a decision or taking action. When updating your resumé, make sure you are quantifying and backing up every accomplishment. Quantifying means giving exact numbers or percentages to describe how much you accomplished.
Data is everything in this case, as a reader cannot tell whether a candidate truly is described by those terms and one who just claims to be. If you are having trouble coming up with numbers, use percentages or statistics. Keep your language simple, too. The key to making information stand out on your resume is to use strong action verbs that highlight your skills and accomplishments.
Stay away from overused buzzwords like "action-oriented," or "hard-working." You may already use these, but they have lost their original meaning. Instead, choose active verbs that describe the specific actions you took in a previous job.
- The bots are your friend
ATS, or Applicant Tracking Systems, are built to scan your resume and determine if you're the right fit for the job. Some ATS can be kind of tricky to work around, especially when it comes to formatting things such as dates and names, but trust us–it's worth it! If you format your resume correctly, you'll increase your chances of getting past the screener and into an interview.
Some resumé scanning software is so advanced that there's really no way to sneak a false fact past it.
Make your contact information easy to read. Keep your name at the top of the page and always include your full name, including middle and last name. This is one area that is very important to get right! Make sure you include your contact information in an obvious place, so it's easy for the hiring manager to call you.
Moreover, it is recommended to create several resumes that are tailored to different job descriptions. Every job description has certain keywords that are used on a regular basis, such as "hard-working" and "go-getter." Make sure to include these keywords in your job description, but keep them to a minimum.
- Looking at LinkedIn differently
Using LinkedIn to create a customized URL makes it easy to share. It also looks neat and tidy. After you have created an account, it's time to fill out your profile. LinkedIn has a section for "Work Experience", as well as "Education". While both are important, we recommend focusing on the Work Experience section first and making that stand out.
You already know that the education section is not the most important part of your LinkedIn profile, but since you're here, make sure to include all of your professional certifications and programs as well as schools attended.
One Last Thing
The process of updating your resumé might sound daunting, but it's worth it! Whether you're just coming out of school or returning to the workforce after a long time off, focus on creating a clear document that highlights your skills and accomplishments. By following these steps, you will ensure that your resume is an in-depth reflection of who you are! You can also try to find best resume writing services to make perfect resume.
