Resume, resume, resume. It’s the ticket to getting that dream job you’ve always wanted. Having the perfect resume might seem impossible if you don’t know what employers are looking for.
It might feel like they want an extravagant and pristine resume, but really they just want to get a sense of who you are and make sure that you’re professional. This doesn’t mean drastic revisions. All you might need to do is brush up the one you’ve got and made it stand out with these simple tips.
Focus on Your Special Skills
The best thing to add to your resume is skills. The great thing about skills is that the category is broad. This means that you can add almost anything that isn’t directly work experience into this section and make your skills sound applicable to any job. Maybe you learned code languages like JavaScript or Python during a class/job. Don’t leave these niche skills off the page! Your potential employers might think these skills could be useful when you get hired. If you used programs like As and a or Slack during a previous job, definitely add that to your resume. Employers like to see that you are familiar with these programs.
If your skills section is lacking, it’s never too late to add. You might think it isn’t necessary but learning a second language puts you at an advantage when looking for a job. Within the U.S., learning Spanish, French, or Chinese will help you advance your career.
And if you don’t have any licenses or certificates to boost your qualifications and skill set, consider enrolling in a training program to add to your list of qualifications. A contractors license offers plenty of skills, and depending on the state a license can be applied for many jobs throughout the country. You also can work independently as your own boss. Licenses are impressive to employers in any field–they show you have work experience and that you’re professional.
Travel for Work (if Possible)
Now I know what you’re thinking. Traveling is expensive, especially having to relocate for work. But this doesn’t have to mean anything drastic. If your current employer has opportunities for business trips, take them. Even if it’s just to another city within the same state, the travel experience is valued highly by employers.
If they see that you’ve been outside the town you work in, you become more worldly. Having interactions with people from different cultures makes you a better team player. It shows that you know how to work well with individuals who have completely different world views.
Take Unique and Interesting Opportunities
This could mean anything. If you’ve wanted to go on a road trip with friends, go for it. Going out with co-workers after work could also be an opportunity. If you’re feeling adventurous, maybe taking on that difficult project that your boss wants you to. No matter what opportunities you take, they can always be spun into something to put on your resume. Maybe you gained driving skills from that road trip, interpersonal skills from going out, and problem-solving from that project. There is always something to be learned from doing new things. You should be aware of your comfort zone and slowly push it farther out. Start small, taking on projects you normally wouldn’t. Then go as big as you want, heading projects or suggesting new business practices. Whatever you think will help you become a better person and employee.
Bottom Line
You can always make your resume look better. Once you find the job of your dreams, you just need to tailor your resume to those opportunities. Whether it’s learning new skills or doing things you normally wouldn’t, think of every life experience as a resume builder.