Your resume is one of the most important tools in your job search. While interviewing skills, industry-related knowledge,and practical skills are important as well, you'll never getto show these off if your resume isn't up to par. If your resume has been languishing for years withoutproper care, the results for your career could be disastrous. Consider these valuable benefits that a well-writtenresume will offer.A resume is an advertisement. It advertises you, your unique skills and qualifications, and it stresses the benefits you have to offer.
One way to rise above the competition is to make sure that your resume is loaded with employer benefits, not just skills. An employer is more interested in the benefits you have to offer, than your impressive repertoire of skills. When you write your resume, make every effort to highlight these employer benefits. For example, if you are proficient in PageMaker and desktop publishing, do not just list your skills such as Mastery of PageMaker. Translate those skills into benefits. Tell the employer what you are able to do with your desktop publishing skills for example, ability to produce attractive brochures at a low cost. Skills indicate your potential, while benefits demonstrate your actual accomplishments—what you have achieved with your skills. The purpose of the resume is to get you an interview. In today's market where many companies utilize resume-tracking programs, where a computer selects your resume based on keywords, you must be extra careful to load your resume up with benefits. You not only have to impress the employer, today you must impress his computer as well!
The purpose of any resume, electronic or otherwise, is simply to get you an interview. Resume prepares you for the interview. Most employers will use your resume as a guideline when they interview you. They will ask you to explain in detail many of the statements you have made in your resume. It also organizes you. Preparing a resume forces you to assess your skills. This in turn will help you evaluate the many employment options open to you. It will also help you plan an effective job search campaign.
A professional resume provides you a sense of security. It's a good idea to always have an updates resume on hand. You never know when you will want to seek a better job or just a change. Also, in case you unexpectedly lose your job, it is wise to have your resume updated and ready.