You're a young professional, and you're sitting at your desk wondering if what you’re doing really matters. You're hopeful that it does, but you feel a sense of restlessness, and you prefer to be doing something that "lights your fire."
Yep -- I get it, and a little discontent is fine if it's going to drive you to your next level.
However, your transition to your next level may stall if you're unprepared. A solid resume is an absolute necessity, and you might find yourself constantly disappointed without one.
We all know that COVID has done a number on our workforce, and it is changing significantly. So many companies are hiring, and many others just like you are on the lookout for their next grand opportunity. That’s why it’s important for you to make sure your resume is up to par.
I hire people all the time which means that I regularly review resumes looking for the ideal candidate to fill a role. Needless to say, as a hiring manager, I don't have much time to review all applications with a fine-tooth comb. I spend most of my time on the ones that shine.
So, how do you get your resume to rise to the top of the stack? What strategies can you use to highlight your skills and expertise as well as a bit of your personality and characteristics that matter in the workplace?
Think about these three (3) things that will help your resume to rise to the top of the (digital) stack and get the attention of a busy hiring manager.
3 Must-Haves of a Solid Resume and Cover Letter
1. Cut the Fluff: No one has time to read two pages full of fluff that say so much without saying anything at all. Colorful language is okay when it actually brings light to who you are and what you can do. Adding examples to support your claims about being a "dependable and highly motivated team player" will enhance your materials.
Also, don't add anything that isn't true! You should anticipate explaining more about any experiences you list in your materials, and a lie will diminish (or likely eliminate) your chances. Besides, people of God don't lie -- not even on a resume (right?!). We are people of integrity in everything that we do.
2. Customize to the Organization: For the sake of those like me who will review your resume, I beg of you to please avoid the use of generic templates that have been pulled off the internet and don’t speak to the organization or explain why you're a good fit. Hiring managers want to know that you have an understanding of the organization, its mission and values, and the job that you're applying for. Do your homework and be intentional about connecting your background and experiences to the job that you're interested in. Speak the language of the industry and tailor your cover letter to the organization. It may seem a bit more time consuming to do it this way, but it'll help put the spotlight on your resume and cover letter.
3. Edit: Now listen, precious people (in my Mama Edna’s voice lol), don't you dare click submit until you've edited your resume. Hiring managers will spend little to no time on resumes that are laced with errors. Among other things, it sends the message that your written (and possibly spoken) communication is lacking, and this may impact your role if hired. Instead, have someone take a look at your resume to provide valuable feedback. (Shameless plug: I'm an editor too, and I'd be happy to help you with this.)
The ultimate goal is to live in purpose and with greater intentionality, and it's possible to find meaningful work that will help you to do just that. So, clean up that resume and cover letter as a next step on your journey to live richly every day.
Thanks in advance for liking and sharing, and I invite you to subscribe to the blog! #WealthInWisdom #PersonalWholeness #Blog #Coaching #Purpose #ProfessionalMillenials #GreaterIntentionality
Comments