How often should I update my resume?

Updating your resume is not that easy if you have not visited it for quite some time or did not create one for a long time. Just in case you have to make some updates, it will be difficult for you to put the details that you should add to your resume. So, how often should your resume be updated?

When to update your resume?
 
Keep in mind that changes are the only constant thing in the world, and so is your job. Assume that you might need to send a resume to some employers; however, you have no updated resume yet. The worst thing that might happen is it would take time for you to update one and submit it to the employers, which could end up in an unsuccessful job opportunity.
 
Update your resume when you are pursuing new opportunities in your career. For example, you received promotions, completed training and certifications, earned a license, or accomplished a degree. You can also add your newly acquired knowledge, including technical skills or any software program you learned, which could be valuable to another job opportunity.
 
Make updates on your resume when there is outdated information. If you are a high school graduate and were able to continue your education that just finished, then make time to update your resume by adding your latest degree and removing your high school details. Another example is your earlier achievements or jobs, as well as the oldest organizations you joined. Just maintain the section for your work experience for the last ten years and add professional experiences beyond 10 years to the Additional Experience section
 
What needs to add to your resume?
 
Your resume should have an updated summary of qualifications that can be in paragraph or bulleted format. It should list your knowledge, skills, and abilities that would be relevant to the prospective job. Be as specific as possible; do not be too generic. Your summary would be more impressive if it is personalized.
 
Keep your work or professional experience updated too! As soon as you started with your new job or responsibilities, update your resume immediately to ensure you would not miss any essential details. Take into consideration adding the strongest and related information that would help employers figure out your professional background.
 
The professional development section has to be updated as well. As soon as you complete your latest certification or training, do not forget to update it on your resume. In case those are already outdated like it was already 15 o 20 years ago, it seems that you need to take it away from your resume. Place only the most updated one.
 
Your education always needs to be updated on your resume with the degree that you have obtained. It can also include coursework or certificates from an accredited institution. These details will showcase your recently attained knowledge about another field.
 
Accomplishments are important details that you should add to your resume. Ensure to take note of your achievements since they are valuable additions to your resume; they would demonstrate your flexibility and your reliability in everything you do.
 
Volunteer experience or activities can be additional information that would showcase your ability to do other tasks despite a busy schedule. Add your latest and notable volunteer experience or activities to your current or target job.
 
Updating your resume at least two times a year could not be enough because you might miss including the details necessary to enhance the look of your application document. Make it as frequent as possible, or each time you have new things to add. However, if it is going to be a challenge for you to update your resume, you can always rely on a professional resume writer to ask for help. It is a reasonable investment as long as quality work is there.

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To learn more about how often should you update your resume,  schedule a call today to speak with one of our career experts. 
 
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