Resumes Created in a Day
The search for the perfect resume and the ideal time to create or update one may last forever for those suffering from self-doubt and lack of focus. You know you need a resume to start and complete your job search. In fact, you should have a current resume whether or not you are currently seeking new employment because you never know when you might be approached or recruited by an employer who desires your skills and experience. Ironically, if you delay your resume writing and subsequent job search, you also delay the ultimate positive reinforcement that comes with interviews and, yes, offers.
Some Excuses
The reasons and excuses for avoiding creating and updating a resume are too numerous to name. The following examples show how futile and pointless these excuses are in the face of such an important need, the need for a powerful resume.
I can't find my old version, and I don't have time to create a new one.
I don't have enough money to pay for one of those professional resume developers, so I'll wait.
I can't seem to get it to one page, so it's hopeless.
I missed the deadline for that job posting, so I have some time before I need to finish my resume.
I don't know what employers want to see, so I can't start or finish my resume.
Creating a resume is frustrating work, and it is easy to procrastinate. At this early stage, though, you have already begun the journey toward updating or creating a powerful resume. You will soon have travel papers in hand for the voyage that will end with meaningful employment.
Easy Steps to Get You Started
Even people who think of the job search as difficult and fraught with anxiety must agree that it ends with success! You will attain your goals! It all begins with a few easy steps. Chapter 2 describes the seven steps to a successful resume, which are illustrated throughout this book (especially in the sample resumes). Here's how you get your start:
Review some samples, including your old resumes and the examples in this book. Pay particular attention to those related to your goals.
Pick the approach that you want to model. Imitation is more than flattery. It is the best strategy in writing your resume.
Determine the format, content, and order of your resume. Will you use headlines? What entries will be presented within these categories? In what order will these sections appear?
Most experts agree that a job search takes at least three months. Be surprised if it takes only a few weeks, and remain determined and upbeat if it takes longer than the estimated three months. Everything starts with the proper attitude. Eventually, all true job searches end with success.
Next, if you have not already done so, identify your objectives and target audiences. What is your job-search target? This is not necessarily the same as your career goal. Can you clearly and concisely articulate your goals? If not, don't fret. Chapter 4 will take you through this step with minimal pain.
Once you've defined your goals, you can really create a resume in just one day. Put your goals on paper, then list your relevant qualifications and achievements. Examine your general qualifications, and present your specific competencies and capabilities in terms of their importance. Once you have a draft together, read it over with an eye to the person (you) it represents. Your aim is to present yourself as qualified, knowledgeable, and self-confident. By following these steps, you can create a resume in just one day. Why not make it today?
