skills

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July 20, 2024

What Exactly Should Go on Your Resume?

Creating a resume can sometimes feel like an art form, balancing between showcasing your best qualities and remaining succinct. With so much advice out there, it can be tough to decipher what exactly employers are looking for. The key is not just in listing your experiences and skills, but in presenting them in a way that aligns with your career goals and the job you’re applying for. Whether you’re entering the workforce, shifting careers, or aiming for a promotion, your resume is a crucial tool.

Crafting a Powerful Professional Summary

In the realm of resumes, your professional summary acts as a pivotal introduction, concisely encapsulating your career’s essence and the unique benefits you bring to the table. Tailor this section to mirror the qualities and experiences most relevant to the job you’re targeting, distilling your professional journey into a compelling narrative.

For instance, a bookkeeper might describe themselves as, “Dynamic bookkeeper with over eight years of experience in managing accounting solutions to both small businesses and large corporations. Specializes in Quickbooks software, with a proven track record of enhancing accounting efficiency by 30% through effective data input strategies. Recognized for expertise in profit and loss management and cross-functional team collaboration to keep entries up to date.” This personalized approach not only outlines your skills and achievements but also positions you as an ideal candidate by directly aligning your background with the prospective employer’s needs.

Remember, this should only be a few sentences. The shorter the better, but it does need to communicate who you are and what you bring to the table for a position. This goes at the top of your resume underneath your contact information; a professional summary is optional, but it can be a great way to add more information about yourself — and it gives you another opportunity to use keywords from the job listing in your application materials.

Detailing Your Work Experience with Precision

Begin by listing your positions in reverse chronological order, focusing on roles most relevant to the job you’re eyeing. Each entry should include your job title and employer. The meat of this section lies in bullet-pointed descriptions of your duties and accomplishments, where specificity and measurable results reign supreme. For instance, instead of stating “oversaw project completion,” detail it as, “Supervised a remote team to deliver 3 major projects on time, under budget, resulting in a 15% increase in client satisfaction.” Such precision not only conveys your responsibilities but also underscores your impact, illustrating how you’ve excelled in past roles. Aim to demonstrate how your contributions have positively affected your team or company, using concrete figures and outcomes whenever possible to paint a vivid picture of your professional skills.

Highlighting Your Education and Certifications

List your highest degree first, including the type of degree, your major, the institution from which you graduated, and the year of graduation. If applicable, add your GPA, especially if it’s notably high or if you’re a recent graduate. For those still pursuing a degree, mention your anticipated completion date. When it comes to certifications, provide the name of the certification and the organization that issued it. For instance, a marketing professional might note, “Bachelor of Arts in Marketing, Magna Cum Laude, University of XYZ, 2019” followed by “Google Analytics Certified, Google, 2020.” This format efficiently conveys your educational background and any additional qualifications that enhance your expertise in your field.

You also do not need to list all of your education experience or all of your certifications if they do not match the position for which you are applying. You can just list your highest college degree and top certifications.

Showcasing Relevant Skills and Technologies

Break down your expertise into distinct categories for clarity — highlight your skills and proficiencies, such as project management programs, productivity tools, or certified services you offer such as a CPA. For example, a graphic designer might list, “Advanced in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.” Additionally, pinpoint your soft skills, which are just as crucial for most roles. Phrases like, “Adept at conflict resolution” or “Highly effective in remote team environments” showcase interpersonal strengths that complement your technical abilities. Customize this portion based on the specific requirements outlined in the job listing, ensuring you mirror the language used by the employer to describe their ideal candidate’s skills.

Including Additional Information That Makes You Stand Out

This segment offers the perfect opportunity to pepper your resume with unique details that showcase your versatility and distinctiveness as a candidate. For example, if you are seeking a sales position, you should list stats you have achieved in past sales positions such as, “Provided over 100 remote demonstrations that led to a 80% conversion rate in sales.” Or, highlighting accolades such as “Recipient of the 2020 Innovator Award for groundbreaking marketing strategies” underscores recognition for your achievements. Volunteer activities, especially those aligned with your professional field, reflect your commitment to community and leadership qualities, e.g., “Volunteered as a financial advisor for non-profit organizations focusing on economic empowerment.” Including hobbies that demonstrate valuable soft skills or technical abilities relevant to the job can also be beneficial, like “Amateur digital artist skilled in using Adobe Illustrator to render artwork with AI” Each of these additions serves to provide a fuller picture of who you are beyond the workplace, potentially resonating with the values and needs of your prospective employer.

