Are you worried that your resume might be outdated? You’re not alone. Many mid-level managers struggle with creating a resume that stands out from the competition. But before you start worrying about every little detail, let’s make sure you aren’t making any of these common mistakes. By avoiding these errors, you’ll be well on your way to having a resume that is both accurate and up to date. Read on to learn what the mistakes are, how to fix them, and make sure your document shines above the rest.
Replace a Generic Opening | Objective Statement with A Branded Summary Statement
You are unique. Your experiences and the value you offer are unique. Read through your resume from the perspective of the employer. Does the opening sound like a hundred other candidates or does it reveal your personal brand via a unique value proposition?
It doesn’t matter the level of employment you are seeking —the first third of any resume should introduce the reader to your career story and why you are the best candidate for the role. It should begin with a hook, summarize who you are and what you have to offer as well as a highlight of how your qualifications
Avoid Focusing Duties / Responsibilities
As you begin to craft your experience section, think beyond what your job description states and what you do/did on a daily basis. The truth is employers are already familiar that type of information and are wanting proof of your ability to deliver the results they are looking for in their next candidate.
– Rather than telling a potential employer about your duties and responsibilities, share examples of how you made a difference by delivering results.
– Remember to maintain focus on answering the employer’s question “how will you perform this job better than others —what skills + experience do you possess that will help you overcame the challenges they are facing and provide solutions.
– Include metrics whenever possible.
Concentrate on Marketing Your Results
The key to a great resume is to give the reader information to remember you by —candidates in the same role/industry as you all have the same job description, but not everyone has delivered the same results as you have. Ask yourself ‘what happened next’ —after you managed the team, closed out the project, negotiated that contract.?
– How did your actions / management skills set you apart?
– Include awards, major contributions, names of well-known clients (unless confidential) or the value of the contract or project.
Eliminate Fluff + Filler
From start to finish, your resume must emphasize your contributions and accomplishments. Read through your finished resume and translate buzz words and overused phrases into strong action-oriented statements that showcase how you’ve delivered results.
To Recap:
- Highlight Your Brand: Replace a generic opening or objective statement with a summary statement that showcases your brand.
- Avoid Listing Duties / Responsibilities: Employers already know what duties + responsibilities are associated with the role and are looking for proof of your ability to deliver results.
- Market Your Accomplishments: Provide the reader with information that they will remember you by —ask yourself ‘what happened next’.
- Eliminate Unnecessary Information: Find alignment between where your skills + experience intersect with the employer’s needs and then use strong, action-oriented statements that showcase your ability to deliver!
If you are looking to transition into a new role in 2022, I’m here to help. From writing resume to cover letters and LinkedIn profile, presenting + optimizing the ‘right’ information is what will help you breakthrough to interviews!
Leave A Comment