If you don’t have a current resume, you can download my free basic resume builder template by clicking here and following the tips below to complete your resume.

OR you can design a more creative resume at www.canva.com for free.  Start by typing in “resume” into the search field once you create your account.

Your current or previous job descriptions can serve as a baseline to build your resume, but be sure to include specific contributions you’ve made in the role rather than listing job duties.

If you have a current resume that has been updated within the last 6 months, make sure you have the following 7 elements in your resume:

1) Add TQQCR

Include numbers and data with specific examples and contributions that improved time (efficiencies), quality (process improvements or accuracy), quantity (volume), cost (savings or reduced expenses) or revenue (business development or profits) in any of your roles.

For example, if you’ve managed a team of 5 people and led the team through a challenging transition, include that information on your resume.

If you created a process that saved the company $50,000 in costs, that should be on your resume.

If you negotiated a deal that brought in over $20,000 in revenue, include it on your resume.

2) Start bullets with a power verb (developed, led, managed, created, etc.)

Click here to see a list of over 100 powerful action verbs to use for each bullet on your resume.

Power verbs help you stand out and can even make a difference in how your experience is reflected on your resume.

For example, using the word “organized” rather than “assisted” OR using “managed” versus “coordinated” can make a huge difference in how your skills and experience comes across to the recruiter.

3) Use Keywords that match the jobs that you’d be seeking

Many artificial intelligence tools scan resumes for key words that match the job profile before the recruiter even sees it.

Include a “professional skills summary” at the top of your resume that includes key words found in the job that you’re applying for or skills that would be needed for future opportunities that you may want to apply for.  These skills should be concise bullets of areas that you’ve developed over the years (for example, an HR professional could list employee relations, training & development, comp & benefits, recruiting, onboarding, and more).

4) Remove “objective statement” or “additional references available upon request”

Objective statements are usually seen on more entry-level resumes. Replace the statement with a professional skills summary as listed in #3. Trust me on this one.

References are usually provided during the application process, so this is sacred space that you can remove and use for something else.

5) Include more than 1 page for your resume if needed

Avoid trying to cram your resume all on one page. Use multiple pages if you have a lot of experience and if it allows you to create a better representation of your skills, contributions and responsibilities.

6) Always tailor your resume for the positions you’re seeking.

Sending the same resume for different jobs can be similar to using the same book cover for different books.

Tailor your resume to fit jobs you may want to apply to in the future.

7) Grammar is still king.

Use sites like “grammarly” to complete spell checks. Recruiters who are looking at resumes may use grammar to decide who to pass on to the hiring manager. Make sure your resume has been reviewed for any grammatical errors.  This still matters in a very tight job market.

Join the private Facebook community for the challenge here.