A good resume is essential even if you’re not actively looking for a job. You never know when an opportunity might arise and it’s best to be prepared. Plus the process of building a strong resume can help you articulate what you bring to the table, which can be useful in annual reviews, salary negotiations, lobbying for promotions, etc.
With my marketing background and advertising career I know a lot about crafting language to optimally present your credentials. Someone reading your resume should walk away with a clear impression of you as someone who can make things happen, not just someone who performs functions. So you’ll want to use words like created, spearheaded, initiated, strengthened, improved, etc. Minimize the use of phrases like “responsible for;”
After all, you can be responsible for something and still do a poor job of executing it.
But it’s not just about words – the look of your resume is important as well. So critiquing the layout and type font is something I do as well.
You do need to start with a “basic” (I.e. non-tailored) document that presents you in the best light. But if you’re applying for jobs you need to make sure that the resume is tightly tailored to the specs of your prospective position. “One size fits all” is a recipe for a sub-par resume in those situations.
Finally, creating a powerful LinkedIn profile is a related, and about as important, project. There should be many similarities between your profile and your resume; sometimes it makes sense for them to be exactly the same.
“Jim Weinstein is a career coach not only with a Harvard MBA, but with over two decades of experience as both a business executive and a licensed psychotherapist. Impressive, right? It’s this variety of education, experience, and skill that has landed him firmly on our list of the best resume writers in DC. Jim’s experience as a psychotherapist can give him a leg up in working through how to best position you for success. His expertise is often featured in The Washington Post and the Washingtonian.” -Find My Profession
“Jim Weinstein, MBA helps clients land their dream jobs with competitive career consultation. With 20 years of experience, he has helped many clients make successful career transitions. Furthermore, they counsel clients in various ways that help them be more productive. In addition, they are delighted to provide coaching in a comfortable, relaxed, and enriching environment.” -Kev’s Best
“They provide full-service coaching for all job-seeking applicants. Furthermore, their services include marketing help, career help, and career coaching. They also provide resume help and career transition services.” -Jeanie Burford, Reporter
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