As the year winds down, it’s a time of reflection and renewal. And for some, that means embarking on a new career journey. Whether you’re aiming to take on a fresh career challenge or are seeking a temporary or part-time opportunity to supplement your income, your resume is your ticket to success. To learn about who is hiring and what they are looking for when it comes to experience, connect with an employment expert at Staffing Network.
December Is the Perfect Time for a Resume Refresh
More than a time of festive gatherings, December is a strategic time to prepare for the hiring surge of January and February. Many companies review their budgets and finalize new job openings at the start of the year.
Additionally, seasonal gigs, temporary assignments, and year-end projects often provide new experiences and skills that can strengthen your qualifications. Highlighting these accomplishments can give your resume a competitive edge.
If your resume hasn’t been looked over for a while, it’s time to revisit it with a fresh perspective. Here are key strategies to shine up your resume so you’ll stand out.
- Showcase new skills. Over the past year, you may have picked up valuable skills through temporary roles or professional development opportunities like workshops or online courses. Employers value versatility and a willingness to learn, so include communication skills improvements and other areas of growth.
- Quantify achievements. Numbers make an impact. Wherever possible, outline measurable results to showcase your effectiveness. So, instead of stating that you managed inventory for a retail store in November, elevate that description with a number, such as you oversaw a 15% increase in sales during the holiday season.
- Update the layout. A modern, clean resume layout can make a strong first impression. Use professional fonts, consistent formatting, and clear sections for readability. Ensure your contact information is up-to-date, including your online portfolios and profiles, if applicable.
Also, remember to tailor your resume when you are ready to start applying for positions. Customize the information by aligning your skills and experiences with the job description. Highlight keywords from the job posting and demonstrate how your background makes you the ideal candidate.
Up Your Resume with Temporary Assignments
Temporary and seasonal roles often fly under the radar when job seekers craft their resumes. Yet, these experiences can provide unique opportunities to showcase adaptability, teamwork, and skill acquisition.
Seasonal positions are opportunities to highlight customer interaction, multitasking, and high-pressure problem-solving. Plus, when you work temporary assignments or participate in volunteer work, you can list those experiences while emphasizing your ability to step into diverse roles and meet organizational needs efficiently.
As you warm up your resume, take time to reflect on your career aspirations, too. By updating your resume, you’ll be well-positioned to make your goals a reality.
Do you want to take stock of your professional journey as the year comes to a close? Staffing Network, a full-service staffing and recruiting firm that specializes in light/skilled industrial, engineering, and operations professionals. Connect with Staffing Network today.
