Your resume is your first impression. Bullet points listing past responsibilities are dull, forgettable, and only tell where you have been - not where you want to go.
We're here to change that!
Employers are no longer simply looking for a list of past duties.
Use action verbs - instead of "secured funding as a grant writer," use phrases like "Secured $500,000 in funding for a community development project, exceeding annual fundraising goals by 20%."
Quantify using metrics whenever possible.
Identify the key skills required for your target job and weave them throughout your resume. Don't just list them; demonstrate how you've utilized these skills in past experiences.
Tell a story -allow the reader to visualize your impact on previous projects.
Pro Tip: Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) often filter resumes based on keywords. Including relevant keywords from the job description increases your chances of getting past the initial screening.
A strong resume goes beyond just work experience. Consider including these sections to showcase your well-roundedness:
Volunteer Work: Did you volunteer for a cause you care about? Highlight the skills you developed and the impact you made.
Continuing Education: Demonstrate your commitment to professional growth by listing relevant courses, certifications, or workshops you've completed.
Formatting Matters
An easy-to-read resume is crucial. Use clear fonts, maintain consistent formatting, and utilize white space effectively.
Proofread, Proofread, Proofread!
Typos and grammatical errors will have you dropped from an interview opportunity. Proofread your resume meticulously and consider having someone else review it for any errors you might have missed.
Owning Your Career Break
Career breaks happen for various reasons – childcare, travel, or pursuing personal goals. Don't shy away from them. Frame your break in a positive light, highlighting the skills you developed during that time.
(See our post dedicated to framing your career break, for additional suggestions.)
Remember:
Jot down your wins throughout your career. Your resume is a dynamic document; update it regularly.
Bonus Tip: Consider creating a strong online presence with a professional LinkedIn profile that complements your resume, not one that is a copy of your resume.
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