Tailoring Your Resume for Each Job Application

Adapting your resume to each job application is essential for capturing the attention of potential employers. Start by scrutinizing the job listing for keywords and phrases that highlight the desired skill sets and responsibilities. Incorporate these terms into your resume, particularly within the professional summary and work experience sections. For example, if the listing emphasizes “innovative problem-solving” and “effective communication,” these attributes should be clearly reflected in your descriptions. By doing so, you demonstrate not only your keen understanding of the job’s demands but also your capacity to meet them. This personalized touch can significantly increase your chances of moving forward in the hiring process, as it suggests a genuine fit between your skills and the employer’s needs.

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June 9, 2024

Exploring the Differences Between Leadership and Management

The concepts of leadership roles and management roles encompass distinct qualities, responsibilities, and impacts on an organization’s culture and success. Understanding the differences between leadership and management is crucial for effective team building, organizational development, and personal career growth.

Defining the Core: Management versus Leadership

Managers focus on the tangible aspects of an organization’s success, such as process efficiency, resource allocation, and procedural adherence. They are the architects of the organization’s infrastructure, meticulously planning and organizing to ensure operational excellence. In contrast, leaders prioritize the intangible elements that drive progress and innovation. They are the catalysts for change, charged with inspiring and motivating their teams towards a shared vision. While a manager’s approach is structured and methodical, aiming to maintain order and consistency, a leader’s approach is dynamic and inspirational, seeking to cultivate an environment where new ideas flourish and employees are motivated to go beyond the status quo.

The Manager’s Domain: Stability, Control, and Execution

Managers are essential in establishing the framework within which teams operate, prioritizing stability, control, and the flawless execution of tasks. Their role involves setting clear goals, designing meticulous plans for achieving these goals, and closely monitoring the progress to ensure objectives are met efficiently. This domain thrives on a manager’s ability to solve problems decisively, make informed decisions, and meticulously manage resources to avoid waste and maximize productivity. By enforcing policies and overseeing the adherence to procedures, managers provide the necessary structure that underpins the functionality and efficiency of their teams. Their focus on the tangible outcomes of organizational activities ensures that operations run smoothly, reinforcing the foundation upon which innovation and growth can be built.

The Leader’s Realm: Vision, Influence, and Change

Leaders embark on a journey to shape the future, wielding vision as their compass and influence as their tool. They champion the potential of what might be, harnessing the collective power of their teams to transform bold ideas into tangible realities. In this realm, creating a culture of trust, open-mindedness, and shared purpose is paramount. Leaders excel in encouraging their teams to step out of their comfort zones, fostering a space where innovation is not just welcomed but celebrated. Their approach to change is proactive and optimistic; they see obstacles not as barriers but as stepping stones for growth and development. By engaging with their teams on a deeper, more personal level, leaders ignite a passion that propels the group forward, making the journey towards achieving the vision a shared endeavor.

Adaptability and Flexibility: The Manager-Leader Spectrum

The interplay between management and leadership skills forms a spectrum where adaptability and flexibility are paramount. Professionals who navigate this spectrum effectively know when to lean into the structured, process-oriented approach of management and when to embrace the visionary, change-centric ethos of leadership. This agility allows them to respond adeptly to varying organizational needs, blending strategic oversight with inspirational guidance as circumstances dictate. Cultivating such versatility involves a deep understanding of one’s own natural tendencies, strengths, and areas for development. It also requires a keen sense of situational awareness to discern when a more managerial or leadership-oriented approach is appropriate. Developing a balance between these two facets, and knowing how to transition smoothly between them, equips individuals to tackle challenges with a comprehensive toolkit, enhancing both personal effectiveness and the overall success of the organization. This dynamic capability underscores the value of viewing management and leadership not as binary opposites but as complementary forces that, when harnessed together, can drive exceptional outcomes.

It is important to note that not every manager is a leader or vice versa, but it is important when cultivating talent within a company to help advance those natural leaders into management positions.

