Career Advice You Should Never Follow
Cracking into today’s very competitive job market can be tough. While looking for a new career can certainly be intimidating, there is something that can give you a strong edge over other candidates. That, of course, is a striking resume.
While you may know how to properly format a resume, you first need to obtain the kind of experience that will convince employers that you are a valuable commodity. With that in mind, here are five great tips for building your resume that can have you climbing the corporate ladder in no time.
Focus on Accomplishments
You need to think beyond simply listing all of your previous work experience. Instead, you should also be listing very specific accomplishments. If you were named employee of the month, held some type of leadership role, or headed a very important and successful project for your previous employer, then certainly include that in your resume.
Remove Insignificant Experience
You also need to find a way to trim the fat off of your resume. If you’ve graduated from college, listing items related to high school can come off as amateurish. You also don’t have to list every single job you’ve ever worked. Instead, include the most recent work experience that is relevant to the position you are applying for.
Continue Your Education
Even if you are working, continuing your education is a wise idea. That is because the more education that you have, then the more doors that are opened to you. For example, a person who works has gotten their masters in organizational development is more likely to get the job when they are compared to those who may only have their bachelors, even if they got it online. By taking steps to further your education now, either online or in a physical setting, you will make it easier for you to obtain the career advancements that you will be seeking in the future.
Research the Company
One mistake many applicants make is submitting the same resume to every company. Instead, do the proper research into what a particular company does, its history and its corporate culture. That way, you can craft your resume in a way that better matches what that business is looking for.
List Volunteer Experience
While volunteering for a charity, your local community or church may not be directly related to a position that you are applying for, it can show that you have great leadership skills and go the extra mile to make a difference. In that way, this type of experience can certainly be a plus on a resume.
Overall, put a lot of thought and effort into how you build your resume. It should also be an ongoing process. As you gain new experience, education and accomplishments, your resume should evolve and improve as well.