Consider the following when writing your resume.
- A clear and concise format: Use a clean and easy-to-read design that highlights your key information.
- A professional summary: This should be a brief overview of your qualifications, skills, and experience that highlights your most relevant assets.
- A list of relevant skills: Use keywords that match the job requirements and highlight your relevant skills and qualifications. Make sure the experience and skill you are highlighting line up to the role you are targeting.
- A list of accomplishments: Use specific examples to demonstrate your achievements and how you have added value in your previous roles. Key point here is to use numbers and percentages where possible as these interrupt the reader and can draw interest. i.e – 25%, top 3.
- A list of relevant experience: Highlight your most recent and relevant experience, including job titles, employers, and dates of employment.
- Education and qualifications: Include your highest level of education, any relevant degrees or certifications, and any relevant coursework.
- Relevant certifications and awards: Include any relevant certifications or awards you have received that demonstrate your skills and qualifications.
- Relevant professional memberships: Include any professional memberships or affiliations you have that are relevant to the job.
- Contact information: Include your name, email address, phone number, and LinkedIn profile or professional website.
- Tailor your resume for the job you are applying for: Make sure to tailor your resume for the specific job you are applying for. Use keywords and phrases lining up with those used in the job posting and make sure to highlight the skills and qualifications that align with the job requirements.
What about gaps or elements that I’m missing from my resume?
Honesty is key, so consider preparing a brief explanation for the gap, whether it was due to personal reasons, caring for a family member, or further education. Another strategy is to use a functional or skills-based resume format that emphasizes your skills and accomplishments, rather than your chronological work history.
Additionally, consider any freelance or volunteer work that you may have done during the gap period, as this can demonstrate your ongoing commitment to learning and developing new skills. Networking and attending career events can also help you stay up to date with industry trends and opportunities. Be sure to highlight your transferable skills, and show how they can be applied in a new role, to demonstrate your continued value to potential employers.
Any certifications, education or experience you are missing from the list above is simply an opportunity to grow. In the search for your dream job, you’ll find out what qualifications you are missing and may need to develop. When you are faced with gaps in your resume, it is important to approach the situation proactively and even plan ahead to make sure you are still maintaining your development with experiences related to your career.