If you’ve been in the job market for any length of time, it can get a little confusing what to include in your resume. You don’t want to burden your hiring manager with unnecessary information. You also don’t want to bury the most relevant and important information within a resume. So being thoughtful with what to include is important. If you’re wondering how far your resume should date back, we have the answers for you!
Start with this rule of thumb
When it comes to how far back you should include work experience on your resume, the general rule of thumb is to list the last 10-15 years of your career history. This is the time frame that is most relevant to potential employers and will provide them with the most accurate picture of your skills and experience. However, if you have experience that is particularly relevant to the job you are applying for, even if it is from more than 15 years ago, you may want to include it on your resume.
Thinking outside the resume box
Depending on the jobs you’ve had over the years, and the role you are applying to, you might consider not listing your jobs in chronological order.
If you have a lot of experience in your field, you may want to consider using a functional resume format, which focuses on your skills and abilities rather than your work history. This can be a good option if you have gaps in your employment history or if you are looking to make a career change. However, it is generally best to avoid using a functional resume unless you have a specific reason for doing so, as most employers prefer the chronological format.
The best tips for great resumes
A great resume is less about how long you have been working or how many jobs you have had, and more about what you’ve done with the opportunities you have been given. To make sure your resume helps you stand out, follow these three pro tips.
- Tailor your resume to the job you’re applying for. Make sure to highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position.
- Keep your resume concise and easy to read. Use clear headings and bullet points to make it easier for the reader to quickly scan and extract important information.
- Proofread your resume carefully to ensure that it is free of errors and typos. These can be distracting to the reader and can make you appear careless or unprofessional.
Overall, the most important thing is to make sure your resume accurately reflects your skills and experience and showcases you in the best possible light.
For more tips on how to advance your career no matter how many pages there are in your resume, connect with the staffing experts at Williams Industrial today.
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