When you’re looking for a new job, employers want to see an up-to-date, solid resume. Depending on the specific position you have in mind, you might have a few different resumes: each geared toward a certain industry. While you’re detailing your expertise, do you ever find yourself asking, “What am I missing?” If so, we have a few tips that will show an employer just what you’re made of!
Previous positions
Your previous jobs are obviously the ‘big ticket items’ that you’ll list on your resume. In order to show that you’re a solid candidate, employers want to see a steady work history. Even if you had a ride-sharing gig or worked as a part-time web designer, these are still valid additions to your resume. According to CNBC, roughly 34% of the U.S. workforce has (or has previously held) a ‘side hustle.’ These should be added to your resume to avoid any gaps in your work timeline. Furthermore, if you turned that side hustle into a full-time position, future employers will applaud your perseverance and creativity.
Take stock of your skill set
You might be hiding a talent that could actually boost your career options. Perhaps you helped a friend plan her wedding. You should add ‘event coordinator’ to your resume! Maybe you work as a carpenter by day, but you build hand-crafted furniture on the side. You could add ‘entrepreneur’ to your resume!
Take a good look at what you’ve done in college, in your personal life, or during a short-term internship. You might surprise yourself!
Staffing agency resources
When you apply for work via a staffing agency, you can find various full-time opportunities. Even if your plan is to move into a supervisory role, you might consider a different path to get there. You could start out with something entry-level, like an assembly job. And that position can work to your benefit in many ways. For example, your entry-level job at a manufacturing company might lead to a shift supervisor opportunity. Don’t be afraid to take on something new if there’s growth potential.
Things to keep in mind
If you aren’t happy in your current position, be respectful, and make sure to keep your job search activities private. If word spreads that you’re going to leave, that’s bad for morale and could lead to unfavorable consequences for you. If you’re looking to move forward in your career, change jobs, or even change industries, just consider the effects of your departure. You might want to keep in contact with former co-workers and solidify your professional network. In addition, you might need to use your current employer as a reference. Make sure you aren’t burning any bridges if you plan to resign.
Take the time to examine your long-term goals as well as your overall skill set. There are options for you to consider before sending out a bunch of generic resumes. Emphasize the qualities that set you apart from other applicants. You may find that your next opportunity is closer than you think!
By: Bailey Feldman