1. Remember that your resume is a marketing piece about you. It is your first chance to show yourself off to any potential employers. Don’t turn it in to a career obituary.

2. Now that you are moving up in the world, avoid language like, “Responsibilities included…” Instead list your “ACCOMPLISHMENTS.”

3. Make sure to include a “Job Objective”. Potential employers may not know what you are looking for if you do not spell it out for them.

4. Brevity is best. When writing a job objective, make it clear and concise. Any extra language is unnecessary and could result in a potential employer quickly losing interest.

5. When including employment history do not go back TOO far. Unless a job from 20 years ago is extremely relevant to the current position, it does not need to be included.

These five tips can only help your resume gain more views and give you an edge in finding the perfect position.

One morning you wake up and realize you are one of many qualified candidates competing for a shrinking number of jobs.  How can you effectively deal with the intense competition without becoming discouraged?  Begin by setting realistic expectations and goals.

Write a Resume That Gets You in the Door

Your resume is a tool with one specific purpose: to win an interview. If it is doing what it is supposed to do, it worked. If it didn’t, it isn’t an effective resume. A resume is an advertisement, nothing more, nothing less.  Get a friend or colleague to review your resume. If they do not understand it, neither will a potential employer.

Re-evaluate Your Approach

Examine what you’ve been good at in the past; understand where you are today; and set goals for tomorrow!  Apply a bit of planning to establish habits that will reposition yourself as a sincere candidate interested in building a career rather than simply landing a job.

Pick-up the Habits of a Highly Effective Job Seeker

• Be Specific – Make sure your resume and relevant skills match the opportunity.
• Be Honest – Stretching the truth is never a good idea and often times will be uncovered.
• Be Precise – Check and re-check your resume and cover letter.
• Be Polite – Be sure the employer can tell you are interested, qualified, and available.
• Be Respectful – Sincerity and humility stand out in a sea of resumes.
• Be Responsive – Employers expect interested candidates to be prompt and punctual.

Begin today by updating your resume! Click on the Job Seekers tab above to get started.