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May 9, 2024

Understanding Hard Skills and Soft Skills in Job Applications

In a job application, two critical elements help you stand out: hard skills and soft skills. How you balance these components can be the difference between securing an interview or having your resume passed over. But what exactly are hard skills and soft skills, and when do you use them?

Defining Hard Skills and Soft Skills

Hard skills are specific and measurable capabilities that are often learned through formal education, training programs, certifications, or practical work experience. These skills are task-oriented and job-specific. For instance, proficiency in a particular software, knowledge of a foreign language, or a degree in a specialized field are all examples of hard skills.

Conversely, soft skills are a set of intangible and less quantifiable attributes. They relate to the way you engage and cooperate with others and are generally applicable across various roles and industries. Communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and leadership traits are typically considered soft skills. These skills reflect your personality, attitude, and emotional intelligence, often influencing how you handle work-related situations and interactions. Despite their subjective nature, soft skills play an integral role in creating a positive and effective work environment.

It’s important to note that while hard skills can be easily demonstrated and validated through degrees, certificates, or work samples, validating soft skills can be more challenging. However, they can be communicated through specific examples or scenarios during job interviews or within your cover letter.

The Importance of Hard Skills on Job Applications

Hard skills hold significant weight in job applications. These demonstrable and technical skills form the bedrock of your ability to execute job-related tasks efficiently. When a company is looking to fill a position, the job posting typically delineates the necessary hard skills. These requirements help hiring managers sift through candidates, ensuring that those selected for an interview possess the technical know-how to meet the job’s demands. For example, a posting for a software developer role might specify proficiency in certain programming languages as mandatory. Such precise requirements underscore the significance of relevant hard skills in qualifying for a job. Remember, hard skills are concrete, teachable, and easily measured, making them an essential metric for employers when evaluating potential candidates. Therefore, in your job application, it is paramount to align your listed hard skills with the ones mentioned in the job description, demonstrating your capability to fulfill the job’s responsibilities effectively.

If you come across a job listing asking for specific proficiencies, include those exact words on your application materials. That way it is easy for hiring managers to spot your experience, but it also takes into account the possibility that AI is reading your materials looking for certain keywords.

The Value of Soft Skills in the Job Market

Soft skills are becoming increasingly crucial in today’s job market. Employers are not only focusing on what you can do (hard skills) but also on how you do it (soft skills). This is because these soft skills often reflect a candidate’s ability to gel with the company culture and function effectively within a team. They can be pivotal in distinguishing a great candidate from a merely good one. For instance, qualities like adaptability can indicate how well a candidate will respond to change, while critical thinking can demonstrate their problem-solving abilities. Emotional intelligence, another essential soft skill, can reveal how effectively a candidate manages interpersonal relationships at work. Indeed, in certain sectors, these soft skills may be deemed even more critical than hard skills. This is because while hard skills can be taught, soft skills are typically inherent and developed over time, making them a valuable asset in any employee.

For remote employees, these skills are extra important because communication and teamwork is a must when working far apart from your coworkers. While these types of skills can be difficult to showcase on application materials, it is a good idea to go to courses or seminars on these topics and list those in your resume.

Balancing Hard and Soft Skills in Job Applications

Striking the right equilibrium between your hard and soft skills in your job application can elevate you as a candidate. Highlighting your proficiency in the required technical skills is a must, but don’t overlook the importance of underscoring your interpersonal abilities. To nail this balance, first, dissect the job description thoroughly. Identify the requisite hard skills and ensure these are clearly presented in your resume. Don’t merely list these skills; provide context on how you’ve applied them in past roles to generate results.

In parallel, your application should project your soft skills. These are best exhibited not on your resume, but in your cover letter and the interview process. Use your cover letter as a platform to weave in stories that illustrate your soft skills in action. Maybe you led a project team through a difficult phase or navigated a challenging customer situation with diplomacy. These anecdotes give employers a glimpse into your character and how you might mesh with their organization.

In the interview, draw upon these stories to exhibit your soft skills. An interview is also an excellent opportunity to demonstrate skills like active listening and effective communication. By marrying your hard and soft skills in this way, your application will portray you as a well-rounded candidate, capable of not just doing the job, but thriving within the company culture.

