Do a search on the Internet about resume and resume writing and you will find millions of tips, articles, comments and blog posts about the topic.
Sometimes the information is confusing and downright conflicting. So what do you trust and what do you throw away?
First thing to remember is that a resume is a strategic marketing tool and not a magic wand. That being said, even when you have the best tools, you still have to know how to use them effectively.
Here are a few misconceptions that you can ignore:
Myth: Resumes aren’t important
While the resume on its own will not land you a job, it is still an important aspect of your job search and career growth.
- Regardless of LinkedIn, bios and other career marketing tools, you will still be asked to provide your resume during your professional career.
- Employers and recruiters are looking to see what you are capable of based upon your experience, education, training and accomplishments.
A resume provides that information in a concise, compelling manner. Nearly every job requires a resume of some sort in the hiring and or interviewing process.
Myth: A resume is your career history
A resume should cover your career history, but it’s more than just a historical document, think of your resume as a sort of marketing card for prospective employers.
- A strategic resume tells the story of what you have done, how well you have done and what you are uniquely capable of doing.
- You can include content about your personal brand, personality traits, and even testimonials that speak to your candidacy for your dream job.
Talk to them about all of the qualities that make you a good employee and why they should hire you. It is normal and acceptable to create an interesting and intriguing resume.
Myth: A resume never changes
Think about this for a moment. You live, grow and evolve everyday, don’t you?
So why would you think that your resume doesn’t need to shift and integrate new strategies?
As you grow in your career, how you market yourself and manage your career content on your resume should also grow with you.
- Keep your resume updated and current even if your are not actively job searching.
- Explore the latest trends and recommendations from resume writing experts.
Remember what your market/industry needed when you started and what it expects now is not the same, nor should you expect it to be.
Treat your resume like a part of you – shape it, evaluate it and adjust where necessary.
What resume myths have you heard recently?
