How to Beef Up your resume and be more competitive in today's job market.
Many job seekers have more experience than they give themselves credit for
Lack of experience, or specific experience, holds many people back from applying for jobs they don’t think they are qualified for. Many job seekers have more experience than they give themselves credit for and miss out on opportunities that could land them a new, or better job.
High school and college students often sell their experience short. Not including many items on their resume that could give an advantage over other applicants. Some of those include club membership and organizational affiliations; not to mention, extracurricular activities.
The Spanish Club, Drama Club, 4-H and Science Club, are but a few clubs offered in high school. Membership in such clubs shows someone who is committed to something above the minimum requirements; and a person who has held a position, such as Club President, or Treasurer, indicates a person with leadership qualities. Both are a bonus on your resume.
Associations with community service organizations, such as, The Knights of Columbus, Junior Service League, The American Red Cross or the local Boys and Girls Club, tell prospective employers that this candidate does not have a, “What’s in it for me?” attitude. This is someone who is a team player who sees the importance of unity, team work, and community.
Adding accomplishments of the club, or organization, during your association, especially during your tenure as an officer, will really shine a positive light on you as an individual, and a leader.
You have a lot to offer.
State your objectives clearly in your resume or cover letter, even if that includes admitting your experience is limited in the field. Accentuating an earnest interest and a desire to learn a new job will let a manager know you are willing and teachable. Many employers give more credence to someone who is eager and teachable, rather than someone who has the attitude that says they’ve been there, done that, and gotten the t-shirt. Usually these applicants are unwilling to learn a new or better way. Managers look for someone who will do what they ask, and will do a good job.
Many applicants fail to list life experience and volunteer work on a resume. Although it may not seem like the kind of thing that should go on a resume, it can be very beneficial for those just entering the job market. If there has been a lapse in your employment history, volunteer work can make a big difference.
Volunteering includes, but is not limited to, working at a local food-bank, a local library, The American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, The Boys and Girls Club, the local animal shelter, or even the nursery at your house of worship. Volunteering as a Scout Master, Den Mother or with the local PTA is not only something to be proud of, but something to add to your resume.
Remember, don’t sell yourself short. If you stop and think about it, you have a lot to offer and more experience than you give yourself credit.
