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The nation's latest jobs report isn't doing much to help those out of work.
Susan Geary with 1st Rate Resumes in Salem stopped by the News 7 Studios Saturday morning with tips on how to make your resume stand out to potential employers.
Geary is also a quadruple certified resume writer and has 5 steps to updating your resume:
1. List one phone number
Research shows that the majority of people under the age of 30 only use a cell phone, so don't give away your age by listing two phone numbers. Use the number you are most likely to be reached at.
2. Microsoft Word doc
The majority of recruiters and HR departments want to see the resume in MS Word doc. Not Works. Not Open Office, a PDF, html, WordPerfect or am RTF. And it needs to be in an earlier version such as 1997-2003 for best compatibility. Not docx.
3. Narrow the gap
A big issue right now is unemployment discrimination, meaning there are some companies who won't even consider a candidate unless they already have a job. If you've been unemployed for more than 6 months, it's time to volunteer, take classes, or highlight your experience as a Stay at Home Parent (aka Family Manager) to do something about the gap.
4. Avoid Functional Resumes
The skills based resume was very popular in the 1990s but Recruiters and Hiring Managers dislike these formats, which highlight skills and accomplishments, because they dont tell the whole story. This format is used to hide problems, and Recruiters see them as a red flag. Use a reverse chronological format whenever possible.
5. Dates
Whenever possible list the months and years, rather than just the years on a resume. Employers prefer this method. But don't list the dates in number (06/2009-11/2010) because they are difficult to decipher. Abbreviate the months using the first 3 letters (Jun 2009 - Nov 2010).
For more advice on your resume, a CareerFest is being held at the Salem Civic Center on Tuesday, September 13th.
Swing by anytime from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
For more information on Salem's 1st Rate Resumes, click here.