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Beefing
up an Anemic Resume
To get the most
mileage out of your resume, you'll want to emphasize certain aspects
of your background. By doing so, you'll present your qualifications
in the most favorable light, and help give the employer a better
understanding of your potential value to his or her organization.
To build a stronger case for your candidacy, try highlighting the
following areas of interest:
Professional
achievements of particular interest. For example, if you're in sales,
the first thing a hiring manager will want to know is your sales
volume, and how you rank with your peers. If you've won awards,
reached goals or made your company money, let the employer know.
Educational
accomplishments. List your degree(s) and/or relevant course work,
thesis or dissertation, or specialized training. Be sure to mention
any special honors, scholarships, or awards you may have received,
such as Dean's List, Cum Laude, or Phi Beta Kappa.
Additional areas
of competency. These might include computer software fluency, dollar
amount of monthly raw materials purchased, or specialized training.
Professional
designations that carry weight in your field. If you're licensed
or certified in your chosen profession (PE, for example), or belong
to a trade organization (such as ASTD or ASQC), by all means let
the reader know.
Success indicators.
You should definitely include anything in your past that might distinguish
you as a leader or achiever. Or, if you worked full time to put
yourself through school, you should consider that experience a success
indicator, and mention it on your resume.
Related experience.
Anything that would be relevant to your prospective employer's needs.
For example, if your occupation requires overseas travel or communication,
list your knowledge of foreign languages. If you worked as a co-op
student in college, especially in the industry you're currently
in, let the reader know.
Military history.
If you served in the armed forces, describe your length of service,
branch of service, rank, special training, medals, and discharge
and/or reserve status. Employers generally react favorably to military
service experience.
Security clearances.
Some industries require a clearance when it comes to getting hired
or being promoted. If you're targeting an industry such as aerospace
or defense, give your current and/or highest clearable status, and
whether you've been specially checked by an investigative agency.
Citizenship
or right to work. This should be mentioned if your industry requires
it. Dual citizenship should also be mentioned, especially if you
think you may be working in a foreign country.
In a competitive
market, employers are always on the lookout for traits that distinguish
one candidate from another. Not long ago, I worked with an engineering
manager who mentioned the fact that he was a three-time national
power speed boat champion on his resume. It came as no surprise
that several employers warmed up to his resume immediately, and
wanted to interview him.
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