The Resume Rewrite: When and Why, You Should Update Your Resume

Your resume is one of the most important tools in your job-search arsenal. Whether you're looking for a new job or just want to stay prepared for future opportunities, regularly updating your resume is a smart move. In this post, we’ll explore why and when you should consider giving your resume a thorough rewrite.

Why You Should Update Your Resume

1. To Reflect Your Career Progression

Over time, you gain new skills, experiences, and qualifications. If you haven’t updated your resume in a while, it’s likely that it no longer accurately represents your capabilities or accomplishments. Regularly updating your resume ensures that you're showcasing your most recent achievements.

For instance, if you’ve taken on a leadership role, completed additional certifications, or developed expertise in a new area, these updates should be reflected on your resume. Employers want to see what you’ve accomplished since your last job, and it helps position you as a valuable candidate for future roles.

2. To Tailor for New Job Opportunities

Job markets are dynamic, and the skills and qualifications employers are seeking can change over time. When you update your resume, it gives you the chance to adjust your experience and skills to match the latest industry trends and specific job requirements. For example, a shift towards more remote work or a growing emphasis on digital skills might require you to highlight your proficiency in new technologies or software.

3. To Keep Up with Resume Trends

The way resumes are evaluated is always evolving. Many companies now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes before a human even lays eyes on them. This means your resume needs to be optimised for these systems, with keywords and formatting that allow it to get through the filter. Rewriting your resume gives you the chance to ensure that it's ATS-friendly and that your skills and experience are highlighted in the best possible way.

4. When You're Eyeing a Career Change

If you're considering a career shift, your resume will need a complete overhaul. Changing industries or roles means that the skills you’ve acquired may not directly translate. However, a well-crafted resume rewrite can help you highlight transferable skills and experience that make you an attractive candidate for a new role. A fresh approach to your resume allows you to tailor it specifically to the new job you're aiming for, increasing your chances of landing interviews.

5. To Address Gaps or Red Flags

If you've experienced a period of unemployment or had a less-than-ideal job, a resume rewrite can help you address those gaps or turn potential red flags into positives. For example, if you've had a career break to care for family or travel, you can frame this as a period of personal growth or skill development. A thoughtful rewrite will allow you to position these experiences in a way that works to your advantage.

When to Update Your Resume

1. After a Promotion or New Job

Every time you get promoted or start a new role, it’s time to update your resume. Be sure to include your new responsibilities, any new skills you’ve gained, and any projects you've worked on. This is an easy way to ensure your resume always reflects your most current experience.

2. When You Gain New Qualifications or Skills

Completing a new qualification, such as a degree, certification, or training program, should be included on your resume. Don’t forget to update your skills section as well, particularly if you’ve acquired new technical or soft skills. This keeps your resume current and aligned with the evolving requirements of your industry.

3. When You're Actively Job-Hunting

If you’re actively looking for a new job, it’s crucial to update your resume before applying. Tailor it to suit the types of positions you're interested in, making sure it highlights your most relevant experience and skills. It’s always a good idea to revise your resume for each job application to increase your chances of getting noticed by employers.

4. When You’re Considering a Career Shift or Moving Industries

If you're looking to change industries or pursue a different career path, your resume will likely need a major overhaul. This includes reworking your work experience to highlight transferable skills, adding new qualifications, and potentially even altering your resume’s format to align with industry standards. Make sure the new version of your resume speaks directly to the role or field you’re aiming for.

5. After a Major Personal Achievement or Contribution

Did you just complete a major project, receive an award, or contribute significantly to a team initiative? Adding those details to your resume can help you stand out from other candidates. Personal achievements, especially those that demonstrate leadership or problem-solving skills, show that you're committed and have tangible outcomes to back up your claims.

Have you recently updated your resume? Or are you planning to rewrite it soon? If you need assistance creating an impactful resume and cover letter, contact Adrienna, your Perth Resume Writing Specialist, at 0423 686 904 or email hello@adriennasresumes.com