Creating a Better Resume

**monkeywrangler71** · 02-28-2011, 10:21 PM

I've been applying for a few jobs here and there, and it appears that no one wants me. Weird, since I'm pretty sure I'm awesome

.

I don't think my resume highlights my strengths, just points a big bold finger at my biggest weakness - the fact that I have not worked in 6 years. When I read it, I feel like falling asleep so I doubt that anyone else has read beyond the date beside my last job.

I'm experimenting with a "combination" format, where the top half is skills and accomplishments, and the bottom just lists education and positions held. I've been reading online and it says to include concrete evidence, so I've been trying to back up my skills with short blurbs about how I've proved them. My goal was to basically build a master list of statements about various skills/traits, and then tailor the resume to each position by just including the relevant ones. I'm having trouble finding a balance between a resume that looks empty and one that looks like a wall of text. And, I am really not used to this kind of self-promotion; I don't know if I sound confident, capable, or just pretentious.

I also read that some employers do their first round of cuts with keyword software, which scans resumes for certain words and eliminates those that don't include them. So you have to guess what specific words they are looking for.

Who has written an awesome resume that really highlighted your abilities? What has worked & what hasn't? Does anyone work in HR, what impresses you or turns you off (other than the obvious spelling/grammar errors)?

Most importantly, how can I shift the emphasis away from my lack of recent experience? (and no, I haven't been volunteering or operating any small businesses at home)

**MsMarieH** · 03-02-2011, 09:41 PM

Doing a functional resume may help you in your situation.

My first question though is this... Are you getting calls for interviews or are you getting interviewed and not receiving offers?

What is the general type of job you are applying for?

If you'd like I could take a look at it. Let me know and I will pm you my email address. You can delete the confidential data for your protection if you wish. (grins... I know I'm safe, but of course you don't.)

**HoustonDave** · 03-02-2011, 10:44 PM

I did a lot of hiring and resume reviewing in my previous job. From my viewpoint, your approach here is dead-on accurate.

You absolutely want to focus on your skills first and de-emphasize your recent work history by putting it second. I can't imagine that you were not doing anything the last 6 years that you couldn't turn into some sort of asset though.

And yes, having concrete examples of how you have used skills is a very good approach.

**moasmom** · 03-03-2011, 01:08 PM

I also vote for a functional (Google for examples) rather than chronological resume. Oh, and also take MsMarieH up on her generous offer to review it.

The more eyes the better.

Good luck with your search!

Kara

**monkeywrangler71** · 03-03-2011, 01:32 PM

Originally Posted by MsMarieH

Doing a functional resume may help you in your situation.

My first question though is this... Are you getting calls for interviews or are you getting interviewed and not receiving offers?

What is the general type of job you are applying for?

If you'd like I could take a look at it. Let me know and I will pm you my email address. You can delete the confidential data for your protection if you wish. (grins... I know I'm safe, but of course you don't.)

The internet says that hiring managers don't like a straight functional resume, too confusing to sort out actual experience and sets off red flags that they are trying to hide something horrible. Which is why I'm trying the combo, basically a functional resume with a list at the bottom of titles and dates.

I'm screening out at the application stage, not getting interviews (except one, but that was a temp agency and they interview everyone). So, definitely not wowing anyone with my resume.

I wouldn't mind some feedback if you want to pm me with your email. But be gentle with me

**MsMarieH** · 03-03-2011, 05:13 PM

LOL. I'll try, but I can't guarantee anything.

I always tell people don't ask my opinion, if you don't want the unvarnished truth, since I don't think it does anyone any favors to not tell them when things are hurting them. But if pushed, I *suppose* I can be tactful.

**HoustonDave** · 03-05-2011, 07:21 PM

I would also be happy to review your resume and offer some suggestions. Send me a PM if you are interested.

**TheresaRHPS** · 03-06-2011, 12:19 AM

Even though I have a less than perfect resume, I landed a great job that I love.

My problems were that I had big holes in my work experience, along with lots of little part-time jobs that I didn't stay with very long. Both those don't exactly scream potential candidate, but I made it work.

I didn't do a chronological resume per se, nor did I do a straight functional one, either. I found a nice template online, and REALLY tailored my work experience, volunteer experience, and hobbies to fit the description for the job I was applying for. I used subsections for Objective, Experience, Education, Interests and Volunteer Work, and Additional Skills and Certifications.

Instead of using a title of work history, or something like that, I simply entitled that section "Experience" and highlighted only the jobs that were the most relevant to the position, and the skills most relevant. I didn't lie or provide any misleading information...just really tailored what I had to work with. Since its recommended that resumes only be 1-2 pages in length, I just listed my jobs that I felt most appropriate, and then was prepared to answer any questions about missing time.

I was told that being a tour guide for a haunted history tour is ultimately what landed me the interview...not only were the interviewers personally intrigued, but I give presentations to the public at work and need good public speaking/theatrical skills.

**HoustonDave** · 03-06-2011, 10:39 PM

Originally Posted by TheresaRHPS

Instead of using a title of work history, or something like that, I simply entitled that section "Experience" and highlighted only the jobs that were the most relevant to the position, and the skills most relevant.

That was a very good point. You could title it "Relevant Work Experience" or "Applicable Work Experience". Then, instead of listing by date, you could list the position and the number of years you worked there.

Of course, if they ask you would have to say what dates, but this would make any gaps in employment much less of a focus on the resume.