Learning how to create a recession-proof resume can be very difficult. However, it is essential to ensure a successful job search.
How do you make a resume that will get you noticed, called for an interview, and hired during a recession when the rate of unemployment is at an all-time high?
The answer to this question is to write an excellent resume that shows you are an outstanding employee who is worth hiring.
Fortunately, writing a recession-proof resume that attracts attention and sells you to employees is easier than most people think. If you have been out of the job force for some time or haven’t had to change jobs, you may be a little rusty at writing a resume.
How to Write an Excellent Resume
There are many things to consider when writing the perfect, recession-proof resume. Here are some ideas to get you started in the right direction.
Find the Recession-Proof Resume Template
The first step in creating a resume is to find a good resume template. You can find this in Microsoft Word and continue from there. It is pretty easy to tailor one according to your specifications.
If you don’t have Microsoft Word and plan to email your resume, download Open Office for free. It is compatible with Microsoft Word, and if it is saved in Rich Text Format can be opened and read with almost any program.
Start with the Basics
When you create a resume, list the basics first. This should include your experience and background, your education, and your skills. You don’t need to list your salary history or requirements unless the employer asks for it.
Never put your references on a resume; you should list those on a separate document. You can forward references to an employer at a later stage if they ask for them.
Keep it Short and Simple.
Keep your resume short and simple. Highlight education, skills, and experience. Most employers will glance at your resume for only a few seconds, and all they’ll be looking at is your qualifications for the job. If they like what they see, they’ll look further.
Communicate You Are Reliable
After experience, skills, and education, employers look for stability. They want to see that you’re capable of holding down a job and working with others.
A list of short-term jobs, ones you’ve held for less than six months, indicates that you can’t keep a job. In a recession, employers are pickier and more likely to throw out resumes that look as though the person isn’t reliable.
At the same time, don’t be afraid to list temporary or contract work, especially if it’s related to the position you’re applying for. Be sure to differentiate between your full-time and temporary/contract jobs.
Don’t Be Arrogant
Finally, don’t appear to be too egotistical on your resume. Be truthful about your skills and accomplishments. There’s nothing wrong with stating facts, but being self-righteous is unprofessional. A prospective employer wants a team player, not a person who considers themselves better than the other employees.
Employers look for specific personality types when trying to fill a job vacancy. One personality type that many human resources managers try to weed out is too aggressive or over-ambitious. They do this because these people can often be disruptive in the workplace and may discourage customers.
Most employers prefer a person who appears to be a team player or, at the very least, someone who is willing to get along with others.
Do you have any other tips to offer fellow job seekers for landing jobs in a tough economy? Comment and share below! If your job search could use a boost, reach out to Candace to learn more!