Don't Let an Old Resume Hold You Back

Over the years I have talked to a number of poeple who were considering changing jobs but hesitated, either because they have never created a resume, or because it has been too long since their last one. There are many people who delay looking for a new job or changing careers because they don't feel like they want to deal with creating a resume.

In some respects, basic resume formats are the same as they have been for years, but there are some new types of resumes, particularly the electronic version. Before you worry about that; however, you need to start putting your basic information in writing. You should write down every job you have had in the last 10 - 15 years at least, and write a description of each job, including skills demonstrated, tasks completed, and any tools, technology, or machines used. Also write some statements about accomplishments or achievements in each position held. You will also want to write some statements about what you enjoyed in each job. Also list your education - what level of education you have completed, if you have a degree, your major or focus of courses you completed and/or any job related training you have received. It is also a good idea to write down the skills and traits that you possess that you want to use, that will be beneficial to a potential employer.

Once you have gotten that far, you will need to decide the format you want/need to use. Although there are several different resume formats that are acceptable, it is in your best interest to use the format that you feel best presents your background and demonstrates why employers should be interested in your qualifications. There are many resources available to help with resume updating - books, on-line resources, and people. Your completed resume should be a strong representation of you, but a resume is also a work in progress. If you send out some resumes and don't get the responses you had hoped for, you may want to do some fine-tuning to it. But the important thing is to start on it; once you have some things written down, you can make adjustments, as needed. Another benefit to working on your resume is that reading some of what you have done can give you some ideas about things you enjoyed that you would like to add or continue to have in a work situation; it can also be a teriffic boost to your self-esteem.


Mary Ann Davis, M.A. is a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice; providing coaching and counseling for life's transitions in person and at a distance. Her work includes discussions on a variety of life transitions, including career change or job search, as well as loss of job, retirement planning, and grief work. She is recognized as a Master Career Counselor by the National Career Development Association; certified as a Life/Work Counselor by the National Employment Counseling Association; and is a Distance Credentialed Counselor.

Check out her web site at http://www.YourCareerPlan.com. To contact Ms. Davis, please call (513) 665-4444 x3 or send an email to YourCareerPlan@cinci.rr.com.