You expect a lot from your resume. This small, relatively simple document carries a lot of weight.
If you’re lucky, your resume will make an employer curious about your potential. If you’re lucky, the employer won’t be able to resist the urge to meet you. He or she will want to “experience” first-hand the professional represented on this simple, magical document.
However, today you don’t have to rely on luck! Resumes are no longer considered one hit wonders. When it comes to resumes, one size rarely fits all.
With all of the available information, technology, and trainers/assistance that can help get you to your “Target Resume,” it is amazing how many job seekers still feel that they can get by with just one resume! If you have the “one size fits all” mentality, consider the many reasons why this may not be realistic today…
Let’s say you’re looking for the same type of work that has always complimented your skills, including job title, within the same industry, and you’re applying to two companies.
Consider the fact that the companies are two different companies with two different job descriptions. You may be surprised when you compare the two job descriptions point-by-point. If the two descriptions are completely different, which one should you highlight on your one and only resume? You’ll discover that the need arises for at least two uniquely different/targeted resumes that actually speak to the same job title within the same industry with virtually the same responsibilities! Does that make sense?
Read all job descriptions thoroughly. Include as many key words as possible without purposefully falsifying the document. The employer’s keywords can easily be added by changing the summary in the upper portion of your resume to match the essential functions of the job or maybe adjusting the keyword list if you’re using one.
Hold on to your original resume, and repurpose it by making changes, deletions, additions and other adjustments to a copy of your original. Remember, your employment history doesn’t change. So there may be little to no adjustments needed in this area if documented well the first time. Create as many targeted resumes as you need to get your skills across with each new application! You will breathe easier knowing you still have the power of your original thoughts to fall back on.
Though creating a new resume for every position may seem overwhelming, your new job, with its financial outcomes, will be all the proof you need to see that the simple technique of using a more targeted resume can and will work!
Frieda Carmouche is a member of the Regional Navigator team specializing in training, educating and assisting employers, and career center staff throughout the Gulf Coast with community resources, outreach events and technical support in assisting job seekers with disabilities. A native Houstonian with a love of training and development, Frieda has been employed by Workforce Solutions for over 16 years.
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