Updating Your Resume

I just read a blog about poorly written resumes.  The author spoke about the errors but didn't give any updating suggestions.  The comments underneath the blog begged for help.  I responded with the following tips.  I hope they can help anyone who needs a place to start.

"I teach job search techniques in the state of NJ and I too have seen some very outdated resumes.  Many of the people who attend the resume preparation classes have never had the time or need to update their resume and still subscribe to the format they learned years ago (objective, references available upon request, etc).
Researching the newer ways to update a resume is as simple as using Google or reading many of the posts from groups in LinkedIn. In a nutshell, I suggest the following:

1. Have an impact statement to replace the objective. This statement should be your selling point and describe why you are so fantastic. Are you a leader? Do you have a proven track record in something? Are you a subject matter expert in something?

2. Align your skills to the skills and competencies listed in the job description/posting. It is fine to have a template resume but it has to be updated for EVERY job that you pursue.

3. I personally like to see a set of about 6 bullets listing your skill set. This way they stand out and catch the eye of the reader.

4. Don't have your resume read like a job description. Make sure you support your statements with specific, quantifiable results. I always say in training, "Sure that is what you did, but what did it result in? More sales? Better customer service? Increased savings?" Next, make those words even more specific by stating percentages, amounts and any other powerful details that will make you stand out.

5. If you have any old performance appraisals, read these to remember what you did and the results. Dig up some of those letters from customers, clients, etc. thanking you for something. What did you do that was so great?

6. Don't forget your transferable job skills - those that can transfer from one job to another or from a volunteer activity to a job. Again, be specific with measurements.

These are just some ideas - do some research. Go to any of the many sites and study the resumes that are displayed to get an idea of how to frame yours. "

Good luck!