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How can I improve my resume?
Home » Careers » Resumes » How can I improve my resume?Posted by Your Guide on October 12, 2005 5:21 PM
The question of improving your resume really includes two aspects. First, how should an employee better design a written resume? Second, how should an employee further his/her career towards a desired goal? In this second question, we are concerned with the intangible resume—in other words, gaining the necessary work experience needed to attain a certain job.
The question of improving your written resume is largely a matter of doing your research. Take advantage of websites or career service centers that offer help or tips on resume writing. If it is possible, consult with employees at your current job or friends for help or information on what they look for in a resume.
Many prospective employees often say, “I just came out of college, so I don’t have good work experience.” or “I’ve been out of work for ten years.” Your resume, however, is about what you have, not what you don’t have. If you don’t have much work experience, focus on the volunteer work you’ve done, or on the skills and education you do have. In addition, use your cover letter to briefly explain your situation and demonstrate your willingness to learn in the open position. The goal is to get to the interview. If you can get to the interview, you can discuss those issues at that time, so simply keep your resume honest and positive.
Improving your intangible resume is a more complex issue. Many jobs require the right kind of experience, so if you want that job, you need that experience. That may mean spending fifteen years in jobs you don’t like in order to get to the job you want, and you will need to decide whether it is worth the effort. When you are in a job, you should be focused on it and dedicated to it, but keep your eyes open for opportunities that will provide you with the needed experience and skills to gain your dream job.
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