How to Write Mid-Life Career Change Resume

How to Write a Perfect Resume



By Cathy Goodwin

Career changers often feel challenged when asked to write a resume targeting a new industry. Here are some tips to help you make the transition. Of course, successful career changers do not rely on resumes to do the whole job. They realize that networking and "back door" opportunities tend to be more successful.

(1) Use buzzwords and jargon that show you are familiar with your target industry. Refer to skills that are valued in that industry.

When you change careers, you find recruiters and employers will ask, "Do you have the in-depth knowledge of our industry? Does your experience transfer effectively?" Your resume needs to show, not tell, that the answers are "yes" and "yes."

(2) Demonstrate increased progress in your current career.

The most convincing part of your resume will demonstrate that others demonstrated respect for you in tangible ways. Were you given a promotion? More responsibility? A statement like, "Grew department from 5 to 15 employees" shows that your company was willing to give you resources. Recruiters like to see growth trends, which is just one reason functional resumes often backfire.

(3) Show awareness of the employer's needs.

These days objectives tend to be replaced by summaries, which really are summaries of what you can offer your new employer. A summary that begins, "Seeking a job where I can have more challenges, enjoy personal growth and..." Well, a lot of hiring managers will stop reading there.

(4) Make your resume easy to read.

Set up the resume with lots of white space. Write clearly and use headings to show employment places and dates. If employers have to spend time finding the information they need, they just might see an excuse to toss your resume in the reject pile.

(5) Presents details of how you contributed to your company's success.

Avoid presenting a job description. In each section, refer to accomplishments and achievements. Once you are over sixteen you no longer have "duties" and "tasks." You have responsibilities (which are less important than the outcomes).

(6) Include links to selected online locations.

You are often advised to link to a web portfolio that looks professional. You would include examples of your work that you are legally allowed to share. Some advisors suggest adding your own mission statements and core values. Others say just focus on your career accomplishments and skills.

Here's a place to use your network. You might also google people who just completed a successful job search in your industry. Often you will find links to their online portfolios. Use them as role models only; copying can backfire.

(7) Tell the truth.

These days employers routinely check backgrounds. Expect every word to be analyzed (especially if the HR department gets bored). One manager wrote that she had minored in a subject in college. She had enough credits for a minor but the word "minor" was not noted on her transcript. She was actually asked to explain the "discrepancy."

For more in-depth information and guidance on career change, download the 12-session e-course, "Mid-Life Career Strategy," at http://www.MidlifeCareerChoice.com.

Get 12 lessons delivered to your email inbox, with solid tips to go from career success to career change. The course was written by author and career consultant Cathy Goodwin, Ph.D. Check out her popular Report, Your 21-Day Extreme Career Makeover.

http://www.MidlifeCareerStrategy.com/21days.html

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