Keeping your resume updated means you’re ready for whatever happens whenever it happens. Here are some specific situations that require an updated resume – now. It takes time to create a great marketing tool: The main reason to create and maintain an updated resume is that it takes time to put a good resume together — whether you’re writing it yourself or having a professional
When should you update your resume? Now. Your current job is uncertain: One of the most common reasons to update your resume when you’re not actively looking for a job is because you don’t have a good feeling about your current situation. Is there a lot of turnover in your current job or the company overall? Have there been rumors of layoffs, or did the
Many job seekers hear that a resume MUST be only one page long or it will be “thrown out.” So, let’s put that to rest. There is no “rule” that a resume should be one page. Length is only one consideration for a resume’s effectiveness. Jobseekers are being misled that recruiters, hiring managers, and HR professionals won’t read a resume that is longer than one
The last thing you should do with your new resume is commit to keeping it updated. Your resume isn’t a one-and-done sort of document. It is a living project that requires attention at least quarterly. If you don’t already have one, start a “brag” file. This can be a file folder or a folder on your computer that you use to collect items for updating
There have been several studies that say that up to 60% of jobs are filled through networking. You can ask people for information and advice, or ask them if they know of any job openings. If you are conducting an open job search (that is, you’re not trying to keep your job search quiet from your current employer), the more people you tell you’re searching,
Your LinkedIn profile should align with your resume, although the two should not be exactly the same. The work history listed in your profile should definitely match up with your resume — this is an easy check for prospective employers to make. However, your profile should complement — not duplicate — your resume. And every time you have done something new you have to update
How do you get your resume into the hands of a recruiter? The simplest answer is: Many times, recruiters will find you. If you have an up-to-date profile on LinkedIn and a desirable list of skills, it’s not unusual for you to be contacted by a recruiter who would like to place you with a client company. LinkedIn is also a great way to locate
Applying for positions — whether advertised or unadvertised — is the top use for your resume once you have it. But it’s certainly not the last item on your “to do” list. Working with a recruiter may be one strategy you consider in your job search. You may be approached by a recruiter (sometimes called a “headhunter”), or you may wish to make contact yourself.
The simplest way to start your company research is on a search engine, like Google or Bing. Google the company. Visit their website, but also look for news releases they’ve published (these can spotlight new products and services that might lead to new job opportunities in the near future), and links to trade industries and other sources that can give you additional insight into the
The bad news about applying for advertised positions is that many of them don’t actually exist. Many online job postings are from companies THINKING about hiring, work-at-home schemes, insurance sales, or worse – phishing trips and scams. In fact, your chances of landing a position advertised online is about 3 percent. The good news is you can also use your resume to apply for unadvertised
