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How Often Should You Update Your Resume?

You may think of your resume as a static document; one that’s only necessary when you’re searching for a new job. But really, your resume should always be a work in progress.

So just how often should you be updating it?

You should be updating, adding to and refining your resume a few times a year. If you wait and do it only once a year – or not at all – it’s hard to remember all your achievements and accurately communicate them.

Instead, after each new project or accomplishment, add it to your resume. Keep in mind, the purpose of your resume is to get specific – what you did, how you did it, and what you achieved as a result.

What if you’ve been unemployed for a while?

If you’ve been unemployed for a few months, your resume will start to look stale. In addition, employers generally don’t like gaps on resumes.

To overcome this, seek out a volunteer, part-time or contract opportunity via one of Jackson’s employment agencies. Not only will you expand your network and strengthen your skill set, but you’ll also be able to add it to your resume, freshening the document up in the process. In addition, you’ll show hiring managers that you’re highly motivated and ready to get back to work full-time.

What if you’re not looking for a new job?

Even if you’re not looking for a new job, you never know when a great opportunity could come along. To help you get your foot in the door – and get an interview, here are a few more tips you can use to enhance your resume:

  • Focus on accomplishments. While it’s important to describe your past roles, it’s even more important to promote your results in them. Quantify them where you can.
  • Include the most relevant information for the position. That means you’ll have to customize your resume for each unique opportunity.
  • Don’t list every job you’ve ever had. For instance, if you’re 20 years into your career, don’t include that job you had delivering pizzas when you were in college.
  • You want to appear active and involved. So mention the professional or alumni associations you belong to, or the volunteer work you do.

Keep in mind: Your resume is a marketing tool. You need to promote your skill level and your strengths through it in order to achieve your career goals. That’s why it’s important to ensure it’s up to date with the latest information.

For more on marketing yourself in a job search, check out this post.

And if you’d like expert help in finding a new job, call Staffers. As one of Jackson, Mississippi’s top employment agencies, we will work with you to find the companies and positions that will help you achieve your goals and enhance your skills.

Contact us today or search our Jackson jobs now.

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