Put your Resume in its Place

by Lisa Taylor

A dozen times a week, I will be speaking or emailing with someone who is considering changing careers, but isn't sure what they would like to do next. Typically, they start the exchange by making sure I have a copy of their resume.

Resumes are important. But I think we lose sight of why resumes exist and how to use them. They don't contain insight as to why you liked or disliked a particular job and strong performance in a role doesn't mean you should look for a similar role in the future.

Your resume won't indicate what career move you should make next and it won't tell me, or any career advisor, what you would be good at. Career success is not necessarily linear or logical and your options are broader than a summary of previous accomplishments.

A resumes takes your past experiences and translates them for an employer so they will consider you for the role you want next. It is a marketing document that aims to convince an employer you are the right candidate for a job that you want. If you don't know what you want, you are not ready to send anyone your resume.

Put your resume in its place. Approach career transition by thinking about what you need, want, love, and hate. Figure out what next career is really right for you at this point in time. Find ways to spend time experiencing potential roles to get a gut-feel for what options are best for your future. Get help from family, friends, and professionals to determine what the best, next step is.

Only then are you ready to build a resume that reflects who you are. One that is certain to land you a job that you want.

Image courtesy of Microsoft Office.