Since September is International Update Your Resume month, I want to give you some ideas on how to make changing the information on your resume easy and thorough. So what can you do to update it? You can:
- Look at your resume and compare it to your current career goals – If it has been some time since you have done this, you will notice some differences. This is especially true if you have taken a new position since your last resume update. Your resume should align with your career goals.
- Verify your personal information – Email, phone number, and address. Make sure what you have listed is correct. Note: Do not use employer information as your contact information.
- Make a list – Any accomplishments, awards, education, or special achievements look great on a resume and reflect improvement and growth.
Having an updated resume on hand will prepare you for the unexpected events that require a resume. Events such as:
- Job opportunities – Even if you are not looking for a new position, one might happen, or a great promotion might become available. You want to look and feel prepared.
- Company reorganization – Sometimes this type of situation is expected, but often it is a surprise to those impacted by this scenario.
- Annual performance review – You can expect this, however, are you are not always prepared. You need to be able to discuss your merits with your boss and outline your achievements easily.
While you are updating your resume, you should also look at LinkedIn. There are possibly changes needed to be made on your profile page to make it align with your newly updated resume.
This may seem like a lot of work, however, the benefits are great. The hour or two you take to complete all of these updates will place you one step ahead of the rest of your cohorts. You will not be in a panic when the unexpected occurs. You will instead, be prepared.
