Writing and maintaining your resume isn’t easy. It’s tempting to send off the same document
you’ve always used and hope that it impresses employers enough to interview you. However, if
you really want that dream job, your resume counts more than you might think. Want to know
when it’s time to update your resume? Keep reading to find out.
It’s been over a year
If it’s been a while since you even thought about your resume it’s time for an update. It’s
important to look at your resume as an ever-changing tool that grows with you. If you’re using
the same resume from decades ago, you’re missing big opportunities. Think about that
document and what changes you can make to highlight who you are and what you do.
Personal information
You do want to include contact information on your resume. However, potential employers don’t
need to know your age or your home address. If this information is still on your resume, it’s got
to go. Free up space to show off experience or write an engaging statement about yourself.
Career change
Have you done a 180 in your professional life? If so, you’ll want to take another glance at your
resume. Why? It’s likely that you’ll need to showcase different roles you’ve had and other skills.
Employers want to know what makes you the right candidate. If you’re changing industries, your
old resume won’t do you much good.
Irrelevant Experience
Your potential employer doesn’t care about the summer job you had at the ice cream shop as a
teenager. In most cases, you should only include work experience from the last 10-15 years.
When you list every job you’ve ever had, the roles that do matter get buried in pages of text that
your potential employer may not sift through. Make it easy for them to see why they should
interview you.
No skills
The skills section is part of the resume that many people overlook. This is a big mistake. We’re
always learning, and your resume is a great place to show that off. So list that new software
you’ve mastered or what your takeaway was from your last big project. These are the things that
make you stand out.
Wrapping Up
If the tips in this post apply to you, it’s time to take a look at your resume. Remember, having a
great resume is the first step to presenting yourself as the right fit for your next job. Want to
update your resume? We can help. Book a free career consultation and resume review with
iCareerSolutions now.
