I’m often asked if a resume is really necessary. This is my standard answer:
Resumes do not get you a job. They get you an interview.
So, if you can land interviews consistently without a resume, yeah, you probably don’t need one.
If you’re like the 99% of the rest of the population, though, then you do.
Even when you’ve networked and landed an interview with someone you know, it’s likely they’ll want to see some evidence of your education and experience, i.e., your resume.
Sloppy and unprofessional is the last impression you want to make, so here are a few tips to sharpen your resume:
- Customize the intro.
If your resume says you’re in sales, and the company you’re applying to is hiring a “sales manager,” you’ll want to adjust the wording to reflect the position. Then create a short summary to support your qualifications.
- Tailor your skills and accomplishments.
Some skills and accomplishments are more important to certain job posts than others. Make sure that your most relevant achievements come first and stand out.
- Be clear.
Describe what you did and how it benefited the company/organization you were working for. Add numbers to demonstrate scope of work whenever possible. For example: “Achieved monthly sales goals by empowering a staff of 10+ sales representatives.”
And if your resume is in bad shape, consider hiring a professional. Yes, it’ll cost you, but it’s an investment you’ll recoup very quickly.
Not sure if yours is up to par? I’ll be happy to give it a free, 15-minute critique right here.