The Synergy of Hard and Soft Skills

To sum up, possessing a balanced blend of hard and soft skills can dramatically amplify your appeal as a job candidate. Hard skills act as clear evidence of your technical proficiency and your capacity to carry out the specific tasks associated with a role. Simultaneously, soft skills provide a window into your personality, indicating how you may integrate with a team and contribute to a positive work culture. The interplay of these skills creates a compelling combination that has the potential to differentiate you from other applicants.

The convergence of hard and soft skills isn’t just about checking off boxes in a job application; it’s about manifesting your unique value proposition, showcasing not just what you can do, but who you are and how you can add value to the organization. This balance can be the key to not only securing a job, but also to succeeding and advancing in your career.

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March 9, 2024

How to Become a Business Mentor

Navigating the journey to becoming a business mentor can be as rewarding as it is challenging. The role not only offers an opportunity to give back, sharing insights and knowledge gained through years of experience, but it also encourages personal and professional growth. However, becoming a mentor requires more than just a successful business track record. It demands a commitment to developing others, a willingness to share your failures and successes, and the capability to guide mentees through their own unique entrepreneurial journeys.

Understanding the Role and Responsibilities of a Business Mentor

A business mentor embodies the role of a guide, advisor, and supporter, dedicated to the enhancement and development of less experienced business professionals. This relationship, grounded in mutual trust and respect, necessitates confidentiality and a genuine commitment to the mentee’s growth. The essence of mentorship lies in active listening, offering insights drawn from personal experiences, and providing constructive feedback. Rather than dictating actions, a mentor’s task is to encourage self-discovery and the formulation of individual solutions by the mentee. Key responsibilities include assisting in goal setting, promoting a culture of continuous improvement, and being a steadfast source of encouragement. A mentor’s role transcends mere professional advice; it encompasses being a confidante and a champion for the mentee’s aspirations, thereby fostering an environment conducive to learning and growth.

Assessing Your Qualifications and Experience

Embarking on the path to mentorship begins with a deep dive into your own professional journey. It’s essential to inventory your milestones and the obstacles you’ve navigated, alongside the knowledge and wisdom gleaned from those experiences. This introspection isn’t just about tallying your successes; it’s equally about recognizing the resilience and adaptability you’ve demonstrated in the face of challenges. Assessing whether you possess a sincere passion for guiding others is pivotal. This entails being ready to commit your time and energy selflessly to someone else’s development, devoid of any expectations for personal gain. Additionally, it’s crucial to identify the specific domains or sectors where your expertise can provide the greatest impact. The value you bring as a mentor doesn’t solely hinge on professional achievements; it also encompasses the diversity of your experiences, your leadership capabilities, and your ability to empathize and connect on a human level.

Developing Essential Mentorship Skills

To truly excel as a business mentor, it’s crucial to cultivate a set of core competencies that enable meaningful interactions and guidance. Active listening stands at the forefront of these skills, allowing mentors to fully comprehend the challenges and aspirations of their mentees. This pairs seamlessly with empathy, the ability to genuinely understand and share the feelings of another, which fosters a supportive and trusting mentoring relationship. Patience is also paramount, as mentees will learn and progress at their own pace, requiring mentors to adjust their expectations accordingly. Constructive feedback is another cornerstone, offering insights in a manner that is both encouraging and actionable for the mentee. Additionally, mastering the art of posing open-ended questions can stimulate deeper reflection and problem-solving by the mentee, promoting a more profound learning experience. For those looking to sharpen these skills, mentorship training programs and workshops offer valuable opportunities for development, equipping prospective mentors with the tools needed to guide their mentees effectively. Engaging in these educational experiences not only enhances a mentor’s toolkit but also signals a dedication to the mentorship role, paving the way for more impactful and rewarding mentor-mentee relationships.

Building Your Mentorship Network

Cultivating a robust mentorship network is a critical step for aspiring business mentors, as it provides a platform for connecting with potential mentees and engaging with experienced mentors. Initiating this process involves leveraging your existing professional networks and actively participating in communities aligned with your expertise. Consider joining industry-specific groups on social media platforms, attending conferences, and participating in webinars, where you can contribute meaningfully to discussions. Additionally, volunteering for speaking engagements or offering free workshops can elevate your visibility within your industry, making it easier for potential mentees to find you. Engage with mentorship platforms and organizations that facilitate these connections; they often seek seasoned professionals eager to share their knowledge. When networking, prioritize the value of authentic, reciprocal relationships. Express genuine interest in the challenges and successes of others, offering insights and support where possible. This approach not only enriches your network but also establishes you as a trusted, go-to figure in the realm of business mentorship.

