When it comes to launching a job search, the foundation to doing so is creating an effective and hard-hitting resume. Now, before you begin your full-court press, is a good time to clean up your existing resume or start a new one that accurately reflects not only what you have accomplished up to this point in your career, but more importantly, what you want to do in the future. Read on for five important fundamentals to creating a winning resume.

We know from our own research (link) that nearly 40 percent of today’s workers are likely to look for a new job in the next year. Frequent job changes are a reality of today’s labor market, regardless of whether it’s at your initiative or at the hands of your employer. Having your resume in tip-top shape is vital to landing your next career move. Here are five fundamentals to consider when developing your resume.

1. Audit your current resume.
   Look over your existing resume and identify accomplishments that would be beneficial to any employer in any field. With the talent shortage, many employers are looking for the cross-functional skills that are important regardless of the technical position. These can include management experience, good presentation or communication skills, or ability to interact with C-level executives.
2. Pick the right format to showcase your skills.
   Determine whether your experience and skills are best suited to a functional or chronological resume format. Chronological resumes are more effective for workers who have a wealth of experience typically within one field or industry because it lists qualifications in reverse chronological order. Potential employers can easily and quickly see your credentials for the job. If, on the other hand, you are changing careers, re-entering the workforce or have a high number of job changes, you should consider using a functional resume. This type of resume allows you to highlight your skills rather than focusing on dates of employment or job titles. For tips on how to write chronological or functional resumes, visit our Career Center at LINK.
3. A great summary is the key to opening doors.
   You should view your resume like a sales tool to help “sell” you to your potential employer. An effective, well-written summary at the very top of your resume tells the reader immediately what you have to offer, and what type of company and position you are seeking. If you are changing careers, make sure your summary focuses on those skills and experience that are relevant to the position you are seeking, not those you previously held. Keep the summary short but to the point. See the Ask Seymour section of this newsletter for more insight on the pros and cons of the traditional “objective” in resumes.
4. Tailor your resume to fit the job.
   Your resume should not be “one size fits all.” Examine each job opportunity to determine who the audience is and customize your resume appropriately. For example, if you’re applying for a sales position, make sure your expertise and skills in the sales arena are highlighted up front. Tailor your summary to include sales-specific buzz words or lingo. If you are unsure about industry lingo or buzz words, look up sample resumes or job advertisements for hints.
5. Include the “proof behind the pudding.”
   Employers not only look at your previous experience and skills, they also want to see how you helped impact the bottom line. Weave actual results from your job responsibilities throughout your resume, such as dollar amounts saved or generated for the company, percentage increases, or amount of time decreased by more efficient processes implemented.

Take this opportunity to develop a powerful resume that will be the cornerstone to your job search process. Following these resume fundamentals will make you shine in the eyes of potential employers!