November 27, 2023
Question:
I haven’t looked at my resume in quite a while. While I’m dusting it off do you have any other professional related advice as we go into 2024?
Answer:
An excellent question for those looking to change jobs or who simply want to update and polish their credentials.
So, you’re on the right track with your resume. Most people update their resume to find a new job and then quickly forget it. It’s a good idea to add your new job and all your relevant accomplishments. Many folks include keywords/skills at the top of the resume so automated resume reviewers can easily spot them.
Another good idea is to remove jobs past 15 or so years. You are presenting your most current and relevant accomplishments. If you feel like you can’t remove older positions, you can add a section called Additional Experience and list them (without dates).
Once your resume is in good shape, update your LinkedIn profile. It’s where recruiters go first to look for candidates. Listing skills will also help when those recruiters are searching for a specific role or skill set.
Many LinkedIn pros will also tell you to like, comment, post and follow to boost your profile. If you do comment, make sure there are no typos, and your comment is relevant and pertinent. Remember everyone in your and your colleague’s network will see it.
At the risk of overwhelming you, I do have one more piece of advice which is maintaining your professional network. Most people only go back to their network when they need it usually due to a job loss. Why don’t you start slow. Contact one person in your network a week or even every two weeks and make a coffee or lunch date. Use the opportunity to catch up both professionally and personally (if that’s appropriate). This is a much more natural way of maintaining and growing your network and will make it easier to go back to them when you really need to.
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