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Keeping Your Executive Resume
Current Many people do not
like the idea of keeping their resume up-to-date, and for a number of
reasons. It may require that you admit that your job is not as secure as
you wish; it may seem like too much of a chore, it may seem too difficult,
or it could just be that you don't feel you have the time. However,
maintaining a current executive resume, particularly for those in
executive careers, is a wise decision for a number of reasons.
Yes, the job market is volatile, and even though no one likes to think
about it, your job may not be as secure as you believe. Having a current
resume is like having an insurance policy; should the worst happen, you'll
be prepared. When unexpected layoffs, mergers, or changes in job functions
occur, the stress compounds when it comes to updating that resume. For
those who keep a current file, however, that stress can be greatly
reduced, allowing you to focus on executive jobs rather than your
paperwork.
Another, more positive reason to keep a current resume is that you never
know when an opportunity may present itself. When you have reached the
executive level, chances are much greater that an executive recruiter or
another firm will call. If it's one of those opportunities that is too
good to pass up (or at least investigate), having an updated resume is a
distinct advantage. The option may be fleeting, and your competition may
not be as savvy as you. While they struggle to update their resume, you
can hand over an executive package complete with resume, biography, and
sample projects summarizing your executive career.
Time can definitely be a problem, so consider keeping a file strictly for
your resume and portfolio. Even details from the most impressive
accomplishments can fade with time. As you complete projects, make a few
notes, copy the numbers, and add the information to your file. As you
receive positive feedback from senior management, customers, board
members, or shareholders, keep records of this information as well. A
quality quote or recommendation from a superior can sometimes spice up a
resume or executive biography perfectly.
Hiring a professional for resume writing or executive coaching can also be
a great time saver, particularly if you're one of the many people who feel
intimidated by the resume writing process. A professional resume writer
and career coach will have a good understanding of your industry and know
the best keywords and phrases to include, while still tailoring your
resume to your unique situation. When time is a factor, many will be able
to provide a fast turnaround.
Regardless of whether or not you enlist the help of a professional, it's a
good idea to keep your resume file current. Even the best professional
will not be able to pull your accomplishments out of the air--you need to
keep track of the important information. A good resume will quantify
achievements, so pay particular attention to the numbers and other
quantifiers. How much money did you save? Did you considerably shorten a
process? Remember that time save equals money saved. Keep track of sales
figures as well--if the company realized a significant increase in profit
during your executive tenure, you'll want to make note of that as well!
Finally, another good reason to keep your executive resume current is that
it keeps your achievements fresh in your mind. As a business professional,
you understand the importance of networking, for both yourself and your
company. Use your updated resume to create a mini sales pitch that use can
use as needed to sell yourself as an executive professional and to sell
your company. You never know when an opportunity to promote yourself and
your business will present itself. Stay ahead of the competition and be
prepared.
Written By: Teena Rose
Read more articles from Teena Rose
by visiting
http://www.resumebycprw.com/resume_articles.htm |
Writers
Profile
Teena Rose
is a columnist,
public speaker, and
certified/published resume writer with Resume to Referral [http://www.resumebycprw.com].
She’s authored several books, including "20-Minute
Cover Letter Fixer" and "Cracking
the Code to Pharmaceutical Sales."
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