Some people claim that resumes are no longer an important aspect of a job search, but experts disagree. Resumes provide a summary of your skills and experiences in a format that employers can quickly scan and digest. Although other forms of presenting your professional experiences are available, the resume is still king of the job search.
According to resume writer Lisa Rangel, who works for the company Chameleon Resumes in New York, the process of writing a resume is helpful for your job search. Writing a resume involves cherry-picking the skills and experiences that are most relevant for your job search. This process not only creates a summary of your professional life for potential employers, but also forces you to think about how your skills relate to the roles for which you are applying. As a result, you will be more able to respond to questions in an interview.
Many of the critics of resumes complain that they contain too much information. There is no need to include experiences from 20 years ago on your resume, unless they are particularly relevant to your current job search.
If you are applying for a job in finance after many years of working in that sector, there is no need to include the job you had working in a local store when you were 16. However, if you decide to switch career paths, jobs from many years ago might be relevant if they demonstrate that you have transferable skills.
Resumes in general are not outdated, but if you haven't looked at yours for years, it is likely that it needs a refresh. Resume writers say you should refresh your resume every few months even if you are not looking for a job, so that it is always an accurate reflection of your skills and experiences. Check the contact information on your resume, such as the phone number and email, to ensure it is up to date.
When it comes to formatting your resume, traditional formats are usually the safest option. Avoid fancy fonts, colored paper or text, and photos; instead, opt for a classic, professional style.
Some people claim that a LinkedIn profile can be a substitute for a resume these days. However, Rangel argues that LinkedIn and resumes should work together to present a full picture of a job candidate. Be sure to update both your LinkedIn profile and your resume so they contain consistent information and keep it strictly professional.
A good resume can support your job search and help you find a new job. By sticking to a standard professional format and updating your resume at least once every few months, you can give your job search the largest possible chance of success.
Photo courtesy from Sarah R at Flickr.com
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