Setting Expectations and Establishing Boundaries

Initiating a mentor-mentee relationship on a solid foundation requires clear communication regarding expectations and boundaries. At the beginning of this partnership, it is imperative to outline the objectives of the mentorship, including what both parties hope to achieve. Establishing a schedule for meetings and determining the preferred modes of interaction set the stage for a structured and productive relationship. It’s equally important to address the scope of the mentorship, including the topics and challenges that will be covered, to avoid any potential overreach into areas outside the mentor’s expertise. Confidentiality is a cornerstone of trust; thus, emphasizing the importance of discretion from the outset is essential. Openly discussing these parameters not only prevents future conflicts but also reinforces a mutual commitment to the mentorship process. By setting these guidelines early on, both mentor and mentee can navigate the journey ahead with clarity and confidence, ensuring a beneficial and respectful partnership.

Written by

March 9, 2024

How to Become a Business Mentor

Understanding the Role and Responsibilities of a Business Mentor

Assessing Your Qualifications and Experience

Developing Essential Mentorship Skills

Building Your Mentorship Network

Setting Expectations and Establishing Boundaries

Written by Guest Blogger

August 7, 2023

6 Signs It’s Time to Quit Your Job and How to Resign Gracefully

There comes a time in every working professional’s career when you’ll want to quit your job. Whether you’re unhappy at your current job or you feel like it’s time to move on for a new challenge, you’ll need to resign gracefully.

While adversity can help you become more successful, here are six red flags to look out for in the workplace:

1. You aren’t being treated fairly by your boss or coworkers

If you feel like you’re constantly being passed over for opportunities or are being asked to take on more work than your colleagues without getting recognition for it, it can make for an unpleasant work experience. If you have cause to believe you’re being unfairly treated and regularly pressured to say ‘yes’ in the workplace, then it may be time to move on.

2. Your job no longer challenges you

If you feel like you are no longer making an impact with your work, or that the work itself is no longer interesting or exciting, it may be time to consider quitting your job. If you’ve done everything you could to find new challenging projects and asked your manager about taking on new responsibilities with no success, consider your exit strategy.

3. You feel like your skills aren’t recognized at work

You may start to realize that your skills aren’t being put to good use at your current job, or you aren’t being recognized for your hard work. If this is the case, then it may be time to look for new opportunities where you can develop résumé-worthy skills and grow as a professional.

4. You’ve lost passion and interest in your work

Are you no longer feeling inspired or excited by the projects at your job, or you aren’t seeing any potential for career growth even after discussing the situation with your manager? If this is the case, it may be time to consider quitting and moving on to another company where you can find fulfillment.

5. You don’t enjoy working with the people at the office, from your coworkers to your boss

Is your job negatively impacting your mental health or personal life despite setting professional boundaries? If you’re still dreading going to work even after you’ve changed positions internally or taken on other projects, this is a sign to quit.

6. You feel disconnected from your company’s mission, goals, and values

If you don’t feel like your company is making a positive impact in the world or there seems to be a disconnect between your belief system and what your company stands for, then it may be time to quit. When considering new companies to work for, do your due diligence to find one that aligns better with your values, work ethic, and career goals.

If you’ve already been working on the side, consider turning your side-hustle into your full-time career or starting your own business. Working with a business coach or mentor could provide you with the direction and the support you need to make the plunge.

The good news is, when something doesn’t work out, try seeing it as an opportunity to seize rather than a failure. Finding the right job can take time, so make sure you stay active to boost your morale while you job search.

Why should you write a resignation letter?

Writing a professional resignation letter is key to formally informing your company of your intentions to leave and smoothing out your leaving process. Doing this will also increase your chances of getting recommendation letters and positive reviews during reference checks future hiring managers may conduct.

If you’ve already accepted a job offer while employed and now find yourself needing to inform your current employer that you’re quitting, be sure to respect your contract’s clause on giving advance notice. This could be as little as 2 weeks in advance but could also be a few months.

