No matter what your present employment situation is, now is the best time to update your resume. Unexpected job loss can happen to anyone without a moment's notice, and unexpected opportunities can materialize. Be prepared for whatever life throws at you by keeping your resume up-to-date. Showcase your latest skills and accomplishments, especially new knowledge, experience and skills that are relevant to the current marketplace.
Updating your resume at least once a year ensures that your annual achievements are included before you forget them. Recording your most current information as it happens is an even better way to keep your resume fresh and relevant. Having your resume in its best possible shape at all times will put you in the optimal position to successfully deal with the ups and downs of the job market.
Losing a job can be emotionally devastating, and it is usually not the easiest time to focus on past experiences and write the most compelling and convincing resume. However, if you find yourself suddenly unemployed and you're not financially prepared to be out of work, it will be critical that you starting applying for new jobs as soon as possible. If you update your resume during the calm periods between the storms, you will have one less thing to deal with during the hard times, and it will always be ready to go if you need it.
Alternatively, a great new job opportunity may suddenly appear out of nowhere, and you may need to impress a potential employer with a top-notch resume you simply don't have. Updating your resume frequently will allow you to take advantage of a window of opportunity before it closes, resulting in a resume that comes equipped the most current information and your latest skills.
If you're in the market for a new job, update your resume to target each job you apply for. Do this by learning about the potential employer and focusing your resume on its needs, mission and values using industry-specific key words. Thoroughly review each item in the job description. Organize and display your skills and experience to clearly and cleanly show how you will meet the needs of the position. Finally, brand yourself with a relevant role title at the top of your resume. The more frequently you update your resume to target individual jobs, the less time you will need to spend on targeting future jobs because you will be keeping it in-line with the latest industry trends.
Updating your resume frequently is a key strategy in landing the jobs you desire most. Be ready to roll with the punches or ride the waves of success with a resume that is ready to send out as-is or with minimal time spent on targeting it to suit each new job opportunity.
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