We all need a resume. No, LinkedIn doesn’t count.

One in four Americans is now looking for work. You do not want to be left behind because you didn’t have a resume ready. Seven years ago, I learned this hard lesson while working as a small business owner and consultant.

You see, I always acquired new work through my connections. If a friend needed something done, we’d have a call. If the opportunity sounded good, a price would be negotiated. I would have more work for the coming weeks or months.

It was a great model for procuring work until I was referred to someone who asked me to send her a resume, which I didn’t have. In fact, I was arrogant and said, “I don’t have a resume.”.

I didn’t get the gig.

As you look for work as full-time employees or freelancers, don’t forget to make a solid resume that you would be proud to send. When you use your network to find jobs, offer them your resume to share. Post your resume on your social media pages.

And as you update your resume, I have a couple of tips for you.

 

Choose a Template that is Relevant to your Industry

Whatever your industry is, you want your resume to reflect your qualifications for the job. Do you work in a creative profession? Maybe you’re a graphic designer? Then your resume should have pops of color, a great layout, and personalization that reflects your personality. If you work with numbers, then include many examples of numerical accomplishments. E.g. “As an accountant, I saved my clients over $4,000 on average for their 2018 taxes.”

Make It Personal

Your resume is just like hundreds of others if you do not set yourself apart. What makes you you? Let your passions shine through by showcasing them in a small section. Volunteering, hobbies, community activism, and unique skills are all great ways to differentiate yourself.

Keep It Brief

When listing your past experiences, keep it short but relevant. Strive for uniformity in the way you list your previous employers, but know this: You can edit your work history on a chronological resume without being accused of lying. Include relevant details from your previous positions that relate to the role you’re applying for, and de-emphasize or edit out the ones that aren’t applicable. If you are further in your career, leave out your college work experience at the local sandwich shop. If you took a temporary job with Uber or Shipt after being furloughed, you can leave that off.

Include Keywords From the Job Post

Job postings are windows into the organization. You don’t need to modify your resume for each position, but make sure to include the keywords in your experience section. Doing so will trigger a stronger match within applicant tracking systems, and it will increase your chances of getting that first interview.

 

As you hunt for your next job, tighten up that resume, be prepared to share it, and use these tips to make it stronger. Good luck!