If you’re looking for a job, but not getting the interviews you want, your resume may be the reason. “Oh, but my resume is just fine,” you think to yourself. But is it really?
Many people write their own resumes. The danger of doing so is that you may not know what employers want to see, you may not give yourself credit for all of your accomplishments, and you may not use wise formatting. For example, does your resume have the following categories?
• Summary
• Professional Experience
• Volunteer Experience
• Awards
• Publications
• Presentations
• Registrations
• Licenses
• Certifications
• Skills
• Leadership
• Training
• Education
You may not need every category, but if you have information that fits these categories, list it. If you only list your jobs, you are short-changing yourself by not providing an overall view of your relevant abilities. One client whose resume I updated stated, “I didn’t even know some of the things I’ve done that mattered until I was questioned.” Another stated, “What a confidence builder to see my resume and realize how much I’ve done!”
Your resume has to be as competitive as others applying for the same job since your resume is your means for obtaining an interview. If you want to stand out from your competition, have a professional create or update your resume for you. That way, you don’t have to worry about tooting your own horn – the professional will be glad to toot it for you!
Hallie Crawford and Terry L. Wynne, Ed.S., LPC, BCC
Certified Career Coaches
P.S. Are you in the ideal career for you? Find out if you’re in the right career with our Ideal Career Quiz.