So before you change your LinkedIn profile to announce your new position, make sure your current employer has received your resignation letter either during a face-to-face meeting or by email (if you’re working remotely).

How to write a graceful resignation letter

When it comes to writing a resignation letter, be sure it’s clear and concise and stick to one page or less. Here are three tips to write a professional resignation letter:

Use professional resignation letter formatting

To ensure a professional formatting, follow these six steps:

Include your name and address at the top of your letter
Left-align the date under your address (this date will officially start your resignation notice period)
List the company address in full
Address your letter to your manager by their formal title along with their last name (it’s acceptable to use their first name if you’re on a first-name basis)

Remember to write out the number of weeks’ notice in full words rather than numbers, like this: “two weeks’ notice”.

Be clear about your intentions

Open your letter clearly by stating your intent to resign as well as the exact date you plan on ending your time at the company. This helps your manager better prepare for the weeks leading up to your end date as well as after you leave.

In the body of your letter, you can provide reasons behind your resignation. Although this is optional, it can be useful and appreciated, especially if you’re on good terms with your boss.

End on a positive note

If you do decide to share your reasons for leaving, be sure to keep a positive attitude. If you’re leaving because you’re unhappy with the management or your coworkers, it’s best to selectively omit this from your letter, even if these are legitimate reasons for leaving your job.

You should always stay professional and thank your manager for the opportunities you’ve had at the company. Express gratitude for the opportunities you’ve had in the past to grow and develop yourself during your time there.

Dominique Vatin is a Staff Writer and Resident Career Expert at Resume Genius, where she writes about everything from how to make a resume to acing your next interview. When she isn’t helping job seekers find higher-paying, more fulfilling work opportunities, you can find her whipping up various cakes at home or planning her next hiking adventure.

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July 24, 2023

4 Reasons You Haven’t Landed a Job Yet (and How to Fix Them)

Are you a job seeker who is feeling frustrated about not getting job offers? If so, you’re not alone. Many job seekers struggle to get their foot in the door and land their dream job. The good news is, there are a few common reasons why you may not have had success yet, and there are strategies you can use to fix them.

1) Customize Your Cover Letter

Your cover letter is your first opportunity to impress a potential employer. If it’s not up to par, your chances of getting called in for an interview significantly decrease. If your cover letter sounds like a template that you copied and pasted, the hiring manager is likely to toss it aside. Instead, tailor your cover letter to the company and position you’re applying for. Show that you’ve done your research and understand the job duties and mission of the company.

A cover letter should be concise and to the point, highlighting your relevant skills and experience. Aim for a cover letter that is one page or less. Take the time to proofread your letter multiple times and have someone else review it as well. It’s important to present yourself as a detail-oriented candidate. And while it’s important to showcase your skills and experience, your cover letter should also address the needs and interests of the company. Highlight how your experience and abilities can benefit the organization and its goals.

2) Clean Up Your Resume

Your resume is essentially your ticket to securing a job interview. If you’re not getting any calls or email responses after sending out your applications, it may be time to take a closer look at your resume. One common mistake job seekers make is submitting a generic resume for all job applications. Your resume should highlight relevant experience and skills specific to the jobs you are applying for. This may mean that you spend some time customizing your resume to address the specific experience and skills requested in the job post. It may take some extra effort but will definitely increase your chances of being considered for the position.

However, don’t just list your responsibilities – provide quantifiable examples of how you added value to your previous roles. This could include increased sales, improved efficiency, or successful project outcomes. Showcasing your achievements gives hiring managers a clear understanding of the positive impact you can have on their organization. Ensure your resume is easy to read, with clear headings and bullet points.

3) Brush Up On Your Interview Skills

You might have a fantastic cover letter and an impressive resume, but if your interview skills are poor, it could be the reason why you haven’t landed a job yet. An interview is your chance to make a good impression on the hiring manager, show your enthusiasm for the role, and prove that you are the right candidate for the job. Going to an interview without researching the company and the role can be a deal breaker. It shows that you are not serious about the job, and you have not put in the effort to understand the company’s values, culture, and expectations.

