6 Signs it’s Time To Update Your Resume

It might have been a while since you even laid eyes on your resume, or perhaps it’s not getting the results you have been hoping for. If you fall into one or more of these categories below, it’s time to mix in a revamp.

1-You have to search your inbox for a copy of your resume and aren’t 100% sure if that’s even the most recent version you have on file.

See this post as to why I always suggest having your resume ready to go.  Great tip – email a copy of your resume to yourself, with the subject line Resume- First & Last Name – and somehow star it to your liking.  Favorite it or make a separate Resume folder.  This way, your resume is always easy to send along when you’re on the go.    Are you that candidate that promises to send a new lead your resume “when you’re home on your computer” and then inevitably forget or follow up far too late and look unorganized?  Let’s fix that.

2-An outdated resume led you to miss out on an opportunity

As a perfectionist, I always hesitate to send out anything, especially my resume, if it’s not perfect.  But this can be detrimental to timing.   As a former agency recruiter, I can attest to the importance of speed to market.  General rule - 24 hours is my “professional courtesy” response time.  If a recruiter, old colleague, or new contact ask for a copy of your resume, and you don’t have it ready – it’s so easy to let that request, and ultimately the opportunity, slip through the cracks.

3-Recruiters are sending you roles way outside your experience

Yes, you could just have some spam approaches you’re falling victim to, but good recruiters typically know what to look for.  If you have been contacted by more than one contact for a specific type of job, that you don’t feel is a good match for your skills or experience… this could be a sign there’s a disconnect in your experience and how it’s portrayed on your resume or LinkedIn profile. 

4- You’ve started a new role!

Sorry to break it to you, but that resume won’t update itself.  If you have started a new role, whether recently or years ago, and your new role isn’t updated on your resume and/or LinkedIn profile – now is the time.   I am a huge fan of keeping track of your accomplishments as they happen. 

 Even seemingly minor feats, like hitting your target quota X number of months ahead of schedule, a specific internal accolade or award like Staff of the Month, or similar industry specific accolade- those are great to keep track of and eventually add to your resume.

5-There’s changes happening with your current company

This one is not meant to cause panic- but let’s be realists in this market and read the writing on the walls.  High turnover, upper management changes, whispers of a merger or acquisition, or general budget cut backs-could all be signs that your position might be in jeopardy.  It never hurts to be prepared.

6- You don’t have one.  

This one seems self-explanatory.  There are very few  professions out there that don’t require a professional resume in order to get you to the finish line.  If you don’t have a resume- I can help. 

If you fall into one of these categories - fear not - I have packages for all budgets & levels. You can check out my offerings here, and contact me here.