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Resume Tips for the Experienced Candidate

Whereas a new grad’s resume is often more general in nature, your resume should be a showcase of your track record, demonstrating to a potential employer what you can “bring to the table.” Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Give a summary, not an objective. Specify three or four skills that match the employer’s needs. These highlights can appear in a short paragraph or quick “bullet” format.

Lead with experience, not education (the exact opposite of what a new graduate should do).

List accomplishments, not just responsibilities. Don’t just tell employers what you did; tell them the outcome. For example: “Proposed and tracked $500,000 annual departmental budget. Only division to meet deadlines and operate within budget during past three years.” Such a statement reveals your problem-solving abilities.

List activities that relate directly to your self-improvement efforts, e.g., continuing education, and the position you’re seeking. Don’t include hobbies.

Determine your resume’s length based on accomplishments. An experienced candidate often has enough relevant accomplishments to expand his or her resume to a second page. That does not, however, give you license to spell out every award, membership, or accomplishment in your resume. You don’t want to dilute the focus.

Consider listing and describing all of your accomplishments when developing the resume. Tailor each resume to include the accomplishments that relate to a particular employer’s needs.

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