All job searches begin — and sometimes end — with the resume. It is the lynchpin. It gets the whole thing started. If it is good, you may get to the interview stage. If it is not, you have to begin again.
So it is vital that your resume is up to date. And that raises the question of how often you should update it. There are some people who do it constantly, while others ignore it until they are looking for a new job. Both of these strategies are a bit extreme. Career advisers offer a more reasonable approach, recommending an overhaul every six to 12 months and after certain milestones – a promotion, completing a big project, earning a certification or degree, or learning a new skill.
An update is more than just tacking on another line or two, but rather reassessing your presentation in light of the new information and integrating the new material adroitly so that it enhances the image you are trying to portray. Here are some things to look at when reviewing your resume.
4 Resume Items You Need To Update Regularly
Summary of Qualifications
When updating, you want to review this important section and revise it as appropriate. This section is a brief overview of your most important accomplishments, experience, knowledge, and skills. Its purpose is to show how you are unique and why you should be hired. It should grab the interest of the hiring manager, so he or she will read more.
Format
Make sure the resume is well organized, so that important information stands out. Make your margins wide with enough white space to break up large blocks of print. The headings should be clear, and the type should be easy to read. Use boldface and italics for information you want to stand out. Bullet points are effective in getting across information in a succinct and compelling way. Use strong action verbs.
Accomplishments
Your resume should focus on your accomplishments, not just the duties of the jobs you had. You need to show how you can impact the bottom line of a company. Include facts and figures to give support to your accomplishments.
Style
Check grammar and spelling. Go through the resume carefully to check that it is grammatically correct. Also, check for consistency – for example, use the same font for the entire resume. If you are using boldface for job titles in one section, you should do it in other sections as well.
Looking for a new job?
Because of our unique approach, Opti Staffing has been able to place thousands of job candidates with employers throughout Alaska, Oregon, and Washington. Contact your local branch to see how we can help you find your next job or your next employee. As we like to say at Opti, “Our success is determined by your success.
