New Year New Resume

Executives: Why a New Year = New Resume!

It happens every January โ€“ professionals and top leaders assess their situations, make short and long-term career goals, and vow to make changes in the upcoming year. Many will decide it’s time to seek progression or even tackle a different career. Even if you are not actively looking for work, it is strongly recommended that you resolve to spend some time on your executive resume at the start of each new year. Think New Year = New Resume. The reason is that what worked in the past may not work in the year ahead.

 

Resumes continue to evolve, and new trends emerge. Updating your resume yearly will ensure it is fresh and current. You never know when you may stumble across the perfect executive job opportunity, be approached to apply for a role that will advance your career, or suddenly change your work situation. Preparing your resume in advance will eliminate the stress of getting it ready under pressure. In addition, re-evaluating your resume allows you to reassess your skills and ensure your unique value proposition and personal brand are on track with future career goals. Keeping your brand honed, your notable skills present, and your resume polished in alignment with current trends will make a future job search easier…and faster!


Even top executives find updating their resume a daunting task.

Here are a few simple tips to help you stay on task and get it done right:

1. Capture big business impacts over the past year and note supporting metrics (revenue growth, sales expansion, etc).ย  These hard-hitting achievements and skills will help you better understand your value and add rich detail to your resume.
2. Add relevant achievements, awards, skills, and employment details to the resume. The most important information should appear at the top of the first page. Only your best points need to be included in the file.
3.ย Remove dated or irrelevant information to make room for new details. The resume should not change in length, only in content.ย  Think quality of content versus quantity.ย  Executive resumes are typically between 2 to 3 pages and no more.
4. Make certain the resume reflects appropriate keywords and current industry jargon.ย Keyword-rich resumes are critical.ย  Not sure what keywords to include?ย  Research job postings similar to the roles you covet, which include many clues.
5. Finally, keep the resume fluid and revisit it each time an opportunity is pursued.ย  An executive resume is a living document that must be customized for every role.ย  One stagnant or unfocused resume will not ‘speak’ to diverse audiences and role requirements.

 


As you move into a new year, ensure your resume shows progression and growth, no matter your current role or title. If you cannot add much to your resume at the start of each year, resolve to find ways to make yourself more marketable. Expand your skill sets inside and outside the workplace by joining professional associations, attending conferences, participating on a board, enrolling in skill booster courses, or volunteering within the community. Investing in yourself is an investment in your future.

 

Adrienne Tom

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