🌈 Rejuvenate Your Resume with Impact

Did you know that I help people rejuvenate their resumes? You may be wondering... "rejuvenate...what the heck Emily?" A lot of times our resume is very task oriented, like I did this thing and what's usually missing is the IMPACT and the RESULT of the things that you did and what you accomplished. When I work with individuals on their resumes, I ask a lot of questions to dig into the results and the impact and help them showcase their value their resume. It's a fun exercise and the feedback I've received is that it supports them in recognizing the value that they bring and prepares them for interviews.

Why is this work important?

Your resume is often the first impression you make on potential employers, so it’s crucial that it not only stands out but also effectively communicates your value. I wanted to share with you some key elements for you to keep in mind when crafting or updating your resume to ensure it captures attention and showcases your best self.

Add a Hint of Color 🌈

A subtle touch of color can make your resume visually appealing and memorable. Consider adding a primary color to elements like your name, section headlines, or break lines. This small design choice can help your resume stand out in a stack of monochromatic documents, adding a touch of personality while maintaining professionalism.

Craft a Compelling Professional Summary 🌻

Your professional summary is your personal brand statement. It should succinctly communicate who you are, the unique value you bring, and why the company needs you. This section is your elevator pitch—make it engaging and focused on what sets you apart from other candidates.

Incorporate Keywords from Job Postings 🔐

Tailoring your resume to each job you apply for is essential. Identify key phrases and skills mentioned in the job postings you’re interested in and incorporate those keywords throughout your resume. This not only shows that you’re a strong match for the role but also helps your resume get past applicant tracking systems (ATS) that scan for specific terms.

Include Your LinkedIn URL 🔗

Adding your LinkedIn URL to your resume is a must in today’s digital age. Place it in the header section of your resume, near your contact information. Before you do, make sure your LinkedIn URL is customized to be as close to your first and last name as possible. This simple addition makes it easy for potential employers to view your full professional profile and connect with you. PSA: If you're going to include your LinkedIn profile, make sure it's up-to-date 😉

Highlight Your Accomplishments 🌟

Focus on the impact you’ve made in your previous roles by highlighting your accomplishments. Quantify your results wherever possible, using numbers and metrics to show how you’ve contributed to success. For example, instead of saying you “improved sales,” say you “increased sales by 20% over six months.” Emphasize the problems or challenges you’ve helped solve and the tangible results of your efforts.

Be Mindful of Tense 😉

Pay attention to the tenses you use throughout your resume. Use present tense for your current role if you’re still employed there, and past tense for all previous positions. Consistency in tense usage helps maintain clarity and professionalism and if it's wrong, it can be a deal breaker for a lot of recruiters. 

By paying attention to these key elements, you can create a resume that not only looks great but also effectively communicates your strengths and value. Remember, your resume is your personal marketing tool—use it to tell your story, highlight your achievements, and show employers why you’re a really great fit for their team and the role.

Take the time to refine your resume, and don’t be afraid to infuse a bit of your personality into it. After all, your resume should be as unique as you are. Whether you're gearing up for a job hunt, keeping your options open, or are feeling secure in your current position, it's ALWAYS good to keep your resume updated and refreshed so you're ready for anything.