Communication is key in any job, and it is essential during an interview. You should be able to articulate your thoughts clearly, listen attentively, and respond appropriately. If you struggle to communicate effectively during an interview, practice with a friend or family member beforehand, or consider taking a public speaking or communication class. An interview is also an opportunity to show your passion for the job and the company. If you appear disinterested or unenthusiastic, the interviewer will assume that you are not excited about the role. Show your enthusiasm by asking questions, sharing your ideas, and highlighting your skills and experience.

4) Giving Up Too Quickly

It’s important to keep in mind that the job search process can take time, and rejection is often a part of the process. It can be discouraging to not hear back from employers or to receive rejection after rejection, but it’s important to remember that every “no” brings you one step closer to a “yes.” Instead of giving up, job seekers should use each rejection as an opportunity to reflect on what they can do differently in their job search.

One common mistake that job seekers make is not following up with employers after an interview. Sending a thank you email or note can not only show your appreciation for their time, but it can also remind them of your interest in the position. Also, don’t just limit your job search to only one or two companies or job titles. Expanding your job search to other companies or job titles that align with your skills and experience can increase your chances of finding the right job.

It’s important to remember that the job search process is not easy, but persistence and patience are key. Don’t give up too quickly – keep applying, following up, and expanding your job search until you land your dream job.

If you have reviewed your information and practiced for interviews but still find yourself struggling, then we are here to help! Work with our HR experts to review all of your application materials and coach you through some common interview questions in our job seeker training.

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May 22, 2023

What Skills to Highlight on Your Résumé

No matter where you are in your career, deciding which skills to list on a résumé can be tricky. After all, you have so many talents, which ones should be included in job applications? If you are looking to reenter the workforce after being a stay-at-home parent full-time, there are actually skills you used to raise your children that can go on your résumé. If you are looking to make a career change, then you most likely have a general idea of which skills to list, but this blog can be a good refresher for you!

The Basics

It is important to tailor your skill listed on your job application materials for each position you apply to. Of course, there are some core skills that are good to keep from application to application such as time management, being organized, and the ability to work independently. However, employers are also looking for extremely detailed talents that you might have. For example, if you have experience with Microsoft Excel, that should be listed. Depending on how you want to set up your résumé, you can either just list what you have experience in such as Microsoft Excel, WordPress, etc., or you can also include the number of years of experience you have. Keep in mind, employers want to be able to look at your job application and quickly determine what your skills are. If you already have lots of text on your résumé making it look crowded, stick with listing just the skills.

Reentering the Workforce

If you are reentering the workforce, you may feel lost as to what skills to put down in a job application. Sometimes, it can seem like you do not have talents to include, especially if you have been out of the workforce for an extended period of time. However, raising kids requires lots of wonderful skills that can easily be transferred to the workplace. Some talents include: time management, administering schedules, meeting deadlines, multitasking, management, and more! If there is room on your application, list some details about how you gained these skills. Include this in your cover letter too, where you have more room to elaborate on how you will use those talents in a job.

Career Changes

If you are making a career change — whether you are moving up the corporate ladder or trying something new — you can call on your past experience to list on your résumé. It helps to be very specific. For example, if you managed a team, list that as a skill and include the size of the team, length of time you managed them, and if it was an international team, it’s good to include that too! Keep in mind that you need to tailor your experience based on the job you are applying for, so on one application you might list team management of a team of ten, and on another application you might mention that team was international so you have experience managing different time zones.

Keywords

For more guidance, look at the job listing itself. What keywords does the company use? Do they mention someone who is organized, or do they ask if you have experience with project management software like Asana? Use the description to write your résumé! Use important phrases that you notice repeated in the description to highlight your own experience. Not only does this help companies fit your experience into what they are looking for, but it also shows that you have a good grasp of the job description — and that you spent time truly reading it!

If you need help figuring out what to list on your job application, chat with our advisors as part of our Job Seeker Advisor Services. An HR expert can guide you through creating the perfect résumé for your dream position.

Do you have more tips you want to share with us on what skills you choose to put on your job application? Let us know!

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What Exactly Should Go on Your Resume?

Exploring the Differences Between Leadership and Management

Understanding Hard Skills and Soft Skills in Job Applications

How to Become a Business Mentor

How to Become a Business Mentor

6 Signs It’s Time to Quit Your Job and How to Resign Gracefully

4 Reasons You Haven’t Landed a Job Yet (and How to Fix Them)

What Skills to Highlight on Your Résumé

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