Since the best resumes are fresh, relevant and concise, it pays to keep yours in tip top condition so that you’re ready when that perfect opportunity comes along. With some simple and regular maintenance, it’s easy to keep your resume current and looking its best. Here’s how.
Update your resume to keep the content and style fresh
It’s always easier to make a note of changes as they happen, rather than trying to update a lot of information when you’re applying for a job. Has your job title changed? Update that now. Recently acted in a higher role? Add that to your employment history with a summary of your responsibilities and achievements while they’re still fresh in your mind. Perhaps you’ve learnt a new skill, taken a short course, joined a committee or achieved a new accreditation. Updating this information as it happens means you’re less likely to forget something and your resume is already up to date when you want to apply for a new job.
From time to time, you might also like to update the style of your resume if it’s starting to feel dated. It could be as simple as changing the font or maybe the layout. There are many templates and tools available online to help you find a style that suits you and your personal brand.
Review your resume to keep it relevant
Because goals and priorities change over time, it can be helpful to review your resume for relevance on a regular basis, and especially before applying for a job. Does your resume convey your skills and experience in a way that aligns with your career goals? Is the information in your resume relevant to your next role? What is relevant may change as your career develops. Perhaps your focus has shifted from technical skills to leadership abilities. Or maybe you’re looking to make a lateral move across industries. Whatever your objective, think of your resume as a tool to help you get there. Then make sure your resume is on point and tailored to what you want to achieve.
Refine your resume to keep it concise
As you add to your skills and experience, your resume will naturally grow. But how long is too long? Generally, you want to aim for no more than 2-3 pages. This means you will need to be concise, keeping your writing short and to the point. Look for any long words or wordy phrases that you can cut out. Put the most important details, such as your employment history, on the first page. Use short, punchy dot points to summarise key information that you don’t want to get missed. And don’t be afraid to delete anything that is no longer relevant or important. Refining your resume with these tips in mind will help to keep it on point and concise.
