Looking for a new position in 2022? A lot has changed in the last two years when it comes to searching for jobs, so if you’re starting to think about switching careers, re-entering the workforce, or looking for remote work, one thing’s for sure: You’re going to need a polished, professional resume.
We asked six local female industry experts for their resume writing tips to make your submission stand out from the crowd.
JAYLAN FISHER, CEO OF GOAL FIT, LLC
“Add a ‘Key Project’ bullet point under your professional experience for each individual company. Here is where you can pull out a highlight from your position that you are proud of, in addition to your responsibilities! It is a good place to highlight a specific project, accomplishment, or goal that you surpassed that will add value to your new career of interest.”
Peggy Hogan, Vice President of Talent Services at Purple Ink HR
“Consider adding an additional sheet to your resume with quotes from people like former bosses or influencers with whom you’ve worked. Or, add one quote right in your resume if you have room.”
Amber Cleveland, Recruitment Marketing Consultant and Social Media Strategist
“The best way to polish your resume is to take a fresh look at it and put yourself in the hiring manager or recruiter’s shoes. Only include positions with relevant or contributing experience to the role for which you are applying. I often receive resumes that contain all the work experience that people have ever had, but it isn’t helpful to know what job someone performed 20 years ago, because I only have a few minutes to consider each resume.”
Photo: Starla Mathis
Kristen Lampkin, owner of HR Guru LLC:
“The words that you use to describe your work history, skills, and qualifications can be the difference between an impressive and a non-impressive resume. Action verbs, like ‘improved’ or ‘collaborated,’ for example, are words that are inherently eye-catching and can attract more of your potential recruiter’s attention.”
Liberty Wilken, D&I Talent Strategy Partner at Genentech:
“Before submitting a resume for a role, read and understand the minimum qualifications and additional skills and preferences listed on the job description, and make sure that your resume reflects what the job posting is asking for. Truly understanding the job description will help you be successful in the job interview process.”
Jacqueline Martinez, Career + HR Coach, and owner of Off the Record HR:
“One thing I’ve found to be incredibly impactful is to write your career story into your resume. Here are a few examples: 1. Frame your career transitions (keep them honest) and write them into your resume. 2. Supply your reader with a bit about your companies’ products and where they are located, and 3. Write your intro like you’re talking directly to the person reading it. I find these things so helpful as a recruiter — it really makes the person stand out without me digging all over the internet to find out about their history!”
Stephanie Groves is Indy Maven’s new Executive Editor, so hopefully, she won’t be looking for a new job any time soon.
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