PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
• Stay positive. Recruiters don’t want complaints or negativity. Think about the favourite aspects of your prior jobs. Under no circumstances you should state why you left a previous role • Contemplate your core skills. Write down what you feel your core skills are and skills that you wish to highlight on your resume. Spend some time reviewing your entire work history, and determine whether there’s a way to thoughtfully word your history to match your target • Consider your accomplishments. Recruiters don’t want to see a list of your responsibilities. They want to know how you made a positive difference. Describing your accomplishments will show how you will perform and make an impact in the future, which will sell you above other candidates.
Testimonials can be added to your resume in a number of ways. Adding a simple text box works, but make sure the addition fits with the overall format and it is pleasing to the eye. Alternatively, a separate Testimonials section could be added near the end of your resume, or a quote could be added to the Accomplishments section of your resume. Overall, keep testimonials short. One or two sentences is usually enough. The most likely sources for testimonials are performance reviews given by your manager or supervisor. If your company is fairly casual about offering performance reviews, request one. Ask that something be provided to you in writing — you never know when you may need documented accolades that overview your work ethic and strongest skill sets. You can also request letters of reference from former employers, clients, colleagues or vendors. Another growing source for testimonials is LinkedIn, which allows your connections to directly endorse your skills and experience online. When it comes time to select your best endorsements, only use material that is current (nothing from 30 years ago) and, more importantly, relevant. If you are looking for work with project management as a key skill, find a testimonial that mentions how well you completed a past project. If you aren’t confident in your current resume, ask for help. Utilize your network and call in professional help when you need it. Preparing a tailored resume with an appropriate format and effective content can make the difference between job search success and failure. Don’t lose an opportunity because your resume isn’t ready. Jennifer Miller is a Calgary-based Certified Professional Resume Writer, Certified Resume Strategist and Certified Advanced Resume Writer. She operates Professional Edge Resumes (professionaledgeresumes.com) and has received multiple awards through the Career Professionals of Canada. Professional Edge is an APEGA group benefit provider.
TRY TESTIMONIALS
We’ve reviewed a lot of new trends in resumes: fresh formats, clean writing and impactful branding statements. But have you thought about including testimonials in your resume or cover letter? Adding a testimonial can be a great way to support the messages you are try- ing to portray to employers, giving you an edge over other applicants.
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44 | PEG SPRING 2015
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